The Portsmouth Grammar School

Founded in 1732, the school is guided by the values of curiosity, creativity, commitment, courage, compassion, and collaboration. It aims to provide a transformative education that prepares pupils for life beyond school, fostering intellectual independence, resilience, and a sense of community responsibility. The school emphasizes a culture of lifelong learning and encourages pupils to be confident, well-rounded individuals.

The school provides a continuous educational pathway from Pre-School (ages 2-4) through to the Sixth Form (ages 16-18). The Junior School (ages 4-11) utilizes a thematic curriculum, while the Senior School (ages 11-16) follows an academic curriculum leading to GCSEs. The Sixth Form offers A Level studies and preparation for higher education and careers. Throughout these stages, pupils engage in leadership development, including debating, current affairs, and various student councils.

Pupils frequently progress to top universities, including Oxbridge, or secure degree apprenticeships with prestigious firms such as Ernst & Young and PwC. Alumni, known as Old Portmuthians, have achieved success in diverse fields ranging from the Olympics to professional stage and screen. The school maintains strong links with its alumni, who often return to offer guidance to current pupils.

The school provides pastoral care designed to support every student as an individual within a safe environment. Additional educational needs are addressed through dedicated support structures to ensure pupils are encouraged to flourish.

The school admits pupils from age 2 to 18, with entry points including Pre-School, Junior School, Senior School, and Sixth Form. The admissions process involves assessments, entrance examinations, and a review of GCSE results where applicable. A non-refundable registration fee is required, and a deposit is payable upon acceptance of a place, which is later refunded on the first term's invoice.

The academic year is divided into three terms. The school provides an online calendar that allows users to filter events and subscribe to updates via platforms such as Google Calendar, Outlook, and Apple Calendar.

The school operates on a single site in the historic heart of Portsmouth, with additional facilities at the Hilsea Playing Fields. The campus includes indoor sports facilities, floodlit pitches for cricket, hockey, and football, and a theatre used by both the school and external performers. Premises are available for hire by community groups and local organisations during evenings and school holidays.

The school offers an extensive co-curricular programme encompassing sport, music, theatre, service, and leadership. Pupils are encouraged to join existing clubs or organise new ones, such as the student-led Entrepreneurship Society. Additional opportunities include the Combined Cadet Force, the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and various House-based activities.