Alton School in Hampshire

[Hillyview2]

Looking for any experience of Alton School in Hampshire.
I believe there was a recent change of head and the school was due to have new facilities a while ago, but that hasn’t happened.
I know people who are looking at Frensham Heights, Priorsfield, St Edmunds and I’m wondering why Alton doesn’t feature as much?
We have a not overly academic, shy daughter, starting secondary next year, and are looking at private versus state. We want to give her a chance to find her confidence and reach her full potential. Very academically selective probably not a good idea, so Churcher’s College isn’t on our radar.
Any knowledge gratefully received.

I think Alton is quite a bit cheaper than the others you have mentioned, though more in line with Churcher's. I wonder whether, rather perversely, that might be putting people off - as they may think they are getting a second rate school?

Other than that, the Catholic nature of the school might put off some parents, especially perhaps the type who want a more alternative Frensham Heights type education for their children. Obviously it would also be an advantage for some parents.

Parents looking at Priorsfield presumably want a girls school.

I know two girls who went to Alton. They were happy there, but the younger one probably left 5 years ago so not particularly up to date. It wasn't popular with people in my area because it was further away than most of the others you have mentioned and public transport links weren't good.

Thank you. I like that perspective, I think there is something appealing to me about Alton. More grounded. Less London.

Mine is in the senior school and happy there and we are happy with it too. She's similar, a bit shy and not overly academic but bright enough and has thrived there. There is a strong focus on pastoral care but the academics are good too. The teachers really get to know the students and get the best out of them. The new head is very hands-on and approachable (even though he only took charge since the first lockdown so most of us have never met him) - he reaches out with weekly letters, videos and the remote learning and remote parents meetings etc have been excellent. They really do want to get the best out of each student.

The new developments have hit planning permission issues, the sports facilities aren't great compared to other private schools locally but they still manage to field strong teams and also encourage involvement in music and drama as well as lots of different lunchtime clubs.

Thank you that’s good to hear. Giving her the right environment in which to grow in confidence and thrive is our aim. Sounds like your daughter has done just that.

Hillyview, resurrecting this thread to see what you decided? We are looking at similar schools with a similar child.

I think I’ve PM’d you.

Might be worth checking out the financials on the Charity Commission website for this school (and any others if applicable) - we found it very useful and informative to do so.

Hi there, I would also love to know what you decided and if you went with Alton, are you happy with your choice? We have two children who are a bit younger but we’re considering Alton. The bit about less high powered and less London rang a bell with me. Thanks in advance

Hi. I tried to PM you but couldn’t. If you have specific question feel free to PM me and I’ll try to help.

Hello, resurrecting this thread again as considering Alton School for my daughter - looking specifically at junior school: Year 3 entry. Can anyone give insight / experiences of the school? A little concerned about 3 changes of head teacher over the last 4 years. Any info, gratefully appreciated!

A message was sent out today saying that the school is closing at the end of this summer term. Very sad for all teachers and pupils concerned, especially those doing GCSEs and A levels next year.

I’ve seen it, very sad news.

This is very sad - It seemed as if it was a very nurturing school with some lovely teaching staff.

It was, it's a while since my DD left now but we have very fond memories, they had some superb staff.

Why's it closing? We were due to attend an event there which has now been cancelled but no reason given.

The letter to families said enrolment for September was too low for the school to remain viable.