The American School in London

ASL defines a Portrait of a Learner with Thinker, Explorer, Collaborator, Innovator and Communicator. The school cares about well-being and teaches respect, responsibility, kindness and integrity, along with the Courage to Act. These traits are evident in daily life across classrooms, Canons Park, hallways, recess and school events. The approach emphasizes critical and creative thinking, collaboration, communication and empathy as core dispositions for learning. Students are encouraged to act with courage to improve their community and the world.

The specific learning differences program (SLD) provides support for students with mild to moderate learning differences that require targeted intervention. Support uses diverse intervention tools to help students work successfully within the mainstream curriculum. SLD aims to develop a growth mindset and resilience, build self-advocacy, confidence and independence, and provide direct instruction with teachers in a collaborative, individualized approach. Progress is monitored through an annual individual education plan (AIEP) developed with the student, family, advisor and other providers as appropriate. Testing accommodations may be provided based on evaluations.

The English as an additional language (EAL) program provides practice and application of key content and language concepts and promotes interactions with peers and teachers. It offers opportunities to use English while reading, writing, listening and speaking in new contexts. The EAL environment respects individual learning preferences, including in-class and group settings, while pushing for immersion in all aspects of English language learning. The program supports multilingual children, recognizes and celebrates home languages, and values the cultural and linguistic experiences of all students. It is guided by WIDA language standards and practices.

The K-12 Counseling program is a diverse team of mental health professionals who provide short-term, solution-focused support and classroom lessons on health and social-emotional development. Counselors support students' personal and social well-being, emotional needs and school-life balance, offering a safe, confidential space for discussion and problem-solving. They provide parent/guardian workshops on topics such as positive family dynamics and healthy adjustments for major life changes. Students may refer themselves or be referred, and counselors can assist with referrals for external therapy when needed. Two counselors support each division and all counselors are part of ASL's safeguarding team.

ASL commits to safeguarding and child protection, aiming to challenge students to develop their full intellectual, social, emotional and physical potential within a caring framework. The school keeps students free from fear of abuse or neglect and enables active participation in learning. All ASL employees are required to report suspected abuse or neglect to designated personnel who liaise with the safeguarding lead and, when needed, with local Children's Services. The safeguarding framework reflects UK law and guidance. If someone cannot report to staff, they can contact the NSPCC for advice.