International Expansion in Education with Dr. Mark Abell

Dr. Mark Abell joins host Monde Nkosi to unpack the dynamics of international expansion in education. Mark explains why and how schools and universities venture abroad, highlighting the differences between for-profit and non-profit models and the key factors that separate successful expansions from failed ones. Mark also shares some personal reflections on his journey and pays a heartfelt tribute to teachers who have profoundly shaped his life.



Mark is a highly regarded international lawyer with over 40 years’ experience in international education. He currently acts as a consultant to a number of well-known educational institutions on the development and implementation of their international expansion strategies. Until 2022, Mark was Global Head of International Education and Franchising at the global law firm Bird & Bird. He has advised over 80 independent schools on international expansion including the likes of Westminster, North London Collegiate, Wellington College and Dulwich; as well as universities such as Oxford, Cambridge and Surrey. Mark has authored 13 books, including Educational Institutions – A Legal and Regulatory Handbook for Setting Up Overseas. Mark holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Southampton and a PhD from the University of London. Watch on YouTube