SLAM School is an international educational institution for students between the ages of 12 and 18. At SLAM School, we embrace a personalized teaching model that helps our young people to discover what their abilities and talents are, so that they can develop them to the fullest.
SLAM School espouses an innovative and personalized approach to learning and self development. Students will undertake their middle- and high school studies according to the North American education system and graduate with an American High School Diploma. Alongside this, students have the choice to pursue other internationally recognized British accredited qualifications under our IVT (International Vocational Training) Program such as the IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) and Pearson BTEC diplomas.
In addition to the academic curriculum, SLAM School offers students specialized programs in sports, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) or performing arts fields based on their distinctive interests and talents. These programs have been rolled out in partnership with established institutions like Liverpool Football Club International Academy, The Royal Academy of Dance and The Associated Board of the Royal School of Music.
The language of instruction at SLAM School is English. Our students are thus required to be able to speak English with relative fluency. In addition to English, they will have Spanish Language classes and German will also be offered as an optional subject.
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to SLAM School. SLAM School wants, with this welcome message, to thank you for the trust you put in the only educational project in the world that nurtures the unique abilities of its students by developing personalized itineraries for each of them. This is the great strength of our project- to be able to discover your distinctive talents and provide you with support and counsel to help you fulfil your own potential for greatness.
Your education at SLAM School will culminate in the achievement of the American High School Diploma. Students may also pursue British accredited academic and vocational qualifications, which will align with their future higher education and career goals. For our students, this means a rigorous first-class education that will open the doors to the finest universities and equip them with the skills and knowledge to excel in the opportunities that await them.
We are a truly internationally-minded school, where you will be able to be part of a close-knit community of students and teachers from all over the globe. Being exposed to different points of view as well as diverse cultures will not only enrich you but will endow you with a genuinely cosmopolitan perspective that will serve you well in becoming an outstanding global citizen who can shape and lead the world with humility.
With SLAM School you will never walk alone. The lessons that you learn, the personal growth you experience and the meaningful relationships you establish will remain stored in the depths of your heart and keep you united to this institution for life. We thank you for choosing us and welcome you with open arms!
With warmest regards,
Bettina von den Steinen
Principal of SLAM School
Grade | Subjects |
Grade 7 | Language Arts 2 Grade 7 Mathematics Life Science Grade 7 Civics |
Grade 8 | Language Arts 3 Grade 8 Mathematics Grade 8 Earth Science Grade 8 History of the United States |
The SLAM High School Curriculum is comprised of a four-year curriculum designed to meet the requirements for admission to U.S. colleges and universities and other institutions of higher education in Spain, Europe and around the world. The purpose of the high school is to serve the interests and needs of students from grades nine to twelve as they prepare to continue their education and help them develop personal worth, dignity and a sense of responsibility to themselves and others. During the last years of school, our students are also encouraged to exercise their growing independence through academic, social and leadership opportunities, by taking advantage of small group travel in and around Spain and Europe.
All students graduate with an accredited American High School Diploma if they earn a minimum of 24 credits. The 24 credit breakdown by grade is as follows:
Grade | Subjects |
Grade 9 | English 1 Algebra 1 Biology US History Physical Education/Health Art/Theatre/Music |
Grade 10 | English 2 Geometry Chemistry World History Foreign Language Computers |
Grade 11 | English 3 Algebra 2 Physics (or equivalent science) American Government/Economics Foreign Language Elective |
Grade 12 | English 4 Pre-Calculus/Calculus (or equivalent) Elective Elective Elective Elective |
SLAM School offers various academic and vocational programs through our IVT (International Vocational Training) Program, rolled out in partnership with the educational institution, Campus FP. These programs are authorized by Pearson, the UK’s largest awarding body and OTHM qualifications, an awarding body regulated by Ofqual (Office of the Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) in England.
Pearson International GCSEs
For students aged 14+, we offer the Pearson International GCSEs (IGCSEs), globally recognised qualifications with academic content and assessment designed specifically for international learners.
OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies
Students aged 16+ (grades 11 and 12) have the option of taking the OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies. It is designed to ensure that each learner is equipped with knowledge of study skills, mathematics, computing, society and culture, business and accounting, providing the knowledge and skills to adapt rapidly to change and progress with their learning. Successful completion of the Level 3 Foundation Diploma for Higher Education Studies provides learners with the opportunity to progress to further study or employment.
Pearson BTEC International Level 3
Students aged 16+ may also choose to take the BTEC (Business and Technical Education Council) International Level 3, a career-focused educational qualification that equips them with practical industry skills and theoretical knowledge of a given field. We currently offer the Pearson BTEC Extended Diploma in Sport, which is developed by Pearson in partnership with Liverpool Football Club International Academy and aimed at providing a pathway to careers in sport, fitness and physical activity. Students taking the full BTEC must take the classes for two years. Students not taking the full BTEC may take classes for two years or one year and may change courses at the end of first year.
The above OTHM and Pearson qualifications are fully recognized in the UK and Europe, and are widely acknowledged and respected by universities worldwide. Students will graduate with an OTHM qualification/BTEC Diploma that aligns closely with their ambitions and future university or career plans. Successful completion of the OTHM Level 3 Foundation Diploma for higher studies will allow students to access OTHM higher education diplomas at Level 4, 5, 6 and 7. Similarly, after completing a BTEC International Level 3, students may choose to pursue higher education with a BTEC Higher National qualification, which we offer at Level 4 and 5.
High sport performance refers to an athlete's ability to achieve the best possible results in his or her chosen sport. This can include physical strength, speed, endurance, agility and mental focus. There are several key factors that contribute to high sport performance, such as training, nutrition, rest and recovery, and mental preparation.
Training is an essential component of high athletic performance. Athletes should participate in regular, structured training programmes that focus on the development of specific physical skills needed for their sport. These programmes may include strength and conditioning exercises, endurance training, speed drills and specific skills practice.
Nutrition is critical. Athletes should eat a balanced diet that provides them with the nutrients necessary to fuel their bodies and support muscle growth and repair.
Mental preparation. Athletes must develop mental toughness and focus to overcome obstacles, maintain confidence and perform at their best under pressure. This may include visualisation techniques, goal setting, positive self-talk and relaxation strategies.
In addition to these factors, high performance in sport also requires a supportive team environment. Athletes must have access to high quality coaches, medical care and support staff to help them achieve their goals. This may include physiotherapists, nutritionists, sports psychologists and other professionals who can help athletes stay healthy and perform at their best.
Overall, achieving high sporting performance requires a holistic approach that focuses on the development of physical and mental skills, as well as the use of technology and a supportive team environment. By focusing on these key factors, athletes can improve their performance and achieve the best possible results in their chosen sport.
High capabilities in STEAM refer to the development of skills and knowledge in the fields of science, technology, engineering, art, and mathematics. These skills are considered essential for success en el futuro workforce and for addressing global challenges such as climate change and healthcare.
Science is the study of the natural world, and developing scientific capabilities involves gaining an understanding of scientific principles, conducting experiments, and analyzing data. This includes developing skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry.
Technology refers to the use of tools, machines, and systems to solve problems and achieve specific goals. Developing technological capabilities involves gaining proficiency in the use of digital tools and platforms, as well as understanding how technology can be used to create innovative solutions.
Engineering involves the design and development of systems, structures, and machines. Developing engineering capabilities involves gaining an understanding of engineering principles, as well as developing skills in design thinking, prototyping, and testing.
Art involves creative expression and the use of visual, auditory, and sensory media to communicate ideas and emotions. Developing artistic capabilities involves gaining an understanding of different art forms, as well as developing skills in creative thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration.
Mathematics involves the study of numbers, quantities, and shapes, and developing mathematical capabilities involves gaining proficiency in mathematical concepts and operations. This includes developing skills in problem-solving, logical reasoning, and data analysis.
In addition to formal education, developing high capabilities in STEAM also requires exposure to real-world problems and opportunities to apply knowledge and skills in practical settings. This can include internships, apprenticeships, and project-based learning opportunities.
Finally, developing high capabilities in STEAM requires a supportive learning environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and collaboration. This includes access to state-of-the-art facilities, supportive mentors and peers, and a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
The SLAM Arts Program consists of music and dance education. The program prepares students for further studies in both national and international performing arts but is also meant for any student who would like to learn music or dance for their own enjoyment and enrichment. Students who are interested in pursuing higher education in the arts and train to a professional level in the future, are able to obtain certifications/degrees from renowned art institutions we have partnered with- the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music and the Royal Academy of Dance. Music students may specialize in piano, guitar, percussion, organ, singing, violin, viola, trombone, tuba, flute, clarinet, bassoon or saxophone.
About our SLAM Arts Program Partners
The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music (ABRSM) is the world's leading provider of music assessments and assessments by levels. It is a trusted body, respected by teachers and students around the world. ABRSM has over 100 years of experience and specialization in the field of music education and is supported by four of the UK's leading conservatories: the Royal Academy of Music, Royal College of Music, Royal Northern College of Music and Royal Conservatoire of Scotland. It offers examinations and assessments by level, a progressive framework aimed at measuring musical progress and lifelong learning. Graduate exams have recently gained recognition from the authorities regulating academic qualifications in the UK within the framework of the so-called "National Qualifications Framework".
The Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) is a UK-based examination board specializing in dance education and training, with an emphasis on classical ballet. The RAD, founded in 1920 in the United Kingdom with the purpose of establishing the academic canon of dance, currently has more than 14,000 members worldwide and each year examines more than 250,000 students.
Co-curricular activities are a crucial part of meaningful holistic development and education. At SLAM School, students are highly encouraged to partake in a wide range of activities outside of the classroom that allows them the opportunity to explore their talents and develop new skills. This is why many of our co-curricular activities have been integrated into our curriculum, through our Sports, STEAM and Arts program.
Other co-curricular activities that we offer include:
SLAM School offers students the possibility of pursuing their studies while staying at our boarding house within the Sierra de Guadarrama campus, located in the middle of nature. The boarding residence, overlooking a lake, is fully equipped with single, double or triple rooms and is separated into two different wings by sex.
Boarding is the best way for students to develop independence, foster responsibility, learn to manage their own time, help others and form strong and meaningful friendships. Through boarding, students benefit from the experience of being part of a compassionate and caring community that accords full support for their personal growth and development.
Our residence provides full board as well as cleaning and laundry services, so that our students do not have to worry about these tasks during the school term and can enjoy a comfortable stay. Students are only expected to make their beds daily and keep order in their room and in the rest of the common facilities.
Facilities and features of our boarding house:
Aware of the need for parents and guardians to know first-hand how their child is doing, we have established a mentoring program that is aimed at the personal accompaniment of each of our students, during both school and non-school hours, including during their time of residence in our facilities on weekends. At SLAM School, the safety and well-being of students is paramount. Thus, assigned mentors monitor all aspects inside and outside of the classroom and are in permanent contact with families. They serve as a guardian to students and as a trusted link for families during the school year.
We recognize that apart from an academic education, experiences outside of the classroom play an integral part in helping our students broaden their minds and develop into well-rounded young individuals. With this in mind, SLAM School has designed a wide range of weekend activities that our boarders can partake in.
These activities include field trips to Spanish cities with rich history and tradition, in order to acclimatize students to Spain’s unique corners and squares, visiting museums, cultural institutions and large companies, as well as other more fun and playful activities that take place outside of the school campus. Students will be permanently accompanied by their mentors during all weekend activities.
Boarders who choose not to participate in weekend activities may enjoy their leisure time within the perimeters of the campus and are free to utilize the school’s sports and recreational facilities.
Admissions Criteria
Admissions Procedure
In the case that the candidate is offered a place, SLAM School provides all families with a personalized advisory service to help with relevant legal procedures and obtaining the student visa, as well as to carry out the necessary formalities in Spain before the immigration authorities, once the student is already enrolled at our school. Do not hesitate to contact us if you require any assistance.
The price for the academic year (September - June) is: 50.000€.
This fee includes:
For those students who do not wish to or can not travel to the US but wish to receive a complete,
fully accredited US education which follows a quality curriculum and, on graduating, obtain their
US High School Diploma, we offer our full academic year studies: grades 6 to 12.
After arrival from a J1 or F1 academic stay in the US, students can continue their US high school
studies either as a full 6 credit per year program or by joining our Dual Diploma program.
Also, if a student returns from an academic year in the US and has not passed the required subjects
to be able to validate their academic year in the US with the academic year which they missed in their
home country, they can take the subjects which they are short of through American High School.
Our pathway programs are designed to support international students needing additional help
with English and academic preparation before enrolling in a degree program in the USA.
Students take ESL courses to increase their English level as well as subjects related to their
chosen degree course. The duration of our pathway programs is generally 1 year.
For those students who did not finish or did not take their high school certificate in their country of
residence, American High School offers their full 24 credit high school program.
Students will obtain an accredited US high school diploma on successful completion of the program.
Our Bespoke program is a 6 credit, 1 year program in which students can choose the subjects which
they would like to take from our extensive elective course catalogue of around 50 courses, giving
them the opportunity to learn about new and interesting subjects not available in their home country
as well as from our core subject catalogue which will help to reinforce the core subjects which they
are taking in their home country
The professionalism and qualifications of American High School teachers is another of the keys to the success of our programs. The interaction between participants and teachers should be constant and
fluid, making students express themselves in English.
The different American High School courses are taught by qualified, competent, native teachers with high-quality teaching tools and an excellent syllabus updated according to legislative changes.
Students will have live sessions with teachers which are fundamental for detecting the difficulties a student may be having, to strengthen knowledge, to clarify possible doubts and to practice their English
For those students who do not wish to or can not travel to the US but wish to receive a complete, fully
accredited US education which follows a quality curriculum and, on graduating, obtain their US High
School Diploma we offer our full academic year studies: grades 6 to 12.
– Our general credit high school program is the perfect option for students who wish to apply for college/
university entrance in the USA.
– Our high school program featuring NCAA approved courses is designed for student athletes who wish
to apply for college/university entrance in the USA together with an athletic scholarship.
– After arrival from a J1 or F1 academic stay in the US, students can continue their US high school
studies either as a full 6 credit per year program or by joining our Dual Diploma program.
If a student returns from an academic year in the US and has not passed the required subjects to be
able to validate their academic year in the US with the academic year which they missed in their home
country, they can take the subjects which they are short of through American High School.
– For students wish to apply for US college/university entrance, we offer our American High School Pathway programs which are designed to support international students needing additional help with English and academic preparation before enrolling in a degree program in the USA.
Students take ESL courses to increase their English level as well as subjects related to their chosen
degree course.
Our Pathway programs consist of 6 full credits and their duration is generally 1 year.
– Our Bespoke program is a 6 credit, 1 year program in which students can choose the subjects which
they would like to take from our extensive elective course catalogue of around 50 courses, giving them
the opportunity to learn about new and interesting subjects not available in their home country as well
as from our core subject catalogue which will help to reinforce the core subjects which they are taking
in their home country.
American High School programs help students to develop technological skills.
A greater interest level and motivation, better learning autonomy, an interdisciplinary
nature, digital and audio-visual literacy, development of information search and
selection skills, or even a positive teacher-student communication are just some of the
many advantages that this virtual, digital learning program offers and which facilitate
the students’ integration to this emerging world which is constantly changing and
transforming. A world where the command of new technologies is vital.
It is undeniable that English is known in many parts of the world as the “lingua franca”
of the global economy, in business, technology, science and aviation and its influence is
greater than ever in the XXI century. American High School’s programs promote English
learning. All subjects are taught in English and interactions between teachers and
international students are established in English. This creates an extremely positive
immersion environment to improve communicative skills, and increases motivation
and confidence when using the language. This is an essential characteristic of any
program seeking to achieve a high linguistic level.
The learning of different materials and subjects which would not normally be
accessible to students, together with a robust capacity for work and a high English
level, provides students with a wide range of academic possibilities. A high school
student wishing to attend an American university will have advantages, when
submitting their application, over students who have not shown this command of
English and other academic achievements.
American High School’s programs also test the ability of students to work in different
cultural environments. This cultural exchange begins the very first moment that
students begin their course, write reports and communicate with their native teachers in English.
American High School’s programs open new horizons to the future of your
children, allowing them the possibility to access prestigious universities not
only in the USA, but also worldwide.
They encourage maturity, independence and self-management in students, teaching them to acquire responsibilities and to be more competitive, helping them to enter an employment world which is more and more demanding and which is in a process of constant change and transformation.
-Internationalization of studies: American High School’s programs offer thepossibility to study international courses in an easy, comfortable and flexible way.
-Access to new teaching methods: Students have the chance of getting to know, first hand, the workings of one of the most highly acclaimed education systems in the world.
-Preview of higher education: In American High School’s programs, similar teaching methods are applied to those which students face at university or in mobility programs such as the Erasmus Program.
The control and monitoring of students both by program supervisors and American High School teachers is extremely meticulous. Parents will be periodically informed of the students’ progress by the local program supervisor who will help them to resolve doubts and different questions related to the
program. At the same time, the local program supervisor and American High School teachers will continuously monitor the achievements and progress and will contact students from time to time to make sure that they successfully follow and complete the program, meeting all deadlines.
Parents will have access to the local program supervisor and to students’ assessments. Like this, they will be fully informed.
The assessment of students will be continuous through the observation of their progress in the fulfilment of their tasks and the educational goals of each module. Students must successfully fulfil tasks, projects and online tests and quizzes. The grade of performance and command over all these aspects will be assessed by American High School teachers.
Grades will range from A to F. A being the highest grade and F being the lowest. Students will obtain a C grade as a minimum in every subject. If not the coursework or subject will need to be repeated.
Students are expected to make a genuine effort similar to other quality extracurricular activities such as at a music conservatory or an Official Language School. Their determination and dedication is essential to the success of the program.
Students will be enrolled with American High School which is registered with the Florida State Department of Education. They will have the opportunity to obtain a fully accredited US High School Diploma from American High School, a private highschool in the State of Florida.
The approval of the syllabus and its adaptation to the regulations and requirements of educational institutions and American High School’s accreditation by “SACS CASI AdvancED/Cognia” together with the fact that our teachers are certified by the Florida Education Department and/or other US states, give our US high school diploma identical value to any other US high school diploma a student may obtain by following an on-site academic course in the USA.
American High School’s US high school diploma has the same validity in all US territory, providing the possibility to apply for a position at any US university or College, in many cases without the need to sit a TOEFL exam, (SAT test will be required) and as such it is recognized all over the world.
© SLAM INTERNATIONAL