Brighton Girls Skate Club (BGSC) is celebrating five years of empowering girls, women, and marginalised genders through skateboarding marking an inspiring journey from four young skaters during lockdown to a vibrant, inclusive community.
Founded in July 2020 by Sarah Turton (formerly Brownlow), BGSC began as informal weekly sessions at Hove Lagoon Skatepark, bringing together a small group of
seven-year-old girls navigating isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic. What started as a way to foster friendship and connection quickly revealed a deeper impact.
Recognising its value, Brighton Girls formalised a partnership with BGSC in April 2021. Since then, the club has grown into a structured programme offering after-school clubs, weekend sessions, and adult courses, delivering over 800 sessions and supporting more than 400 participants on their Montpelier site.
A Mission Rooted in Inclusion and Confidence
BGSC is dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and empowering environment where individuals can learn skateboarding without the intimidation often associated with traditional skate spaces. Through small-group coaching and inclusive programming, the club provides a clear and welcoming pathway into skateboarding and its wider community very much in line with the Bold, Kind and Resilient values of Brighton Girls.
From Netball Courts to Mobile Skateparks
What began with a handful of skateboards on a netball court at Brighton Girls has evolved into a fully equipped mobile skatepark featuring quarter pipes, flat banks, grind boxes, kickers, and a rail. The club’s growth reflects both strong demand and its commitment to accessibility.
In April 2023, BGSC celebrated its second anniversary with a skate jam in partnership with Brighton Girls, attended by over 75 participants. The event featured taster sessions, masterclasses led by guest skateboarder Cath Shanks, and a community showcase highlighting the club’s expanding reach.
Later that year, BGSC extended its offering beyond schools, launching community weekend sessions for young people and adult beginner and improver sessions. The club also continues to build partnerships, including collaborations with Board AF and Brighton Youth Centre, and hosts regular free community meetups at local skateparks.
Creating Pathways On and Off the Board
Beyond teaching skateboarding, BGSC supports participants through volunteering opportunities, Duke of Edinburgh placements, and coaching development, helping build a more inclusive future within the sport.
One standout example is Sapphire Laird, who first attended a BGSC skate jam at age 13. After volunteering with the club, she progressed into a paid coaching role at 16, illustrating BGSC’s commitment to long-term development.
Core Values Driving Impact
BGSC’s approach is guided by five core principles:
- Progress Over Perfection
- Safe & Supportive First
- Confidence & Resilience
- Practical Skill-Building
- Pathways Beyond the Session
Impact by the Numbers (2020-2025):
- 800+ sessions delivered
- 400+ girls, women, and marginalised genders supported
- Up to 72 weekly skaters across school and community programmes
- 9 women supported into paid roles within a traditionally male-dominated sector
- Growth from a grassroots setup to a fully equipped mobile skatepark
Founder’s Statement
“What started as a way to help a small group of girls make friends has grown into something much bigger,” said founder Sarah Turton. “It’s about confidence, resilience, and feeling like you belong. Seeing complete beginners become confident skaters and young people like Sapphire step into coaching roles has been incredible.”
Looking Ahead: Year Six and Beyond
As BGSC enters its sixth year, plans are underway to transition into a Community Interest Company (CIC). This will enable access to funding, support long-term sustainability, and increase accessibility so more people can take part regardless of financial background.
The organisation also aims to expand opportunities for girls, women, and marginalised genders to train, work, and build careers within skateboarding.
Follow BGSC: Instagram: @brighton_girls_skate_club
