"> I was searching for a school with a holistic approach to learning for my son when I found St John’s College. As a concerned parent, I read through the aim and objective of the school including the pastoral care and I was impressed so I decided to visit. I am so glad I did and that we chose St John’s College because our son’s progress is such a commendable one. It's tutoring at its best. Teachers in St John’s College have been so supportive and encouraging to see that our son succeeds as a young man. With a well equipped boarding facility which creates the home away from home atmosphere has made adaptation very easy for our son. Finally St John’s College has helped our son to discover his potentials and how to use it to make a difference in the ways that matter to him most.

"> My children joined St Johns College in years 5 and 6 in the Junior school to give them the opportunity to settle into school life before Senior school. My only regret is that they didn’t start at SJC earlier. Both my son and daughter have been encouraged to develop to the best of their ability with the opportunity being provided to excel if they are able to. In particular the schools' attention to music, art, drama and sport in class and across Houses has enabled both my children to unfold layers of their character that have truly enhanced their lives. I have found the staff both approachable and helpful and prepared to use all the resources available to them to ensure each child develops positively. Their commitment to both child and parent is impressive. St Johns College has a ‘triangular’ approach, placing the staff, the children and the parents at each point, creating a community, and encouraging the children and parents alike to take a pride in the school and all it offers.

"> Our daughter loves being at St John's College. We have never had a day where she does not want to attend. She likes that her individuality is appreciated, as is her attendance at school events that she may not be involved in, since she is not always chosen for teams to represent the school. This appreciation means that she still wants to attend and support her school or House, whether it is outside school hours or not. She also likes that the school applauds the out-of-school achievements of the children in exactly the same way as those in school, so that those who follow different clubs or activities than those supported by the school are still recognised. She feels that this is very important to her and her friends. Before choosing St John’s College Junior School we considered several schools in the area. We liked the smaller size of St John's, especially the class sizes, and that the school buildings are on a single-site, so that older and younger children are together. We liked the ethos of the school as compared to others. The approach of locating some classes in Year 6 in Senior School buildings is proving very effective. There are fewer nerves around 'getting lost in the buildings' and 'not knowing who the teachers are'. From a personal point-of-view, St John's were flexible in the approach for our child. We felt that even after a short period of time (a taster day and a brief interview with Mr Shrubsall) the school understood the needs of our child and were prepared to work with her particular needs as an individual, rather than just as another child in a class.

"> You never really know for certain what a school is like until something goes wrong and then you find out! St John's College gave exceptional pastoral support to my family in a way that was above and beyond what we expected. I believe we would not have received this level of support and understanding anywhere else.

"> We found looking around a school was like looking around a new home - it either feels right or it doesn't. SJC simply felt right from the outset. We have been delighted ever since. Our boys have made some terrific friends and have been given some great opportunities. Unlike some Hampshire private schools it is not a sausage factory, but values the individual. The students are happy, confident, well-rounded individuals. A quiet revolution has been taking place at SJC in recent years and the school is picking up a lot of coverage. It is worth looking early to secure a place.

"> We have found St John's College Portsmouth to be a first-rate private school, providing a tailored education, combined with a supportive pastoral environment. Although some guides suggest it is a Catholic school, which historically it was, it now caters to all faiths. Its modern management continues to develop the College, with the College becoming more select and mainstream in recent years. Class sizes tend to be kept to 20 or less. It offers an extensive sporting programme and a variety of other extra curricular activities which help develop the talents and creativity of its students. Its pastoral care goes beyond the norm, focusing on developing and nurturing the individual, which in turn provides them with both confidence and an appetite for life. Its urban setting sets it apart from many of the main independent Hampshire schools, but don't judge this school by that particular cover, as its well-known alumni may suggest, this school is definitely worth a look.