LINCOLNSHIRE, UK. June 2, 2026 – A former teacher with more than 20 years’ classroom experience has launched a new coaching service aimed at helping children build confidence, resilience and a positive mindset both in and outside of school.
Lincolnshire-based Rose Dray, who has become a fully certified children’s confidence and mindset coach, has established Grow Minds Coaching following a career in education and a growing belief that many young people require support beyond what schools are currently able to provide.
The launch comes ahead of the new academic year in September, with Dray planning to work directly with children in schools, at home and through one-to-one coaching sessions designed to support emotional wellbeing, self-confidence and personal development.
Dray’s decision to move into coaching was influenced by both her professional experience and her personal life as the mother autistic twins, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges many young people and families face.
She believes coaching can complement the work already being undertaken in schools by providing dedicated time and personalised support for children who may be struggling with confidence, anxiety or wider emotional challenges.
“After more than 20 years in teaching, I felt there was a growing need for this type of support,” she said. “Schools are working incredibly hard, but there are increasing pressures on staff and limited time available to give children the individual attention they sometimes need.
“Coaching allows me to focus on the child as a whole person and create the space for conversations that can help build confidence and resilience over time.”
Grow Minds Coaching has been designed around a collaborative approach that involves children, families and schools working together wherever possible.
Dray says she has found that working within school environments often provides valuable insight into the wider factors affecting a child’s confidence and wellbeing.
“The idea is to work within schools with children who are struggling, while also supporting families through one-to-one sessions,” she said. “When I work with children in school, I can build relationships with teachers and staff who know them well. It helps create a fuller picture of what is happening and often leads to more open and productive conversations.”
Alongside her coaching work, Dray has also established herself as an author specialising in children’s emotional wellbeing and mindset development.
Over the past 12 months, she has published three books on the subject: Behind The Brave Face, Holding Big Feelings and Big Changes, Brave Steps.
The books explore themes including confidence, emotional regulation, change and resilience, and have been developed as practical resources for both children and parents.
Dray believes growing awareness around children’s mental health and emotional wellbeing has increased demand for specialist support services that sit alongside traditional education.
Research and educational professionals have increasingly highlighted the importance of early intervention when children begin to experience confidence issues, anxiety or difficulties navigating social and academic challenges.
As Grow Minds Coaching develops, Dray is also planning to introduce online coaching programmes, particularly for small groups of children who may benefit from additional support in building confidence and self-esteem.
The online offering is expected to complement existing face-to-face services and increase accessibility for families seeking support outside their local area.
As she prepares for the new school year, Dray says her focus remains on helping children develop the skills and self-belief needed to navigate challenges both inside and outside the classroom.
With a combination of educational experience, coaching qualifications and personal insight, she hopes Grow Minds Coaching will provide an additional source of support for children and families at a time when demand for wellbeing services continues to grow.
