Welcome from the Head

The Portsmouth Grammar School was founded in 1732  by Dr William Smith, Physician and Mayor of Portsmouth, who was determined that, like him, the young people of Portsmouth should have access to a transformative education, and flourish through spirit, vision, and learning.

Nearly 300 years on, we remain true to a founder’s vision today: a forward-looking school located in the historic heart of Portsmouth.

I believe The Portsmouth Grammar School is a very special place. At its heart is a long-standing commitment to academic excellence, supporting each pupil to achieve their individual goals . Each year, our pupils secure places at Oxford and Cambridge, as well as many of the world's leading universities, others choose degree apprenticeships with prestigious organisations. Across the school, at every age, there is a culture of intellectual curiosity and ambition, reflected not only in examination success but also in pupils' participation and achievement in national competitions such as the Maths Olympiad and each day in their classroom.

Alongside academic achievement sits a rich and vibrant co-curricular programme. Whether a pupil's interests lie in sport, music, drama or any number of other pursuits, there are countless opportunities to explore and develop them at PGS. Equally important is the encouragement pupils receive to create new opportunities of their own. Recently, for example, a group of Year 10 pupils established an Entrepreneurship Society, demonstrating the initiative and enterprise that are so valued here.

Our former pupils, known as Old Portmuthians, have gone on to make significant contributions across a wide range of fields, from elite sport to the arts, business and public service. Many speak warmly of the experiences and opportunities they enjoyed at PGS and the role these played in shaping their futures. The strength of their connection to the school remains remarkable. At our most recent Life at 25 reunion, more than 110 former pupils returned to reconnect with friends and teachers and to share their insights with the next generation.

Underpinning everything we do is a deep commitment to pastoral care. Every young person is unique, and we strive to ensure that each pupil feels known, supported and valued. Ours is a community in which young people are encouraged to flourish, to take opportunities and to develop confidence in a safe and nurturing environment.

It is this combination of academic ambition, breadth of opportunity and genuine care for one another that makes PGS such an exceptional place, and why it continues to thrive nearly three centuries after its foundation.

I look forward to welcoming you.

Mr Andrew Fisher
Head