{"id":52976,"date":"2026-04-22T11:29:04","date_gmt":"2026-04-22T11:29:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thefamilygrapevine.co.uk\/brighton-hove\/?p=52976"},"modified":"2026-04-22T11:32:11","modified_gmt":"2026-04-22T11:32:11","slug":"brighton-girls-skate-club-celebrates-5th-anniversary-from-lockdown-beginnings-to-thriving-skate-community","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thefamilygrapevine.co.uk\/brighton-hove\/2026\/04\/22\/brighton-girls-skate-club-celebrates-5th-anniversary-from-lockdown-beginnings-to-thriving-skate-community\/","title":{"rendered":"Brighton Girls Skate Club Celebrates 5th Anniversary: From Lockdown Beginnings to Thriving Skate Community"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Brighton Girls Skate Club (BGSC)<\/strong><\/a> 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.<\/p>

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<\/p>

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.<\/p>

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.<\/p>

A Mission Rooted in Inclusion and Confidence<\/h3>

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.<\/p>

From Netball Courts to Mobile Skateparks<\/h3>

\"\"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\u2019s growth reflects both strong demand and its commitment to accessibility.<\/p>

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\u2019s expanding reach.<\/p>

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.<\/p>

Creating Pathways On and Off the Board<\/h3>

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.<\/p>

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\u2019s commitment to long-term development.<\/p>

Core Values Driving Impact<\/h3>

BGSC\u2019s approach is guided by five core principles:<\/p>