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Portsmouth Grammar School: Portsmouth Point magazine

Client Overview

Portsmouth Grammar School (PGS) is a prestigious co-educational private day school located in the historic heart of Portsmouth, England. With a long-standing tradition of academic excellence, PGS is committed to fostering a vibrant, inclusive learning environment that nurtures the intellectual and personal growth of its students.

For over 15 years, The Graphic Design House (TGDH) has had the privilege of supporting PGS in various graphic design projects, one of the most notable being the Portsmouth Point magazine.

The Opportunity

The objective of the Portsmouth Point magazine is to create an editorial publication that not only engages but also provokes thought, allowing PGS pupils and staff to explore a wide range of subjects. The magazine needs to reflect PGS’s commitment to freedom of thought and open debate, becoming a platform where students and staff can express their ideas and insights. This long-term strategic partnership is an opportunity to craft a publication that serves as a vital communication tool and a source of pride for the entire PGS community.

Front cover design for Portsmouth Point
“It has been a pleasure working with you over so many years; you have always been so professional and have made the publishing and printing process an efficient and stress-free one, from my perspective, so thank you, again, for everything you have done to make editing Portsmouth Point such a pleasure.”

James Burkinshaw
English/Head of Careers,
Universities & Scholarship/Sen Teacher
The Portsmouth Grammar School

Our Approach

Recognising the importance of this publication to PGS’s intellectual and cultural life, we have adopted a classic editorial style that would make the magazine both visually appealing and intellectually stimulating.

  • Design Strategy: The design team at TGDH always focus on creating a diverse selection of layouts, ensuring that each spread is tailored to match the subject matter and accompanying imagery. This approach allows for variety within the magazine while maintaining a consistent style that balances images and text, ensuring that the voices of the writers are always at the forefront.
  • Flexibility and Engagement: We design the layouts to be flexible, accommodating a wide range of topics and writing styles. This flexibility is crucial in keeping the readers engaged, allowing the magazine to cover diverse subjects without losing its cohesive look and feel. Attention to detail is paramount, as we ensure that every issue is not only aesthetically pleasing but also aligned with PGS’s editorial goals.
  • Editorial Excellence: Throughout the years, TGDH has meticulously crafted each issue of Portsmouth Point, maintaining high standards of design and editorial content. Our approach has been to continually innovate while staying true to the magazine’s original vision, making sure it remains a respected and valued publication within the PGS community.

The Results

In an educational environment, publications like Portsmouth Point are more than just communication tools—they are integral to fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

The consistent quality and engaging content of the magazine have made it a respected publication that not only informs and entertains but also inspires and connects the PGS community.

By continually maintaining high standards of design and content, TGDH has helped Portsmouth Grammar School create a legacy of excellence that reflects the school’s values and enhances its reputation.

The magazine has transcended its role as a school publication, becoming a powerful tool for strengthening both the PGS brand and fostering a deep connection between the school and its local community.

Over the years, Portsmouth Point magazine has grown to become a significant publication within the PGS community, with a substantial readership that includes students, staff, and parents

By providing a platform for students to express their thoughts and ideas, the magazine has contributed to their personal development and confidence, while also enriching the academic culture by allowing staff to share their expertise and insights.

The magazine’s success underscores the importance of thoughtful design and editorial content in building a sense of pride, belonging, and intellectual vibrancy within a school community.

Close up of printed sheets for Portsmouth Point
Feature article from Portsmouth Point Magazine

Next Steps

Building on the success of Portsmouth Point magazine, TGDH looks forward to continuing our long-standing partnership with Portsmouth Grammar School. Our focus will be on exploring new design innovations that can further enhance the magazine’s impact and engagement, ensuring it remains a vital part of the PGS community. We are committed to supporting PGS in its mission to provide a platform for freedom of thought and open debate, helping to inspire and connect its students, staff, and broader community.

Front and back cover design for Portsmouth Point
“I just wanted to thank you for another fantastic issue. I think it is one of the best we have done, both in terms of the quality of writing and design. I am really grateful for the care as well as the creativity that you have, as always, brought to the project. Thank you for being a pleasure to work with throughout the project.”

James Burkinshaw
English/Head of Careers,
Universities & Scholarship/Sen Teacher
The Portsmouth Grammar School

Our Work in Action