The much anticipated Sixth Form Ball, held jointly between Alton Convent School and Salesian College, took place at Frensham Pond Hotel. Pupils and teachers arrived to a Bucks Fizz reception overlooking Frensham Pond, before enjoying a three course meal and dancing to “Firebird”.

Throughout the evening, guests had the opportunity to have their photographs taken by Zixi Still a local company owned by Alton Convent School parents. Pupils from both schools have participated in many joint sixth form activities from Leadership courses in Wales to helping handicapped children in Lourdes. The event was a fitting end to all these students’ school careers and all the hard work leading up to their public exams. The schools look forward to welcoming them back mid August for their A-level results.

Waiting for Mrs Seanor to arrive, members of the sixth form past and present were all eager to thank Mrs Seanor for all her hard work and dedication, in matters concerning not only the sixth form but also in all areas of school life. Each of us had agreed that Mrs Seanor’s service to the school should not go unnoticed on her retirement and so a surprise barbeque was arranged. A display of pictures illustrating her time at the school had been set out which helped provoke some wonderful memories for teachers and pupils alike. We greeted Mrs Seanor and were then able to all sit down in the open air, to a barbeque supper, prepared by Mr Maher, Mr Charles and Mr Wallace. The evening ended with speeches from Sophie Dobson, Mrs Kirkham and Mrs Seanor herself. The event was a great success, with everyone having the chance to give their personal thanks to Mrs Seanor and a very enjoyable evening was had by all.

Harriet LVI

The AS level Biologists, accompanied by Dr Otter were fortunate to have the opportunity to attend a Revision Day at Surrey University in Guildford. The speakers were all Senior Examiners and so had an excellent understanding of the kinds of things that students find difficult and the ways in which they can improve their grades. All this was illustrated with some fabulous pictures and interesting biological stories so the experience was enjoyable as well as very useful!

The UVIth trip to Amsterdam was an unforgettable experience. Once we stepped off the train we were flooded with images of bicycles and trams on the way to our hotel. As it was a late night, we had a good night's sleep and visited the Van Gogh museum in the morning. This took us through a biographical journey of his life showing his interests and family, as well as his artwork. It also involved artists he inspired and those he was inspired by. Much of his work was extremely moving and made a poignant impact on many of us.

The trip that took months to arrive and will take years to fade
The trip that moments made, moments endlessly replayed
Where I was forgotten but where we were found
The trip where our days and actions were framed by a sound

Lourdes alters your thinking and moulds your perception, from your first time in the grotto to strolling the streets. You were constantly surrounded by music, every corner you turned, every group you joined. And regardless of your ability or talent you sang as well. Everyone could join in and it was a unifying force. Everyone's experiences of Lourdes were unique to them but we all sang the same songs.