The Nursery and Pre-School Difference
Welcome
It is my great pleasure to welcome you to our Early Years provision, a warm and inclusive setting where we always put children’s wellbeing at the heart of all that we do, whilst giving them every opportunity to grow and thrive in all aspects of their development.
At Portsmouth High Pre-School, we believe that the first five years of a girl’s life build the foundations for her future learning, health and happiness.
Set in the extensive grounds of our Prep School in the heart of Southsea, Portsmouth, our Pre-School is based in a light and modern building with access to a large wooded garden. This is a real oasis in an inner city environment, offering plenty of space for play and exploration.
Our Early Years staff are highly qualified and quickly get to know and understand each of the children in their care. The early years are a time of incredible development, with 90% of a child’s brain development happening by age 5 (UNICEF, 2020), and our pre-school offers an outstanding start for girls from the term of their third birthday (rising 3) until they join the Reception Class.
You are warmly invited to visit us, meet Early Years teaching staff, and find out more about the opportunities available. Do Request a Prospectus and book a personal tour of the school. We are very much looking forward to meeting you and your daughter.
Ruth Irvine-Capel
Head, Portsmouth High Prep and Pre-School
Children in the early years are provided with a well-planned curriculum, adept teaching and a well-resourced learning environment. As a result of these things, children settle quickly, develop confidence and learn effectively.
ISI REPORT, 2026
The Power of an Early Years Education at Portsmouth High School GDST
Assistant Head and Head of Early Years, Mrs Victoria Fabre De La Grange, talks about her ethos for early learning.
The Early Years is when you have the best chance of capturing a child’s curiosity, interest and imagination and to fire their passion for learning. At Portsmouth High School, Early Years specialists ensure your daughter gets off to best possible start. Watch her grow, develop…and change.
Regular one-to-one support helping children blossom
We pride ourselves on the individual attention that each and every child receives.
Unique explorer approach to learning
We encourage children to be active explorers, not just passive recipients.
Specialist teaching
From French to music, the children have a host of additional opportunities provided by specialist teachers.
Outdoor learning in beautiful grounds
Our gardens are a hidden gem that are just waiting to be explored.