The Arrowsmith Program: Brain-Based Cognitive Training for Learning Difficulties

What is the Arrowsmith Program?

The Arrowsmith Program is a brain-based cognitive training program designed to strengthen the underlying cognitive functions involved in learning, attention, memory and reasoning. Delivered online through Empowering Lives, the program supports children, teens and adults experiencing learning difficulties, ADHD, dyslexia and other cognitive challenges.

 Brain-based cognitive training programArrowsmith helps people achieve success in life.
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We Keep the Brain in the Education Equation

Brain-based cognitive training program
Arrowsmith keeps the brain at the centre of learning.
Rather than teaching strategies to compensate for difficulties, the Arrowsmith Program strengthens the brain’s capacity to perform complex tasks. Participants develop the cognitive functions necessary for reading, writing, mathematics, reasoning, emotional intelligence, and problem-solving skills that extend well beyond the classroom.

Our philosophy isn’t about lowering expectations; it’s about empowering participants to achieve them through genuine cognitive growth.

Create Pathways to Success Through Neuroplasticity

The brain can change. The brain is neuroplastic. With the right approach and conditions positive changes happen.
The Arrowsmith Program leverages the brain’s remarkable ability to rewire itself - known as neuroplasticity, to strengthen neural pathways and transform learning capacity. Participants improve their ability to comprehend, think critically, communicate effectively, and engage meaningfully in life.

By addressing the underlying causes of learning challenges, participants gain lasting improvements in independence, confidence, and competence. Their success is not the result of a workaround - it’s the outcome of a stronger, more capable brain.
​Learn more about Neuroplasticity →
Students completing Arrowsmith cognitive exercises
A student working on a cognitive exercise in the Arrowsmith Program.

Cognitive Functions Strengthened by the Arrowsmith Program

Every skill we use daily - reading, writing, comprehension, memory, organisation, and reasoning, depends on underlying cognitive functions.

Arrowsmith’s targeted cognitive exercises build and strengthen these functions, helping participants overcome challenges associated with dyslexia, dyscalculia, dysgraphia, ADHD, executive functioning, processing speed, auditory processing, and more.​
Explore Cognitive Functions →​
Who Is the Arrowsmith Program For?
The Arrowsmith Program is designed for children, teens and adults who experience learning, attention or cognitive challenges despite having the ability and desire to succeed. By strengthening the underlying cognitive functions involved in learning, the program helps participants build greater confidence, independence and capacity in everyday life.
ADHD and Attention Difficulties
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​Difficulty focusing, staying organised, managing distractions or following through on tasks.
Dyscalculia
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Challenges understanding numbers, mathematical concepts and calculations.
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Dyslexia
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Challenges with reading, spelling, decoding words and written language.
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Working Memory, Processing Speed and Executive Function
Difficulty retaining information, following instructions, staying organised or keeping up with demands.
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Dysgraphia
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Difficulties expressing thoughts in writing, organising ideas or handwriting.
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Adults Seeking Cognitive Improvement

​Improve cognitive capacity for study, work, decision-making and everyday life.
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The Arrowsmith Program does not focus on teaching academic content or compensatory strategies. Instead, it strengthens the cognitive functions that support learning, attention, memory, reasoning, processing speed and executive functioning. By targeting the underlying causes of learning difficulties, participants can experience meaningful and lasting change.
Learn more about how the Arrowsmith Program may help with ADHD, learning difficulties, working memory challenges and executive functioning difficulties.​
Discover Your Cognitive Profile

Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to common questions about the Arrowsmith Program and brain-based cognitive training.

What is the Arrowsmith Program?

The Arrowsmith Program is a brain-based cognitive training program designed to strengthen the underlying cognitive functions that support learning, attention, memory, reasoning and problem-solving.

How does the Arrowsmith Program work?

The program uses targeted cognitive exercises to strengthen specific brain functions. These exercises are based on neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to change and form new connections over time.

Can the Arrowsmith Program be completed online?

Yes. Empowering Lives delivers the Arrowsmith Program online through structured classes with guided support. Students can participate from home while still receiving regular monitoring and encouragement.

Can I participate in the Arrowsmith Program if I live outside Australia?

Yes. Because Empowering Lives delivers the Arrowsmith Program online, students can participate from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. We currently support students across Australia and internationally.

Who is the Arrowsmith Program suitable for?

The Arrowsmith Program may be suitable for children, teens and adults who experience learning, attention or cognitive challenges, as well as individuals who want to enhance their cognitive capacity. This can include ADHD, dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, working memory difficulties, processing speed challenges and executive functioning difficulties.

How long does the Arrowsmith Program take?

Timeframes vary depending on individual needs, goals and cognitive profile. Many students participate for several months to two years. A recommended plan is developed after the questionnaire or assessment process.

Can adults participate in the Arrowsmith Program?

Yes. Adults can participate in the Arrowsmith Program to strengthen cognitive functions involved in learning, memory, attention, reasoning, organisation and workplace performance.

Is the Arrowsmith Program suitable for ADHD?

The Arrowsmith Program may support individuals with ADHD or attention difficulties by strengthening cognitive functions involved in focus, working memory, reasoning, self-regulation and information processing.

Can the Arrowsmith Program help dyslexia?

The Arrowsmith Program does not teach reading in the same way tutoring does. Instead, it targets cognitive functions that support reading, spelling, comprehension and written language. This may help students with dyslexia build stronger learning capacity over time.

How is the Arrowsmith Program different from tutoring?

Tutoring usually focuses on academic content and strategies. The Arrowsmith Program focuses on strengthening the cognitive functions that make learning possible, including memory, reasoning, attention, processing and problem-solving.

Still have questions?

Contact our team
Learn More About
Cognitive Functions
The Brain's Mental Processes
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Neuroplasticity
The Brain's Ability to Change

Overcoming Learning Challenges for a Better Life

By improving cognitive functions through structured brain training, Arrowsmith participants often experience life-changing gains in learning and self-confidence. The program doesn’t just improve academic performance - it enhances emotional well-being, resilience, and adaptability across all areas of life.

What do these learning challenges have in common?
Answer: The Brain.

Learn More About the Difficulties Arrowsmith Can Help With →
Learn More About the Difficulties Arrowsmith Can Help With

With Us for a Short Time - Transformed for a Lifetime

Students completing Arrowsmith cognitive exercises
Former Arrowsmith student - empowered for success in life
Unique to Empowering Lives is our goal to support participants only for as long as needed to create lasting change. Once the necessary cognitive functions are strengthened, participants transition confidently to life beyond Arrowsmith - equipped with new tools for learning, working, and living.

Every participant who completes an Arrowsmith Cognitive Assessment receives an estimated program length tailored to their individual profile. Progress is regularly monitored and shared, ensuring a clear picture of the cognitive growth being achieved through the program.
Complete the Arrowsmith Program Online From Anywhere
Empowering Lives delivers the Arrowsmith Program online, allowing children, teens and adults throughout Australia and around the world to participate from home. Through live online classes, structured support and regular progress monitoring, students can access cognitive training regardless of location.
Ready to Begin?
​Discover how the Arrowsmith Program at Empowering Lives can help you or someone you care about unlock their full potential.
Empowering Lives is an initiative of 
Teen Challenge Queensland​




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