The History of PCA
Portsmouth Christian Academy (PCA) stands as New England’s largest non-denominational Christian school, set on a scenic 50-acre campus along the Bellamy River in Dover, NH. As a Preschool to Grade 12 school, PCA provides a comprehensive and rigorous educational experience that inspires students’ academic growth, spiritual development, and character formation. Our school is thoughtfully organized into four distinct divisions—Preschool (PCAP), Lower School (K-5), Middle School (6-8), and Upper School (9-12)—each nurturing students through progressive stages that support their educational and personal development.
The story of PCA is one of faith, vision, and growth, from humble beginnings in the late 1970s as Bethel Christian Academy to today’s vibrant learning community with over 630 students. Across the years, more than 1,000 graduates have ventured into college, careers, and service with a foundation in academic excellence and Christ-centered integrity.
As we celebrate the milestones of our school’s journey, this page connects PCA’s history with significant world events, highlighting how our community has evolved within the larger story of global progress and change. Here, you’ll see moments in time—both in the world and on our campus—that have shaped who we are today and how we prepare our students to be thoughtful, service-oriented leaders of tomorrow.
Ranked the #1 Private K-12 School in New Hampshire by Niche for six consecutive years, Portsmouth Christian Academy has proven that a Christ-centered school can also be academically excellent. Our students consistently test higher than the state and national averages, and they do so while learning that God has gifted each of them with specific skills and talents they’ll use to impact our world for good.
