Up to seventy years after leaving Portsmouth High School, GDST, alumnae from the Classes of 1956, 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016 returned to school last weekend for a special reunion lunch and tours of both the Senior and Prep Schools.

Led by current sixth form students, the tours sparked countless memories, with visitors sharing stories of school life, comparing past and present, and often pausing for laughter and reminiscence along the way.

Isobel, Year 13, was one of the sixth form students hosting the tours. She said:

‘It was a real privilege to show our alumnae around the school and share how it has grown while still keeping the same sense of community. Hearing their memories made me realise just how strong the Portsmouth High School family is, no matter what generation you belong to.’

Among those returning was Mrs Pamela Snow (née Sorrell), from the Class of 1956, who reflected on her visit:

‘It was such fun to see the many changes and still to recall our days at PHS. In reality many, many years ago, but still easily recalled. There are so very many more opportunities open to the young of today, but so many more challenges; it does seem the staff members are meeting those with sympathy and common sense.’

Mrs Helen Wynne-Griffith (née Sandover), from the Class of 1966, added:

‘Sixty years on, the buildings might not be quite the same, but the “Happy Vibes” of our memories were everywhere. Smiling faces and laughter showed what an important part of our lives, PHS had been.’

The reunion also provided an opportunity to celebrate the official opening of The Prescott Hall, the school’s newly refurbished dining hall, named in honour of former Headmistress Mrs Jane Prescott.

Addressing the gathered alumnae, Head, Mrs Sarah Parker, said:

‘It is a joy to welcome our alumnae back to the school that helped shape your journeys and to celebrate the enduring bonds of our community.

‘Thank you to Mrs Prescott for returning to Portsmouth High School to officially open the new Dining Hall which has been refurbished in her name; The Prescott Hall.’

Former Headmistress Mrs Jane Prescott, who led the school from 2011 to 2024, added:

‘I was honoured to return to Portsmouth High School to see the amazing refurbishment of the new Prescott Hall. It was wonderful to chat to the alumnae from the Class of 1956 right up to the Class of 2016 and all those in between. PHS is a very special place.’

The event highlighted the lifelong connection alumnae share with Portsmouth High School, bringing together former pupils spanning seven decades and demonstrating the enduring strength of the school community.