upper loop
(GRADES 9–12)
high school at VERSO International school Of Bangkok, Thailand
Welcome to the Upper Loop, where we make use of experiential and project-based approaches to develop future-ready skills — ranging from critical and creative thinking to the social and interpersonal dimensions of success.
All of these elements come together under the care of attentive Learning Designers, who engage our learners as innovators and leaders for a rapidly changing world. Learning experiences in the Upper Loop provide self-directed opportunities for growth that are framed within design thinking: learners are empowered to be inspired as well as independent and to have confidence in their own ideas while also developing empathy for others.
Thanks to deep investments in tools, technologies and learning spaces that make VERSO stand apart, our Upper Loopers benefit from cutting edge environments for knowledge acquisition. Whether or not they choose to complete the globally recognized Advanced Placement (AP) courses and exams, our learners can take their next steps with confidence and direction. The distinctive features of the VERSO academic framework, including the Learning Labs and Explore as well as regular excursions Beyond the Walls, ensure they refine their thinking and expand their mindsets.
On a daily basis, we see that our VERSO citizen designers not only demonstrate achievement but also make an impact in new and exciting ways. Real world problem-solving happens through their innovation and collaboration as well as a range of interpersonal skills. The future awaits them along with access to some of the world’s most innovative and highly esteemed colleges and universities
Giles Pinto
VERSO Middle & Upper Loop Leader
GRADES 9-12
Upper LOOP PROGRAM
At VERSO Upper Loop, or high school (Grades 9-12), learners are provided with the necessary support and guidance to chart their own pathway through high school. With a wide range of projects, courses, and electives, learners can dive deeply into exciting disciplines and emerging technologies and embrace the interconnectivity of the world of tomorrow.
Assignments are designed to be flexible, enabling learners to be creative and integrate their personal interests while also building collaborative skills and interdisciplinary thinking abilities.
Interdisciplinary Learning Labs
Each year, learners engage in Learning Labs (LeLABs), an interdisciplinary project-based learning experience that brings together deep text analysis and historical inquiry in a single, immersive project. Every learner completes one LeLAB each year to earn the four required English Language Arts and four Social Studies credits for graduation. One credit is awarded for the successful completion of a full-year course.
LeLABs focus on real-world themes such as community advocacy and human rights, blending deep text analysis, historical inquiry, persuasive writing, and evidence-based discussion. The curriculum is aligned with the New York State Education Department (NYSED) standards and enriched by guest experts, simulations, and community connections..
Design Thinking & Explore
Explore is a core part of the VERSO curriculum making use of Agile for Education as its project-management framework, offering both teacher-designed (weXplore) and learner co-designed (iXplore) projects. Through iterative learning sprints, learners develop critical design thinking skills—empathy, problem-solving, prototyping, and testing—while applying academic content to authentic challenges. The program fosters self-direction, collaboration, and adaptability.
VERTEX Capstone
In Upper Loop, iXplore culminates in VERTEX, a two-year, self-directed capstone that all Grade 12 learners undertake as a graduation requirement. Beginning with a formal proposal in Grade 11, students pursue in-depth research and showcase their findings, developing competencies in critical thinking, project management, research, and communication.
Mathematics
Learners complete core credits in Algebra 1, Geometry, and Algebra 2, with options to accelerate or pursue advanced courses such as Pre-Calculus, Calculus, and Statistics (including AP-level offerings), aligning their pathway with future academic and career goals.
Science
Three core science credits are required: Life Science, Physical Science, and AP Computer Science Principles. Advanced learners may opt for AP Biology or AP Physics. The curriculum emphasizes STEAM, computational thinking, and real-world scientific inquiry.
Visual & Media Arts (MADLAB)
MADLAB is a year-long foundation in visual and media arts, focusing on technique, creativity, and conceptual thinking. Learners build a digital portfolio, experiment with diverse media, and prepare for AP Art & Design.
experiential learning: Duke of edinburgh’s international award
The Duke of Edinburgh’s (DofE) International Award is designed to challenge young people between the ages of 14-24 to attain standards of achievement and endeavor in a wide variety of active interests – to serve their communities, experience adventure and to develop and learn outside the classroom.
The program takes between one and four years to complete, allowing participants to progress through levels to achieve Bronze, Silver or Gold DofE International Award. Participants at VERSO can select and set objectives in each of the following areas:
Volunteering – Service to others or the community over a period of 12 months
Physical – Achieving a certain standard of health and fitness over 12 or 6 months
Skills – Developing practical skills and nurturing personal interests and talents (12 or 6 months depending on timescale for physical)
Expeditions – Completion of an outdoor challenge over the course of 4 days/3 nights
Residential – At Gold Level, participants must undertake an additional section which involves shared activity in a residential setting away from home for 5 days/4 nights
university & career counseling
The University and Career Counseling Department at VERSO International School is dedicated to empowering learners to navigate their academic and professional futures with confidence. Through personalized counseling, workshops, and resources, the department supports learners in identifying their strengths, interests, and aspirations. It provides guidance on university applications, career planning, and skill development, ensuring learners are well-prepared for higher education and the evolving job market.
By fostering connections with global universities and industries, our University and Career Counselor helps learners explore diverse pathways and make informed decisions, aligning with VERSO’s mission to prepare them to become global citizen designers.