Learning Enrichment After-School Programme (LEAP)
The Learning Enrichment After-School Programme (LEAP) has been running at Universal American School since September 2019, offering an extended learning day for students from Elementary through Grade 6.
LEAP is designed to support students beyond the school timetable through a personalised approach that combines learning, enrichment, activity, and care.
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What LEAP offers
LEAP is a bespoke after-school programme that allows students to take part in sports and activities, receive individual academic support, build relationships, and enjoy structured time in a familiar school environment. The programme is built around the idea of a personalised extended day, shaped by each student’s needs and goals. Through close collaboration with parents and homeroom teachers, learning goals are agreed and meaningful experiences are planned to support each child. Students may be supported academically, challenged further, or guided in specific subject areas depending on individual need. | Learn. Enrich. Activate. Personalise. |
| Personalised Learning and Support |
A defining feature of LEAP is its personalised approach. Parents share goals for their child, which are then developed together with the student, homeroom teacher, and LEAP teacher. LEAP staff work closely with classroom teachers to ensure continuity and alignment with each student’s learning needs. This collaboration allows LEAP teachers to respond quickly to academic, emotional, or social needs. If a student has had a difficult day, this information is shared so that appropriate support can be provided during the LEAP session. |
| Social development and wellbeing |
LEAP provides a supportive setting for students who benefit from additional help with social skills and building friendships. The programme creates a safe and comfortable environment where students can communicate, play, and develop positive relationships with peers across year groups. Students in PreK through Grade 6 learn and play together, forming strong cross-age connections that contribute to a sense of belonging. |
| Physical activity and balance |
Physical activity is an important part of LEAP. Students are encouraged to stay active through sports and movement-based learning rather than spending extended time on screens after school. This supports overall wellbeing while allowing students to enjoy time with friends in a different setting. |
| Leadership, passion projects, and extended learning |
LEAP also creates opportunities for older students to act as role models. Some Grade 12 students support learning activities, including music, allowing younger students to learn from peers while older students develop leadership skills. Students are also given time to work on Passion Projects, which are investigative, student-driven projects based on individual interests. These projects allow students to research, plan, and design learning around topics they care about, such as space, science, or creative pursuits. LEAP teachers facilitate project-based learning, supporting research and reflection over time. |
| Supporting families |
LEAP offers added flexibility for families who require a longer school day. The programme can be adapted to support working parents while also helping families maintain quality time at home, without additional academic pressure in the evenings. Many students return to LEAP each year, reflecting positive experiences and sustained engagement. |
Benefits of LEAP
Research shows that participation in structured after-school programmes supports improvement in:
- academic achievement
- social and emotional development
- overall health and wellbeing
LEAP supports this by:
- strengthening academic, social, and emotional foundations
- building endurance for learning
- engaging students in activities that complement classroom learning
Examples include long-term STEAM projects, one-to-one music and language support, hands-on activities with high school IB students, gardening activities, and supervised homework.
