Your child will be inspired by role models at The Portsmouth Grammar School – apply now for entry in 2025

Leading by example, working with parents and fellow pupils and introducing role models, are all methods used at The Portsmouth Grammar School (PGS) to inspire and motivate pupils to aspire to be the best they can be.

This positive encouragement comes through one of PGS’s core values, collaboration, and it often starts at home.

This year the school has organised various events which involve parents or guardians, and pupils working together in a fun and friendly way, often through sporting endeavours.

In January a family circuit training session was organised with students and their parent or carers skipping, jumping and putting their ball skills to the test, whilst a family fun run to improve fitness across the generations had young and older running alongside one another and encouraging each other on.

Looking up to pupils

We often remember older pupils in school, those in years above us who we wanted to emulate. PSG takes this peer-to-peer power and uses it to positively support younger pupils, especially through sports.

For example, the sports day for years 3-6 involved year 12 pupils who helped out, encouraged and inspired the younger ones – a collaboration which proved inspirational for both sets of pupils.

Spurring on tomorrow’s athletes

The school said it had seen a record number of pupils attending athletics last term. Miss Amy Chaplin, Head of Athletics and Year 12, said: “Role modelling is really important for young people, because as much as I tell them that running is great and they will love it. They’re more convinced when someone, a little bit closer to their age says so.”

Many famous athletes have paid tribute to teachers they found encouraging and inspirational, who helped them aspire to do more. Famous names such as Jessica Ennis-Hill and Ian Wright have spoken about the impact teachers have had on their career.

A lesson in motivation

Staff at PGS work take their work as role models very seriously, and not just through words, but actions, whether it’s joining the Great South Run or undertaking a personal challenges, like Mr Alex Leach.

This year PGS took part in a challenge to cycle to Uganda where they are partners in learning with Kikaaya College School. Mr Leach cycled in the school’s playground for an entire school day, achieving over 200 km in 7 hours. He then cycled the width of the UK, a further 330 km and pupils biked the final 6000km over the summer holidays.

PGS enjoy adding a bit of fun and competitiveness between the teachers and pupils, including PGS staff v pupil hockey, netball and cricket teams.

And the power of role models is harnessed through collaboration across all age groups. The sports initiatives highlight pupil-to-pupil and teacher-led role modelling, encouraging growth and community. This approach not only nurtures athletic talent but also instills lasting values of collaboration and courage in their pupils.

Be part of the success story

The Portsmouth Grammar School is open to pupils from the age of two and a half (Pre-School) and has intakes at Reception; Year 3 (7+); Year 7 (11+); Year 9 (13+) and Sixth Form (16+), although the school welcomes enquiries in between these times for pupils from overseas or students new to the area whose families are relocating.

There is still time to apply for a place to start next year. The closing date for 2025 entry applications is Friday 20th September. To find out more or book a visit take a look at the website here (and click on apply for entry details)