Mount Alvernia College is an independent Catholic secondary school for girls operated by the Missionary Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception. As a Franciscan College, Mt. Alvernia endeavours to follow the example of Jesus in the footsteps of Saints Francis and Clare of Assisi. The college is located in a Franciscan precinct which encompasses a parish primary school and a boys' primary and secondary college. Parent involvement in all areas of college life is encouraged. Students are drawn from Catholic primary schools in the north and north-west of Brisbane; around 20% come from State primary schools. In 2008, Mt Alvernia had an enrolment of 685. The core values of the school are achieved by its inclusive enrolment policy; students of all academic abilities are represented. The college does not have scholarships as such; families in need are encouraged to apply for enrolment. Students are actively encouraged to be involved in community outreach programmes. The academic vision of the college has been developed through the building of the Anthony Middle Years Centre to facilitate learning and teaching in Years 8 and 9. The college excels in academic achievement and has achieved international acclaim for its Music Every Day programme.