Portobello High School has launched its new Girls Cycling Programme, bringing together more than 70 young women from across the school community.
The programme draws inspiration from a remarkable chapter in the school’s history.
In 1952, Portobello High School became one of the first schools in Edinburgh to send a group of 40 girls to Glenmore Lodge, Scotland’s National Outdoor Training Centre. Those young women embraced the challenge of outdoor adventure and helped pave the way for generations of girls to experience the personal growth, confidence and resilience that come from stepping beyond their comfort zone.
The Girls Cycling Programme is about far more than riding bikes. It’s been developed to address the significant decline in girls’ participation in sport and physical activity during adolescence, creating a supportive environment where young women can build confidence, develop leadership skills, improve their wellbeing and form lasting friendships.
Planned activities include social rides, track cycling sessions at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome, sportives, races, bike maintenance workshops, leadership development opportunities and community cycling projects.
The programme sits within the school’s wider Pedal Power Porty strategy, which has already seen cycling participation grow significantly. More than 150 young people are now involved in cycling activities, including the PHS Singletrack Mountain Bike Team, School of Cycling programme, Cycling Ambassadors initiative, active travel projects and overseas touring opportunities.
A key feature of the programme is the role played by the school’s S6 Cycling Ambassadors, who will support younger pupils, help deliver activities and act as role models.
The launch comes at an exciting time for cycling in Scotland, with Edinburgh preparing to host the Grand Départ of the Tour de France in 2027. The school is exploring opportunities for the girls to attend stages of the Tour de France Femmes and take part in a cycling challenge linked to the arrival of the Tour in Edinburgh.
Transport and Environment Convener, Councillor Stephen Jenkinson said: “I’m delighted to see this new initiative getting off the ground and I have no doubt that it will see many girls benefitting in the months and years to come. Developing an interest in cycling at a young age sets you up for a lifetime of adventure, health, and excitement.
“We want Edinburgh to be a city where everyone can get around quickly, easily, and safely – particularly through more sustainable ways such as cycling.
“I wish the new scheme every success and my thanks go to all those who have helped to get it off the ground.”
Iris, S6 Cycling Ambassador, said: “One of the things I’m most excited about is seeing girls realise they can do things they never thought possible.
“Cycling has given me confidence, independence and some amazing experiences, and now we have the opportunity to help other girls discover that for themselves.
“It’s about much more than riding a bike – it’s about building friendships, supporting each other and having the confidence to try something new.”
Joy, S6 Cycling Ambassador, added: “I think what makes this programme special is that it is for everyone.
“You don’t have to be the fastest rider or have lots of experience. Everyone starts somewhere. We want younger girls to feel welcomed, supported and part of a team. Hopefully we’ll inspire more girls to stay active, challenge themselves and enjoy all the opportunities that cycling can bring.”
Further Information:
- The school entered over 70 young people into the recent Edinburgh Schools Mountain Bike Championships.
- The programme includes a strong focus on inclusion, leadership development, wellbeing and active travel.
- Participants are aged 11–17 and represent the full diversity of the school community.
- The initiative is supported by staff, volunteers, parents, and community partners.
- The programme is being delivered in partnership with Livity Youth Scotland, one of the school’s key charity partners, helping to extend opportunities beyond Portobello High School and engage young people from across the Portobello and Craigmillar communities. Through this partnership, the programme aims to remove barriers to participation and ensure that more young people can access the physical, social and wellbeing benefits of cycling.
- We are excited to work alongside Scottish Cycling over the coming year as we build on this momentum and continue to inspire the next generation of female cyclists.
