News

Alumnae from across seven decades returned to Portsmouth High School last weekend to reconnect, revisit cherished memories and celebrate the enduring spirit of the school community. From the Class of 1956 to the Class of 2016, former pupils enjoyed tours led by current sixth form students and the opening of the newly refurbished Prescott Hall.

Portsmouth High School celebrated its senior students’ achievements at a special awards evening, recognising excellence in academics, sport, music, drama and community service. Guest speaker and alumna Annalee Macfarlane (Class of 2022) inspired pupils with the message: 'Whatever you do, bring your 100%. And if you don’t like the world you’re in, have the courage to go and change it.'

As Portsmouth High School GDST begins the 2026/27 academic year, the school is proud to be led by two Oxbridge graduates who share a passion for girls' education, academic excellence and wellbeing. Head, Mrs Sarah Parker (Oxford), and Head of Prep, Mrs Ruth Irvine-Capel (Cambridge), bring outstanding experience and a commitment to ensuring every girl is known, valued and empowered to achieve her full potential.

Pupils at Portsmouth High School GDST celebrated outstanding GCSE results, with almost half of all grades awarded at A*/9 and 94% at A*-B equivalent. Head Sarah Parker praised pupils’ hard work, perseverance and the support of staff, while highlighting the opportunities for success in a girls-only environment. Among the top achievers were twins Hettie and Molly, who gained 20 top grades between them, alongside Isabella, Chloe and Lauren, who all secured exceptional results and will return to the school’s Sixth Form in September.

Portsmouth High School students are celebrating another year of exceptional A Level success, achieving a 100% pass rate with 79% of grades awarded at A-B. Headmistress Sarah Parker praised students’ hard work, determination and ambition, while students secured places on a wide range of university courses and apprenticeships, including Law at Exeter, PPE at Manchester and Nautical Science at Solent University.

Portsmouth High School’s Art and Design Technology Exhibition showcased an impressive range of student work, celebrating creativity, innovation and technical excellence across a diverse collection of art and design projects.