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About Us

At The Step Up Project, every young person is seen, heard, and celebrated for who they are. We provide safe, supportive spaces, and embracing individuality. Our programs in mentoring, creative arts, and personal development empower young people to step up to life’s opportunities with courage and curiosity.

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Our Story

At The Step Up Project, we believe every young person deserves to be truly seen, heard, and supported. We know that when young people feel valued and safe, they can explore who they are, develop their strengths, and share their unique gifts with the world.

Our team has spent years working alongside children, teens, and young adults, witnessing the difference a supportive, flexible, and creative approach can make. That experience inspired us to create a space where individuality is celebrated, growth is nurtured, and every step forward — big or small — is recognised as meaningful progress.

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Shannon Thomas (1)_edited_edited.png

Our Approach

We know that no two young people are the same. That’s why our approach is flexible, person-centred, and tailored to individual needs, communication styles, and learning preferences.

We work closely with participants, families, and carers to ensure every service is supportive, practical, and empowering.


Whether through skill-building, therapeutic activities, mentoring, or simply being a reliable presence, we aim to provide experiences that help young people grow in confidence, independence, and self-expression.

What makes us different?

What sets The Step Up Project apart is our blend of professional expertise, creativity, and lived experience. We don’t just follow a set program — we adapt, innovate, and use a variety of tools, from art and music to fitness and life coaching, to connect with young people in ways that feel authentic and engaging.

 

We’re not about ticking boxes. We’re about creating a safe, judgement-free space where young people can be their messy, brilliant selves, build meaningful skills, and create memories that stay with them long after the session ends.

Our Skills & Experience

Our team brings together knowledge from residential care, youth work, social services, community engagement, and creative industries. We combine formal training — including social work studies, child and youth intervention qualifications, personal training and nutrition guidance, and life coaching — with hands-on experience in mentoring, music, art, and holistic support.

 

This mix allows us to meet young people where they’re at, providing guidance, encouragement, and opportunities to thrive in multiple aspects of life, from emotional wellbeing and practical skills to creative expression and personal growth.

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Shannon Thomas (1)_edited_edited.png
Shannon Thomas (1)_edited_edited.png

Looking Ahead

Our vision is to expand The Step Up Project into a vibrant hub for young people, offering extended programs, youth groups, events, and workshops. We want to create a safe, inclusive space where children and young people can connect, build skills, explore creativity, and just be themselves — free from judgement and full of possibility.

Our Values

C

Connection

Building strong, respectful relationships that form the foundation for growth.

E

Empowerment

Helping young people discover their strengths and believe in their potential.

C

Creativity

Using imaginative and hands-on approaches to inspire learning and self-expression.

I

Integrity

Acting with honesty, respect, and genuine care in everything we do.

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