Academics
Senior Leadership Team
Mr. Alun Thomas
Head of School
I am a British national, having graduated and trained as a teacher at the University of Wales. After working in the UK in both the Primary (Elementary) and Secondary (Middle/High School) sectors, I embarked on an extensive career in an international career, working as Headmaster/Principal at schools in Ascension Island, Iran, Iraq, Bahrain, Sudan, Thailand, South Korea, and China as well as being the first Principal of BIS in Ho Chi Minh City and the founding Head of School at Renaissance International School Saigon. My experience has provided me with the opportunity of working within both the British and American systems and I have personally taught classes of students from the age of 4 — 18.
Head Of School
Mr. Garth O'Donnell
Elementary School and Early Childhood Principal
Garth O’Donnell serves as Elementary and Early Childhood Principal at the American School in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. He is currently in his eleventh year as an administrator with TAS. Prior to joining The American School, Mr. O’Donnell served for seven years as K-12 Vice Principal for Curriculum and Instruction at another WASC-accredited school in Ho Chi Minh City. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science as well as a Master of Arts in Education and a Certificate in School Management and Leadership. Garth was born and raised in New York. He is a self-proclaimed foodie who enjoys time in the gym and beach holidays during his free time.
Elementary School
& Early Childhood Principal
Dr. Ean Burchell
School Psychologist & Student Support Coordinator
Dr. Ean has been a counsellor, administrator, and teacher for over 30 years, most of this in international schools in Asia. He is a certified as a teacher, principal, and guidance counsellor with the Ontario College of Teachers and is a professional member of the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association and the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists.
School Psychologist & Student Support Coordinator
