Uniquely USAP

A groundbreaking two-year residential A‑Level program (Lower 6 & Upper 6) designed to bridge the literacy, research, critical thinking, and computer skills gaps identified in high-achieving Zimbabwean students

Honor Code and Quaker Values

Rooted in USAP’s Quaker identity, the campus upholds an Honor Code embodied through the values of integrity, equality, service, and curiosity. Every Sunday, the community gathers for a Quaker meeting for silent reflection—a moment to pause and connect deeply with personal purpose (“let your life speak”). Students are encouraged to live out these values in academics, peer relationships, and service to others

Integrity:

Cultivating honesty, moral courage, and the ability to act with ethical consistency across personal and academic life.

Equality:

Fostering mutual respect, listening, and shared decision-making in a diverse community.

Service:

Inspiring students to commit to uplifting their communities—evidenced by community-driven Capstones and active volunteerism.

Curiosity:

Encouraging wonder, questioning, and discovery through research, arts, athletics, and exploration.

honor code document

Extracurricular Life

Our vibrant extracurricular program offers a wide array of clubs and sports, including Archery, Chess, Creatives, Cross Country, Drama, First Aid, Football, Marimba, Math Olympiad, Mbira, Media Club, Model UN, Robotics, Traditional Dance, USAPella, Volleyball, and Sustainability. These activities are student-led, with no hierarchical leadership, allowing students to take initiative and develop leadership skills in a collaborative environment.

Students from Education Matters school in Zimbabwe Africa enjoy learning outdoors with big smiles.

Community & Wellbeing:

Our Honor Code is a cornerstone of our community, emphasizing the values of Integrity, Equality, Service, and Curiosity. These principles guide our students in their academic and personal endeavors, fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect. Weekly Advisory Groups provide a supportive space for students to discuss academic challenges and emotional well-being, ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive.

  • The Peer Support Program encourages students to assist and learn from one another, enhancing the supportive environment.
  • Our Campus Work Program instills a sense of responsibility, with students contributing to tasks like managing the library and maintaining technology.
  • Practical skills are built through community service activities, reinforcing the importance of collaboration.
Students from Education Matters school in Zimbabwe Africa serving nutritious cafeteria meals together.

Work Program

At USAP, all students participate in a work program that integrates practical, campus-based responsibilities such as maintaining gardens and facilities, managing dining operations, and supporting events like convocation. The work program encourages dignity in contribution, reinforces community values, and ensures students learn workplace skills and accountability. This is woven into daily life alongside academic and extracurricular commitments.

Advisory & Peer Support

USAP's Advisor program is designed to offer a low advisor-to-student ratio, ensuring that each student receives intimate and personalized guidance. Faculty advisors meet weekly with students, providing comprehensive support that spans academic planning, social-emotional well-being, and post-graduation pathways. This tailored approach helps high-achieving, low-income students excel in all facets of their educational journey.

Female educator leads enthusiastic students in Zimbabwe classroom at Education Matters school.

Convocation and Intersessions

The academic year at USAP is punctuated by Convocation weeks—dedicated periods for enrichment outside the standard curriculum. During these weeks, students explore diverse themes through workshops, guest speakers, and team-based challenges.Intersessions take place between terms and offer immersive, experiential learning in areas such as career exposure, innovation, leadership, and community engagement. These programs equip students with broader perspectives and transferable life skills.

USAP Bridge

USAP Bridge is a selective, one-year post-A-level enrichment program that prepares talented, economically disadvantaged Zimbabwean students for admission to top global universities. Participants engage in intensive college prep, community service, leadership training, and personal development. The program supports students through applications, financial aid, and adjusting to life abroad, continuing Education Matters Africa’s mission of fostering ethical, driven changemakers.

Women learning supporters sit outside Education Matters school in Zimbabwe, Africa's rural landscape.