Secondary School

It is with great pleasure that I and Scott Terry (Assistant Principal) welcome you to the UAS Secondary School.

 The UAS community should be very proud of what has been achieved in the relatively short time since the doors of the school were first opened in September 2005. The dedicated teachers have created a curriculum that is designed to develop students who are critical thinkers, caring individuals and responsible global citizens. The teachers foster a culture of life-long learning. Our teaching and learning model reflects best practice and prepares students for the models used in modern accredited universities throughout the world. At all grade levels we develop in our students the UAS/IB Student Learner Profile attributes.

In Grades 7-9 our curriculum is inquiry-based and reflects the latest educational research on concept-based learning and teaching. It currently reflects the New York Standards. In the next two years we aim to migrate to the US Common Core Standards being adopted by most states in the US. Units are developed with concepts and 'big questions' in mind. In all academic subjects a wide variety of resources are used to enrich the learning experience, along with textbooks and ICT integration for support. Within the classroom students solve difficult challenges, apply new information, complete difficult processes and justify positions they take. The students' learning involves active, interactive, purposeful and meaningful engagement within a supportive context. Our program offers the link between the IBPYP (International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme) in the Elementary School and the IBDP in grades 11 and 12.

We promote project and problem-based learning. Inquiry-based learning approaches require students to think, collaborate, problem solve, and build new knowledge to promote student inquiry, discussions, teamwork and an understanding of multidisciplinary concepts. They also appeal to the adolescent brain's need for emotional engagement, assistance and extension, and intellectual stimulation.

Our Grade 10 program is designed as a preparatory year for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) of grades 11-12.

At UAS we aim to develop the intellectual, physical, and social wellbeing of students. Our curriculum is wide, and we offer a variety of extracurricular activities, including sporting and cultural clubs, such as Model United Nations (MUN), Basketball, Volleyball, experiential and Service Trips, etc.

Our students have many opportunities for leadership through Student Council, fundraising events, sporting teams, and the creative arts. Our Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) is very active and works tirelessly to support our school community.

Mr Terry and I welcome all new and returning students and families to UAS.

Ms. Simone Sebban                                                 Scott Terry                                                

Secondary Principal                                               Assistant Principal