This is the introduction to the full report, which is available online from the Catholic Education Service.

Summary report

Alton Convent School is a good Catholic school with excellent academic results. Admission to the senior school is by entrance examination. Pupils of all abilities including a small number who have needed support, have blossomed academically as a result of the individual attention and support they have received. The school is Catholic in its foundation and in its practice. It is made clear to prospective parents that the religious education, the worship and prayer within the school are Roman Catholic. All who wish to share in this provision and enjoy the benefits of this close-knit family community, are welcome to become part of it, including those of other Christian churches and other faiths. The school is outstanding in the care it shows for every one of its pupils. The progress and welfare of each pupil are a matter of concern to the school and are incorporated in the school's mission statement, throughout the curriculum and in every aspect of school life.

Strengths of the school:

• Strong Catholic leadership
• A dedicated and caring staff
• Excellent results at GCSE, A and A/S levels in religious education
• Good standards overall in religious education, both in teaching and achievement
• A close and harmonious community
• A firm basis of Catholic spirituality and worship
• Opportunities for personal and spiritual development through retreats and pilgrimages

Areas for development:

• To review the mission statement and ensure a clear statement of the school's Catholic identity
• To review the development of chaplaincy within the school
• To maintain the development of schemes of work for the Icons programme and provide increased opportunities for reflection upon the issues
• To review the programme of general religious education for years 11-13 in line with current diocesan objectives
• To give continued thought to preparing for life in a multicultural society