From Mum to Business Owner: Hayley McCallum’s Ready Steady Go Kids Journey

Hayley McCallum’s story is a beauty. What started as a parent looking for a fun, active class for her little ones turned into a career she genuinely loves and a business journey that has spanned more than a decade. It is the kind of story that feels distinctly Australian, grounded in family life, community connection, and having a real crack at something new.

How did Hayley first discover Ready Steady Go Kids?

Hayley first came across Ready Steady Go Kids around fifteen years ago when her children, Cooper and Ava, were just two and four. Like so many parents, she was on the lookout for an activity that would keep her kids moving, learning, and having a ball. Ready Steady Go Kids stood out because it was not focused on just one sport. Instead, it introduced children to a terrific mix of activities, helping them build confidence, coordination, and enthusiasm in a fun and supportive setting.

That variety was a huge drawcard. Rather than locking little ones into one path too early, the program gave Cooper and Ava the chance to try different skills, different movements, and different challenges. For Hayley, that made perfect sense. It felt fresh, practical, and full of value.

A special reflection was shared by Franchisor Danie O'Connor, who says, 'Hayley and her Greensborough and Epping regions will always hold such a special place in my heart. Hayley was one of my very first members when I started as a Franchisee, and I still remember her arriving with her beautiful children, Cooper and Ava. From the very beginning, it was clear how much Hayley loved Ready Steady Go Kids and what the program meant to her family. To see Hayley grow from parent, to coach, to Franchisee has been incredibly special. I am so proud of everything she has built, and it has been an absolute joy to watch her journey unfold.'

What made the program so valuable in those early years?

Of course, the running, kicking, throwing, and jumping were all part of the appeal, but the benefits went well beyond physical activity. Hayley saw her children learning how to take turns, listen carefully, join in, and give things a go. Those early childhood years are packed with important milestones, and the Ready Steady Go Kids class structure supported plenty of them.

The sessions blended movement with learning in a way that felt natural and engaging. Counting, following instructions, and participating in group activities were all woven into the experience. It was active learning, plain and simple, and it worked a treat.

How did Hayley go from parent to coach?

In 2014, with her daughter settled into school, Hayley stepped into a coaching role with her local Ready Steady Go Kids franchise. It was a great fit for that stage of family life. The hours aligned well with the school day, the work was energetic and upbeat, and every session brought something different.

For Hayley, coaching was more than just a job. It gave her the chance to be active, connect with families, and be part of a program she already believed in. She had seen firsthand what the classes could do for children, so joining the team felt like a natural next step. It was a ripper way to turn personal experience into meaningful work.

What inspired her to become a franchise owner?

After about eighteen months as a coach, an opportunity popped up to buy the Greensborough franchise. Taking on a business was a big move, especially for someone who had not owned one before, but the flexibility of the model made it incredibly appealing. Hayley could build something of her own while still being present for her family, and that balance mattered enormously.

Twelve months later, she also purchased the Epping franchise. Today, she manages regions including Eltham, Greensborough, Lower Plenty, and South Morang. It is an impressive achievement, but it has grown from steady commitment, genuine care, and plenty of hard yakka over the years.

What makes the Ready Steady Go Kids program stand out?

Ready Steady Go Kids has a few features that really set it apart. The small coach:child ratios helps keep sessions engaging, organised, and supportive. Children are introduced to ten different sports over two terms, giving them a broad and exciting foundation rather than a narrow experience.

The program is also carefully tailored across four age groups, which means children are met at the right developmental stage. That is important because a toddler and a preschooler need very different challenges and support. Add in colourful equipment, thoughtfully designed circuits, and small class sizes, and the whole experience feels lively, welcoming, and easy for children to enjoy.

How has business ownership supported family life?

One of the biggest wins for Hayley has been the flexibility that comes with running her own Ready Steady Go Kids business. Over the years, she has been able to work through the full school journey of her children, from the early primary years right through to senior secondary school. One child is now in Year Twelve, which says a lot about how long this path has supported her family.

School drop offs, pick ups, sports days, assemblies, and the everyday moments that matter have all remained part of her life. That is no small thing. For many parents, finding work that fits around family can feel like a tall order. For Hayley, this business has made that balance possible, and that has been one of the most rewarding parts of the journey.

What kind of support is available within the franchise network?

Like any new venture, buying a franchise can feel a bit daunting at first. Hayley certainly felt those nerves in the beginning. The good news is that she was not expected to figure it all out on her own. Danie and the head office team, and the wider network of franchisees were there to provide support, guidance, and practical advice.

That network has made a real difference. Even though each franchise owner runs their own business, there is a strong sense of being part of something bigger. Questions can be asked. Ideas can be shared. Challenges can be worked through together. It is a supportive setup, and that community spirit is worth its weight in gold.

Who is Hayley outside of work?

Hayley lives in Melbourne with her husband and their two children, now aged seventeen and nineteen. She met her husband more than thirty years ago at Mount Buller, which is a cracking start to any love story. Travel has long been one of the family’s great passions, and future adventures are still very much on the radar.

Every summer, the family heads off in their caravan for five weeks, making the most of the great outdoors and enjoying time together. Staying active is simply part of who they are. Hayley is also a loyal Essendon Bombers supporter, and like plenty of long suffering fans around Australia, she is still waiting and hoping for that next premiership.