REVERENCE AND RESPECT FOR LEARNING ANCHOR OUR CLASSICAL PROGRAM.

The Benedictine tradition underscores the importance of an education guided by reverence for God and the human person and based on a respect for learning and order. In our curricular programs, Portsmouth Abbey School is committed to fostering academic excellence.

At Portsmouth Abbey School the study of classical languages, literature and history provides you with an excellent opportunity to learn fundamental truths, beliefs and texts that have challenged every generation since the ancient world. You will be following in the steps of students who have been trained in this manner for centuries.

We are committed to a curriculum steeped in the classics that helps you and your classmates to develop a common background of knowledge. As you study a classical language and ancient history you learn to think and write critically. Although the problems and issues faced by our distant ancestors and the characters in literature may seem remote, in many ways the themes and patterns repeat themselves today. Studying the classics helps you to put in place the building blocks for understanding the modern world. Our challenging curriculum is rich in mathematics and science and includes a signature Humanities program that students enter in their Fourth Form year.

Our classes average 12 to 14 students. The small class size and our passionate, committed teachers make the learning process unique, engaging and active. A 40-minute conference period is scheduled nearly every day, which allows you time to consult a teacher one-on-one if you have questions or concerns about an assignment, or if you simply want to dig deeper into subject material.

You will not be an observer in your education, you will be a participant, building your knowledge year by year.

Expect great things from yourself. We do.

While you are at Portsmouth Abbey School, you will continually build your base of knowledge in subjects ranging from science and mathematics to art. As you depart for college, you will have a solid, liberal arts education that will make you more confident. You will know how to think critically and independently, and write clearly and precisely. These skills will prepare you for any learning experience.

We know this sounds like a lot. It is! At Portsmouth Abbey School, you will be guided through an exciting journey in partnership with faculty, monks and your fellow students. As one teacher says, "It's accepted and expected that you will succeed."