Campus safety and support for students is vital to the success of our community and is provided in many ways. From 24-hour security when the School is in session to keycards, security cameras and screening and selection procedures, every effort to ensure best practices for an independent school are taken. Portsmouth Abbey collaborates with local law enforcement for training and emergency preparedness and regularly reviews policies and procedures around community health and safety.
To ensure appropriate boundaries between constituents of our community, whether they be students, teachers, administrators, or staff members, the Abbey partners with Praesidium, an organization staffed by social workers, human resource professionals, attorneys and researchers. Praesidium assesses and certifies the policies and procedures that the School has worked to enact. By collaborating with an independent, unaffiliated entity, a system of checks and balances has been created that enhances accountability when it comes to identifying, reporting, and following up on emotional, physical, or sexual abuse. Students and employees adhere to a Code of Conduct and faculty and staff also complete yearly training on recognizing “red flag” behaviors as well as upholding appropriate boundaries with students.
Mental health awareness and access to mental health services are increasingly important for young adults. Supportive resources include increased visibility of mental health counselors on campus with appointments made the same day or within 24 hours. Space is also available for students preferring to access telehealth services. Programming around mental and spiritual wellness is also an important aspect of the student experience on campus.
Students at Portsmouth Abbey School are surrounded by caring adults, whether they are in the classroom, on the athletic field, on stage, or in their house. Every student meets weekly with four to six classmates and a faculty advisor to discuss any issues related to their mental, emotional, or spiritual well-being. These faculty members creatively support the academic, athletic, artistic, and social success of their advisees throughout their Abbey tenure. Additionally, each student has three house parents who oversee study hall, lead evening prayers, and cultivate camaraderie amongst residents of the house. They also appoint prefects and Form VI students who liaise between students and house parents and aid in maintaining the discipline and togetherness that makes a healthy living community.
Student Handbook 
