Celebrating a Remarkable Year of Giving at PGS

As we reflect on the past year at The Portsmouth Grammar School, we are filled with gratitude and pride. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, 2024/25 has been one of our most successful fundraising years to date — with a total of £967,537.89 raised in support of bursaries and school-enhancing initiatives. 

This remarkable achievement is a testament to the strength and spirit of the PGS community, especially during a time of ongoing economic uncertainty and new financial pressures, including the introduction of VAT on school fees. In spite of these challenges, our supporters have once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to helping determined local pupils access a PGS education. 

This was illustrated in March, when we were thrilled to see alumni, pupils, parents and staff come together for our fourth Giving Day. 352 people donated across 36 hours raising an incredible £276,545. It was wonderful to see everyone get behind a shared goal – from bake sales and penalty shoot-outs to soaking the teacher, everyone played their part. 

“As a Direct Grant beneficiary, I cannot over emphasise the doors that PGS opened for me from both an academic and extra-curricular perspective. It is so rewarding to have the opportunity to contribute towards a bursary for someone to benefit equally.” - OP and donor 

“Donating for all the amazing pupils who have seized the opportunities of PGS with both hands. Hoping this will help ensure those opportunities are available for as many young people as possible.” - PGS Staff member and donor

This year also marked a major milestone — the 10th anniversary of the William Smith Fund. Over the past decade, the Fund has raised more than £6 million, providing life-changing bursaries and funding vital projects that enrich the experience of every pupil at PGS. 

“My life was changed by the financial support I received to enable me to be part of the PGS family. I will be forever grateful for that.” - OP bursary recipient and donor  

“My daughters received a great education at the School, and their experience equipped them well for the careers they have now. It would be lovely to provide this opportunity for another pupil who might otherwise not be able to afford it.” - PGS Parent and donor

We are particularly grateful to those who have left a gift to the school in their Will. Over the last year we have received over £400,000 in legacy donations. Legacies often enable people to be more generous than they can be during their lifetime and is a way to plan their giving after knowing that their loved ones are taken care of. The School was created due to a legacy gift left by our founder; Dr William Smith and we are proud that his legacy continues through the foresight and kindness of others.  

Every gift, no matter the size, has made a meaningful difference. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all our donors — alumni, parents, staff, and friends — who continue to believe in the power of education to transform lives. 

Together, we are shaping futures, supporting ambition, and building a stronger PGS community. 

Thank you. 

P.S. look out for our Donor Impact Report which lands later this month to hear more about how fundraising at PGS changes lives.