About

We help families grow together with clarity, connection, and understanding—not just get through the day.

About SPROUT learning & wellbeing

SproutA beginning full of potential; to grow when the environment is right.
Learning – Growth through awareness, insight, curiosity, and understanding—not just academics.
Wellbeing – A grounded, balanced sense of “I’m okay” and “life feels on track.

 

The name Sprout reflects the natural rhythm of growth. Just like a seed, every child holds incredible potential, but for that potential to flourish, they need the right conditions: connection, understanding, and support, alongside rest, movement, and nutrition.

Sprout Learning and Wellbeing grew from a simple truth I saw again and again: when children feel understood and supported in ways that honour their strengths, interests, and unique way of experiencing the world, everything shifts. I wanted to create an environment where understanding each child’s strengths, challenges, and learning style forms the foundation of their support, while also providing a learning environment that is engaging and meaningful.

At Sprout, we support kids and teens who may be quietly struggling or too often misunderstood. Whether they’re navigating ADHD, learning difficulties, anxiety, or simply feeling out of sync with the world around them, we see potential where others might see “problems.” By guiding both children and caregivers, we create the conditions for young people to feel safe, seen, and empowered to thrive, not just survive. Together, we help families build clarity, connection, and compassion.

Whether we’re working with a young athlete building resilience, a child feeling overwhelmed at school, or a parent who feels stuck and unsure, our approach is always individualised, strength-based, and grounded in both research and lived experience. Guided by the PAUSE Framework, we help families deepen understanding, strengthen connection, and take small, consistent steps toward meaningful and lasting change—enhancing the wellbeing of the whole family

                                                     “When a flower doesn’t bloom, you fix the environment in which it grows, not the flower.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                   ― Alexander Den Heijer

 

About ME

Catherine Allen

A passionate educator, parent coach, and advocate for the whole child.

With more than 20 years’ experience supporting children and families across education, sport, health and wellbeing settings, I’ve learned that a child’s self-confidence and self-esteem grows when they feel seen, understood and supported by positive connections with family, friends and teachers.

I’ve spent years studying child development, education, sports science and positive psychology, but without a doubt, the children and teens I’ve had the privilege of working with have been my greatest teachers. They’ve taught me that beneath every behaviour is a story waiting to be heard, and that when a child is truly understood, their gifts and capabilities begin to shine. Their courage, honesty, and creativity fuel my passion to advocate for them in a way that celebrates who they are, not just how they perform.  I know firsthand how much difference the right kind of support can make. 

I grew up a sheltered country kid with big ambitions and boundless energy. I managed the academic side of school, but faced other challenges that gradually wore down my confidence and health. Years later, as a parent, I saw a heartbreaking echo of my own experiences in my children—their spark slowly fading at times during their schooling years either from the pressures of the education system, in classrooms where they weren’t truly seen, or in environments that didn’t let them thrive. I also know what it’s like to be the teacher trying to nurture so many different individuals, even with the best knowledge and intentions. Expectations on educators are immense. So now, I work with parents, students and professionals, providing tailored coaching, practical tools and compassionate guidance that empowers families and young people to thrive. I help kids and teens build executive functioning skills, develop learning confidence, and manage the ups and downs of both school and life. At the same time, I support parents and carers to lead with greater understanding, connection and compassion.

My lived experience informs and guides my work and shapes the deeply personal, practical, and compassionate approach I bring to every family I support. I want families to walk away not just with new strategies, but with a renewed sense of confidence — no longer feeling confused about what to do, but instead trusting themselves, their child, and their own intuition.

If you’re feeling stuck, unsure, or simply seeking a new way forward, I am here to support you.

Why SPROUT

Support you can trust

Empowered Parenting

We equip parents and carers with knowledge and skills to lead with clarity, confidence and compassion.

Over 20 years of Experience

Extensive experience supporting children and families across education, wellbeing, and sport.

Balanced Approach

Our work is grounded in research, practical solutions, and a deep belief in every child’s potential.

Unique Skillset

Qualifications in education, positive psychology, ADHD and learning support, sports science, and yoga.

Nuturing Environment

A welcoming, warm, and calming studio space, surrounded by nature, designed to help families feel supported, relaxed, and focused.

Guided by the PAUSE Framework

Each family’s journey is guided by the power of the PAUSE framework, ensuring growth is thoughtful, structured, and lasting.

Why PAUSE

Life with children can be busy, unpredictable, and at times overwhelming. Those times when everything feels too crazy to pause, are usually when we need it most. Pausing is slowing down just enough to see clearly, connect deeply, and respond with intention. In a world that celebrates constant busyness, choosing to pause is an act of courage.

By pausing in moments of chaos, conflict, or celebration, you:
• Strengthen relationships
• Model calm, reflective behaviour
• Restore your energy to navigate challenges more effectively
• Gain clarity about what matters most

After years of working with families and exploring what truly helps children and teens thrive, I developed the PAUSE Framework a structured but flexible process for clarifying current experiences, enhancing understanding and connection, and guiding next steps.

Every service at Sprout is shaped by the PAUSE Framework, helping families grow in ways that feel meaningful and manageable.

Ready to take the next step? Explore our services or get in touch to see how PAUSE can support your family’s journey.

Ready to support your child with clarity and confidence?

Get in touch today to book a consultation or learn how Sprout can help your family thrive.