Kathy Cook

Director, Now Then Coaching

Kathy is the Director of Now Then Coaching, a practice rooted in compassion, connection and a deep understanding of both education and family life. Since qualifying as a teacher in 2006, she has worked across roles including teacher, SENCo and Assistant Educational Psychologist, alongside her lived experience as a parent. She has also volunteered as a telephone counsellor for the Sheffield charity The Line, supporting children and young people to access help, further strengthening her empathetic and relational approach.

Now Then Coaching was born from Kathy’s growing concern about the increasing pressures placed on young people, families and schools, and the impact this can have on relationships. Through her work, she has seen first-hand how, at the most extreme, gaps in support can bring education systems uncomfortably close to youth justice pathways—reinforcing her commitment to early understanding, intervention and connection.Kathy has worked across a wide range of educational settings, including primary, secondary and specialist provisions, as well as Alternative Provision. This breadth of experience has deepened her understanding of the many ways children communicate their needs. She is particularly passionate about helping adults reframe their understanding of behaviour, recognising that not all behaviours are loud or disruptive—some are quiet, internalised and often overlooked.

At the heart of Kathy’s approach is the belief that no child is “bad”. She encourages a move away from labels such as “naughty” or “disengaged”, instead promoting curiosity, reflection and connection. Through coaching, training and support, Kathy empowers families and professionals to focus on what can be influenced in the present, creating meaningful and lasting change for the future.