The American School in London is an exceptional independent, college-preparatory day school nestled in the heart of London.

This prestigious institution offers a world-class American education to a diverse international student body from pre-kindergarten through twelfth grade.

Committed to fostering academic excellence and personal growth, the school encourages students to embrace innovation, individuality, and authentic learning experiences.

By cultivating a supportive and challenging environment, The American School in London empowers students to become confident, compassionate, and globally minded citizens ready to make a positive impact on the world.

The American School in London History

The American School in London (ASL) traces its roots back to 1951 when journalist Stephen L. Eckard founded the school in his Knightsbridge flat.

What began as a small gathering of 13 students quickly grew into a thriving institution, expanding to multiple locations in London.

Over the decades, ASL has witnessed significant milestones, including the construction of a state-of-the-art campus with modern facilities.

The school's commitment to academic excellence, coupled with its dedication to fostering global citizenship, has solidified its reputation as a premier educational institution in the heart of London.

Education at ASL
 

The American School in London (ASL) is committed to providing a rigorous, yet joyful, American education.

The school's curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, creativity, and a global perspective.

The focus is on student-centered learning, with a strong emphasis on inquiry-based learning, problem-solving, and experiential education.

Curriculum Overview

ASL offers a traditional American curriculum, preparing students for college and university admission.

The curriculum is aligned with Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Mathematics, as well as Next Generation Science Standards and AERO Social Studies standards.

Key Features of the Curriculum:

• Early Years (K1-K2): A Reggio Emilia-inspired approach focuses on child-led exploration, creativity, and social-emotional development.
• Lower School (Grades 1-4): Inquiry-based learning is used to engage students in meaningful projects and investigations.
• Middle School (Grades 5-8): A balanced curriculum emphasizes core subjects, electives, and extracurricular activities. The focus is on developing strong academic skills, critical thinking, and social-emotional competencies.
• High School (Grades 9-12): A rigorous college-preparatory program offers a wide range of Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Students are encouraged to pursue their passions and explore their interests through electives and extracurricular activities.

Teaching Methodology

ASL employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles. These methods include:

• Direct Instruction: Teachers present information and concepts to students.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: Students actively investigate questions and problems.
• Project-Based Learning: Students work collaboratively on long-term projects.
• Experiential Learning: Students learn through hands-on experiences and real-world applications.
• Technology Integration: Technology is used to enhance learning and facilitate communication.

Home Learning

ASL believes in a balanced approach to learning, which includes time for both schoolwork and family time. The school does not assign traditional homework to lower school students. Instead, they encourage students to engage in reading, creative play, and exploring their interests.

A Day School

The American School in London is a day school, meaning students commute to and from school daily.

 The school does not offer boarding facilities on campus. This is common for schools located in urban areas like London, where students often reside nearby and can easily travel to and from school.

Facilities of ASL

The American School in London (ASL) offers a variety of facilities to support its students' educational and extracurricular activities. Here's a breakdown of the key areas:

Arts:

• Music: Separate programs for Lower School (K1-4), Middle School (5-8), and High School (9-12). Instruments offered include flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, percussion, violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
• Drama: Encourages self-expression through role play, improvisation, and puppetry. Lower School students participate in a stage performance in Grade 4. Middle School offers drama as an elective. High School program focuses on refining technical skills and preparing students for professional productions and festivals.
• Visual Arts:
  • Lower School (K1-4): Explores line, shape, texture, and color through observation and classroom curriculum. Integrates art activities with Spanish vocabulary for colors, numbers, greetings, and the body.
  • Middle School (5-8): Focuses on creativity using observation and imagination. Explores concepts like composition, color theory, design, and perspective. Elective options include Ceramics, Digital Photography, Mixed Media Art, Sculpture, and Wearable Art.
  • High School: Provides a foundation in studio habits, art practices, and visual language. Offers a variety of courses for students to explore their artistic interests and develop their skills.

Athletics:

• Provides co-curricular opportunities for students to participate in various sports and develop transferable skills like teamwork and good sportsmanship.
• Offers separate programs for Lower School (after-school program), Middle School (after-school program), and High School (inter-scholastic athletics).

Other Facilities:

• Lower School After-School Program: Provides an opportunity for social development through educational activities, sports, and hobbies in a safe environment.
• Middle School After-School Program: Offers a variety of activities for students to explore their interests and passions.
• Aquatics & Fitness Center: Features a 25-meter swimming pool for learn-to-swim programs, beginner and advanced swim training, and recreational swimming.
• Canons Park: ASL's sports playing fields located a short tube ride away from the school. Offers facilities for baseball, rugby, softball, and soccer.
• The School Center for Education and the Arts: A flexible teaching and performance space used for assemblies, speaker series events, and performing arts productions.

Additionally, the school offers:

• High School Clubs: Over 80 student-led clubs covering various academic, cultural, political, service-oriented, and athletic interests.
• Middle School Lunch Groups: Provide opportunities for students to connect with peers who share similar interests during their lunch break. Options include Student Council, Dance Choreography, Model UN, Math Art, Green Team, and many more.

Application Process

Application Process Overview

The American School in London (ASL) is a prestigious institution with a rigorous academic curriculum.

To apply, families should start by completing an inquiry form to create an account in the school's admissions portal.

Key Steps in the Application Process:

1. Application Submission:
   • Deadline: Applications for the upcoming academic year are typically due by January 15th.
   • Required Documents:
     • Completed application form
     • Tuition deposit
     • School records (transcripts or report cards)
     • Teacher recommendations
     • Standardized test scores (for middle and high school applicants)
     • Applicant questionnaire
     • Visa and residency documentation (for international students)
2. Standardized Testing:
   • Middle and high school applicants must submit scores from one of the following standardized tests:
     • ISEE
     • SSAT
     • PSAT
     • SAT
     • ACT
     • MAP/NWEA
     • ERB CTP
3. Open Houses and Campus Visits:
   • ASL offers open house events throughout the year to give prospective families a firsthand look at the school.
   • Individual tours can also be arranged for families who cannot attend an open house.
4. Admissions Decisions:
   • Decisions are typically communicated by the end of February.
   • Delayed decisions or conditional offers may occur if additional information is needed.

Important Considerations for International Students

• Visa and Residency: International students must have the right to enter, live, and study in the UK.
• Visa Sponsorship: ASL does not provide student visa sponsorship or Certificates of Acceptance of Studies (CAS). Families are responsible for obtaining the necessary visas.

Fees and Financial Aid

• Tuition Fees: Tuition varies by grade level and is typically paid in two installments.
• Additional Fees: There may be additional fees for textbooks, lab fees, field trips, and specific support programs.
• Tuition Deposit: A non-refundable deposit is required upon acceptance or re-enrollment.
• Financial Aid: Limited financial aid is available to qualified students.