Breaking Barriers: From ASDAN Student to Mentor at ICS
By International Community School - Amman
This article was featured in the BSME Newsletter 2025-26 | Read the Full Newsletter Here
At the International Community School (ICS) in Amman, inclusion and lifelong learning are not just values; they are active principles shaping every classroom experience. One of the school’s most impactful initiatives in this regard is the ASDAN International Award Programme, a UK-based curriculum that empowers students of all abilities to develop essential life and work skills through experiential learning.
Introduced at ICS as part of its commitment to inclusive education, the ASDAN programme provides a structured yet flexible framework for personal growth. It enables students to strengthen communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and independent learning through practical challenges that connect classroom learning to real-world contexts. Using the Plan, Do, Review model, students set goals, take initiative, and reflect critically on their progress, fostering both independence and confidence.
This inclusive approach has transformed how ICS supports diverse learners. Teachers have adapted the programme to suit various learning styles, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed and demonstrate achievement beyond traditional academics.
The results have been inspiring; students are becoming more self-directed, engaged, and reflective about their learning journeys.
A shining example of this success is Jumana F, who recently became the first student in Jordan to achieve the ASDAN Gold Award. Jumana’s milestone represents more than individual achievement, it highlights what can happen when inclusive opportunities meet perseverance and strong mentorship. Through 120 hours of independent work across modules like Healthy Living, Work-Related Activities, and Expressive Arts, she demonstrated initiative, leadership, and creativity, setting a precedent for future ICS learners.
Reflecting on her experience, Jumana shared:
“ASDAN is such a practical experience. It helps you see what teaching really involves and gives you a new appreciation for how much effort goes into every lesson. I’ve already learned so much, and I’m excited to keep growing.”
Her peers also value her impact. Marta and Hannie, two of Jumana’s students, said, “Jumana is a great teacher who always makes lessons fun, simple, and easy to understand.”
They described her positive energy and supportive nature as key to helping them learn with confidence. The ASDAN teacher added that Jumana’s strong social skills and warm personality have greatly supported her role as an ASDAN Ambassador and Mentor, helping her build meaningful connections and inspire others throughout their learning journey.
At ICS, we are proud to see how the ASDAN programme continues to shape students’ growth, enrich teaching practice, and strengthen our inclusive culture, a model we hope will inspire other BSME schools committed to building truly inclusive learning communities.