Breaking Barriers in Girls’ School Sport: Highlights from the PADSIS Women’s Sport Conference

“Women need the opportunity, more visibility, more support”

One of the day’s most resonant moments came from Chris Dossett, Chair of PADSIS, who captured the purpose of the conference with a message of clarity and resolve:

This collective spirit guided a packed programme of keynote talks, practical workshops, and open conversations, all rooted in a shared goal: to make school sport a more equitable, empowering space for girls.

From Barriers to Breakthroughs

The day’s agenda tackled some of the most under-discussed – but deeply impactful – issues in girls’ sport:

+Access to properly fitted sports bras

+Managing puberty and menstruation in sport

+The importance of inclusive touring experiences

+Championing girls’ confidence and leadership through sport

Expert speakers brought lived experience and practical solutions to the stage. Abbie Brown, England Rugby 7s Captain, spoke about how her journey was shaped by early touring opportunities and strong role models. Her story illustrated just how influential positive school sport environments can be in shaping future leaders.

Meanwhile, Dr Emma Ross of The Well HQ challenged educators to remove long-standing taboos around the female athlete experience. Her insight into body literacy, mental health, and performance aligned perfectly with the event’s core goal: to create space where girls are understood and supported – not left behind.

A New Standard for Inclusive Touring

As part of its ongoing commitment to inclusive and empowering sport experiences, Edwin Doran Sports Tours announced a new partnership with PEBE, a UK-based leader in performance sports bras.

This partnership will enable free professional sports bra fittings for girls on tour, helping them feel confident, comfortable, and better equipped to perform.

“It’s not just about kit – it’s about confidence,” said a Beth Vermont, Operations Manager for Edwin Doran. “Every girl should feel secure, supported, and able to focus on playing her sport without distraction. This is one simple step that makes a big difference.”

By addressing an often-neglected part of sports preparation, this initiative reinforces Edwin Doran’s belief that tours should reflect the real needs of girls in sport – not a one-size-fits-all model.

A Role for Everyone

Importantly, the conference also emphasised that men must be part of the solution. Many workshops explored how male teachers and coaches can become allies in addressing gender-based disparities – not just by supporting change, but by actively leading it.

Building inclusive programmes is not about separating girls’ sport – it’s about elevating it with intention, ensuring parity in planning, visibility, and investment.

Moving Forward

The PADSIS Women’s Sport Conference made one thing clear: equity in school sport isn’t a nice-to-have – it’s essential. And with leaders, educators, and partners aligned in purpose, real change is not only possible but already underway.

For Edwin Doran Sports Tours, the event reaffirmed their belief that every school tour is an opportunity to build confidence, inspire leadership, and shape futures – especially for girls.

With initiatives like PEBE fittings, tailored girls’ itineraries, and dedicated support for schools, our Edwin Doran team continue to work to remain at the forefront of inclusive, impactful school sport travel.