The Study Sessions: from The Study Buddy

You can almost hear the collective sigh of relief from those of us who've now come the end of the exam period road. Now all we have to do is wait for the results. But amongst us there are year 10 parents, the next cohort of GCSE studying families, considering the trek ahead as they leave the relative comfort of year 10 to the adventure that is exam year. So just what is the best foot forward on this journey? To end season 3 of The Study Sessions Podcast we're thinking about the next cohort and how to prepare for success. Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Rachel Stuart - academic coach and founder of The Mindset Lab.    In this episode we'll be covering:  ·        Is the summer a good time to think about academic goals? ·        How do you go about setting academic goals? ·        How much should students/parents think about mock previous exams in preparing for 2023 GCSEs? ·        Are there coaching ‘tricks' that parents can use to help motivate their children? ·        What should students (and parents) have in place to start the next academic year on the right foot? This podcast series talks to a range of experts, parents and students about studying, with practical tips on surviving and thriving in revision and exams. Why not take a look back over the last three seasons' episodes for a wealth of tips and advice. Find out more about The Study Buddy at www.thestudybuddy.com Produced by Pineapple Audio Production. 

The end of exams brings with it an almost palpable lifting of a weight. The hard work has been done – or not – and now all you have to do is wait. And I say “all” like it's easy in itself. For some this waiting period can be a little fraught too. So what are the best ways to approach this hinterland between exams, results and our little darling's next steps? This week I'm delighted to be joined by Andy Scott-Evans. And is the Head Teacher of Becket Keys Church of England School in Essex where he has been head for nearly 10 years. In this episode we ask: Do you think it's worth trying to pick over the bones of their freshly sat exam? There's a temptation to say “oh well they don't really matter” if things haven't gone well. Weighing the relative importance of GCSEs for students How best to use the time between now and results (and start of term) Should students be mindful of their CVs during this time? Advice for results day and aftermath

If there's one thing more stressful than revision for students – and us parents – then it's the actual exam period. Many of us will feel like life is on a knife edge not knowing what to do for the best. Just how can we move past the fluctuating moods and bouts of anxiety, to try and make this a productive period?  The exam season has started in earnest – or should that be in anger?!  It's an important and tricky time to navigate. All three seasons of our podcast have been hopefully building to this moment. With episodes ranging from coping with stress, through to the importance of a good diet. In response to some of the common questions The Study Buddy gets asked, I've cherry-picked a few gems from the last 87 episodes to help.  In this episode we cover:  My child doesn't seem to care at all. My teen wants only 8s and 9s  Where is the pressure coming from and should we tackle that? How can I help my child when it gets too much?  Should we be preparing our child for the worst, just in case? Is it too late now to be doing anything? It's exam day, what should they eat? In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There's a broad presumption that after school there's A levels and then onto university for a degree. A lot of young people just seem to get swept along on this fast-flowing river of higher education. But with increasing options and alternatives, are we doing enough to make sure that our teens know what else is out there for them? This week Nathan, founder of The Study Buddy, is chatting with Faith. Faith has taken the decision not to go off to university and instead has taken up an apprenticeship. In fact a financial crime apprentice at Lloyds Bank. Faith is also featured in the Government's ‘Get the Jump' Skills for Life campaign.  Get The Jump" Skills For Life is an initiative aimed at helping 14-19 year olds understand the choices available to them as they take their next step in education and training, and inspiring them by highlighting some of the future jobs these could lead to. Visit gov.uk/get-the-jump for more information on the different routes that are available – after the episode, of course! In this episode, we hear Faith explain her reasoning for following the apprenticeship route, despite an expectation that Uni is the next step for teens after college. Faith talks openly and enthusiastically about her chosen path - and it's really refreshing to listen to! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

It's not long now until the exams. It's a time when nerves can get frayed, and tensions run high. This is the stage of revision that is most marked by the rhetorical questions like my personal favourite: Shouldn't you be revising? Wouldn't it be great if there were answers out there for the issues that plague us… In this week's episode, The Study Buddy founder, Nathan McGurl, is answering some of the most common questions we get asked about revision and the run-up to exams. He is joined by his GCSE-facing daughter, Emily, who shares the student perspective too. We cover:  How much revision teens should be doing Lack of care and concern about the exams Teens saying they're revising, but not actually doing much Students putting things off until the last minute Focusing on one subject (or ignoring a subject) In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

“I've been revising for ages” is often something that battle weary parents will have heard when asking how it's going. As if lapsed time, spent near an open book or with a YouTube video playing a good use of time. But to be fair, it's not just the procrastinators and the avoiders that struggle with the actual how of revising, even conscientious students can get lured into spending hours prettifying notes or highlighting textbooks, without knowing what value it does or doesn't add. So, just what are the dos and don'ts when it comes to making the most of that precious revision time? In this episode Nathan is joined by Kate Jones - in her second Study Sessions appearance. A History teacher by trade, Kate is the author of several education books, with a focus on cognitive science and in particular retrieval practice. This week we are taking a practical look at some of the revision techniques that will help your teen's performance in the exams. Including flashcards, blurting and brain dumps, elaboration and past papers. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Keeping up with the Jones' was always used as an expression about consumerism, upgrading the washing machine, getting a fancier car, holidaying to the Costa Del Sol – if my Essex childhood was ever in any doubt, this is proof positive! At some point it seemed that parenting fell into this way of thinking, peering over the fence to compare grades or revision effort. But that's not what it's about – is it? In this episode hear from mum of two Zoe talk about how things are going. Her eldest is in his first year at college while her daughter is preparing for GCSEs this summer. As a general rule, these episodes tend to focus on helping to improve something, or fixing something. Here though we refreshingly hear about a sense of calm. That's not to say there's any smugness or even insta-whitewashing, just normal life! And very refreshing it is too! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

The run-up to exams is an anxious time for all teens – and their parents. A certain amount of stress is not only normal, it can also be a good thing. It shows that the outcome is important. However, some young people feel that pressure to perform much more than others. Sometimes to a worrying extent. But just what can parents do if their child finds themselves struggling under the weight of it all? This week sees the return of Dr Dominique Thompson to the show. Dom is a former University GP, TEDx speaker and author of the utterly indispensable “How To Grow A Grown Up”. In this episode, Dom explains the dangers of perfectionism and setting unsustainable targets. We explore how to alleviate the pressure that many teens face with some great practical tips. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There's a widely recognised link between how well teens do in their exams – and in school generally – and the kind of interest and support they get at home over around their education. At least that's how I justify any fleeting moments of overbearing nagging to my children – and to be honest, to myself. But not all support is created equal, so just how can we be more deliberate a focused in our attempts to help our young people prepare for their exams? This week Nathan is chatting with Helen Howell. Helen is the Director of English in a Greater Manchester secondary school. Helen has recently authored the fantastic – The Revision Revolution – How to build a culture of effective study in your school. In this episode Helen explains why school's approach to revision needs to change. We also explore how parents can support their exam facing teens, with practical tips and advice. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

If you ask any exam facing student whether they want to fail, they will tell you they don't. Of course. And invariably they'll know that to not fail (but especially to do well) they have to revise a bit. But strangely this acceptance doesn't always translate into action. So just what is it that causes the “does not compute” error that's preventing our teens from getting on with revision? This week Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - is taking you step by step through the process of creating a winning revision schedule. From how to approach that awkward initial conversation with your teen, through to celebrating the successes this episode will have you up and running in no time! For those wanting to take advantage of the free product that Nathan mentions in the episode, the code is PODCAST In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

“I've got loads of time”, “It won't take me long” or “I'll do it later” come up time and time again as the top procrastination tactics with our teens. The fact that these things are rarely true does not mean it's easy to convince them otherwise.  So what is behind our teens' often dysfunctional relationship with time? This week our parent-guest is dad to two teens, Matt. His children are Lily, who took her A Levels last year and Joe, who is preparing for GCSE in the summer.  If you have a teen who is prone to put things off, and not understand where the time has gone, this is the episode that will reassure you that we're in the same boat! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Having children is exhausting. I'm not daft I guess I would have realised that would be the case when they were babies, toddlers and even growing up. But no one warned me that this was a perpetual thing right up until they fly the nest – and in some cases beyond. A child can be a handful, two or more - an Olympic event. Wouldn't it be great if we could leave them to do more for themselves... This week's episode is with mum of SIX, Julia.  Julie shares thoughts from four children who've been through exams, and as child number five approaches GCSEs in the summer. It makes for a great listen. While the majority of us have one or two children to contend with, we can learn a lot from Julia's experiences. Including notes on perhaps how her children are more self-directed than your typical teen. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

It's been a whole two episodes since we mentioned the impact of COVID on our teen's education.  That was never going to last! In recognition of the fact that those sitting exams this year – being year 11 and year 13 students – have had two years of interrupted teaching and learning, the exam boards have now released what is called Advance Information for the exams. In brief, this is a list of the topics that will be the focus of the big mark questions. On the face of it, that sounds great. But is it actually going to be useful as useful to our teens in the long run – and the short term? This week I'm delighted to be joined by Dawn Cox – in her second Study Sessions appearance. Dawn is Head of Religious Studies in an Essex secondary school. Dawn is also a prolific blogger and tweeter covering not just RE topics, but teaching and learning in general. She has a particular interest in effective exam preparation. Just like Dawn's last episode from Dec 2020, this is jam-packed with great advice for parents and teens. Given the release of Advance Information for GCSE, A Levels and other qualifications, we consider the impact of proving a "heads up" on exam content for students. The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There's something about sugary, or creamy, or fried that screams 'treat'. Well, it does to my mind. There are those for whom a crunchy carrot baton and organic hummus are a reward. For most of us, though, I suspect we'd walk blinkered past a quinoa and courgette tray bake in favour of a doughnut any day of the week. But are we missing a trick by being slaves to our tastebuds rather than paying attention to what our bodies might actually need? This week we welcome Nutritional Therapist Louise Mercieca to the show. In the show, Louise tackles some of the time-honoured traditions around our eating habits, especially snacks, and explains why they do not serve us - and our teens - well. We cover eating habits as well as some of the key nutrients we should be looking for to help our children be at their best for revision and exams. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

They say that around 80% of new years resolutions will fail by mid-Feb. That's an awful lot of promises to revise harder for students and “I'll stay stress-free” for parents that will have fallen by the wayside. But these things are important to see through. So just how is it that we gear ourselves up for success and try to make new better habits stick? This week our returning guest is behavioural change expert Shahroo Izadi - author of The Kindness Method. Shahroo explains why resolutions tend to fail and importantly, she explains what we should do about it! It's an especially poignant episode given promises to study more will often be under pressure around this time. Shahroo offers practical advice and tips on how to help overcome the often felt barriers. We also hear how we can be kinder to ourselves when things of off track. This is vitally important for the teens in our life who could so easily start to become overwhelmed and anxious. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

For most of us, a successful week of revision comes from us not having to nag or coerce our children – well not too much at least. The idea that there could be some symbiotic relationship, where parent and child actually grow and thrive throughout all of this might feel like a fiction too far. But is this holy grail of parenting really as far from our reach as we might think? In a Study Sessions first, this week Nathan is chatting with Mother and son duo, Claire and Tom. Tom took his GCSEs last year and is currently studying A Levels at college. They openly talk about Tom's educational needs and how they worked together to find ways to help Tom achieve his best in his courses. We explore some of their approaches and why both thought that it works. It is an inspiring attitude they have. This is a great, uplifting episode. All too often we can get caught up in the here and now and forget the "why" of what we're doing. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There's not a parent amongst us who doesn't want their child to do well. Them doing well gives them more options. It will raise their self-esteem and confidence. And often, from our point of view, it's what we know they are truly capable of…. But is there a danger at some point do we become more invested in them reaching these arbitrary exam-driven goals on their behalf and lose sight of who they are actually for? Is there a risk that we begin to feel responsible for their achievements? This week's guest is Katie, mum to two teens, with her eldest taking his GCSEs in the summer. This is a fantastically honest and open episode. Katie shares her concerns about Liam's revision habits and her seeking counselling to understand her own responses. There is no holding back in explaining how she got caught up effectively believing that her son's results were a direct reflection on her.  In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions. Update Description

As we ring in the new year, we're often symbolically determined to make a fresh start. For thousands of students, there's renewed vigour – if not enthusiasm – to revise. And a correlated number of parents who are promising to make sure that they do. But you can't expect a change by doing the same things, so what is it that'll make this year's study resolutions stick? This week's guest is Lee Elliot Major. Lee is the Professor of Social Mobility at the University of Exeter. He's also the author of "The Good Parent Educator". Lee discusses the ways in which parents can support their teens. Amongst other issues, we hear about the parenting dilemma around involvement and the importance of nurturing self-esteem. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

The end of term reports are in. In many households, this can hold more sway over Christmas harmony than Santa's naughty and nice lists. But are we right to put so much store in them? By which I mean the predicted grades not Santa's lists, obviously. This week's guest is David Didau. David is Senior Lead Practitioner for English at Ormiston Academies Trust. As well as running his blog – The Learning Spy – which is widely recognised as one of the most influential education blogs in the UK, he turns his hand to training and consulting. But that's not all! He's also the author of a number of education and cognitive science books including, “Making Kids Cleverer”.  In the episode, David talks us through how target grades are determined at the end of key stage two. He explains why this is an imperfect system and lacks real meaning in terms of goal setting to students and parents. We also talk through the information that parents really do want when it comes to their students and how to find it out. For those of us outside the world of education, this could be quite an eye-opener. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers about GCSE and A Level exams in 2022. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing GCSE and A-Level revision in the run-up to exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

This week's guest is teen, Emily. She's taking her GCSE exams in 2022. She talks openly about motivation (or lack of)  even though she knows the exams are important. She also explains why she wouldn't mind if exams were cancelled. It's great to have a teen perspective. Often, as adults, we have a more jaded view of the world. In listening to Emily you appreciate that teens don't necessarily consider things in the same way. It's a refreshing and honest look at studying and revising. And Emily does well to overcome the awkwardness of talking to her dad on the podcast! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

We've all done that thing of saying or doing something to our children we promised our younger selves we would never say or do. It's the gradual but undeniable transformation into our own parents. But is that such a bad thing? After all, doesn't it come from a place of good intention and concern and brought to life with the benefit of our own experiences? This week our special guest is TV's Sanjeev Bhaskar.  As well as being instantly recognisable for his many roles on TV (Unforgotten, Kumars), in film (Paddington 2, Yesterday), and stage (Spamalot), he is also a writer, presenter and the Chancellor at Sussex University. Critically, Sanjeev is also the dad to a GCSE facing teen boy. In this episode, Sanjeev shares his own teenage experiences, studying subjects he didn't enjoy, and how that shapes his outlook and approach with his own son. In a wide-ranging chat, Sanjeev talks about finding his own path and giving and seeking parental approval. We also talk about how life can get in the way of our calm responses as well as how, as parents, we look for ways to support. It's an open and strikingly honest look back at his younger days right through to his parenting role today. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

It's been quite a while since many of us have taken an exam, so it's understandable that we might have forgotten some of the best practices. To be honest I suspect a significant number of us may not have been especially au fait with those best practices at the time either! That can make it tricky when we're trying to nudge our own teens along. Especially if along the way we start to focus more on the results than the habits and behaviours they need along the way – and beyond! This week's guest is Kim Constable. Kim has been teaching for over 15 years in both the UK and Europe. She shares a phenomenal number of resources on her website around study skills, useful for parents and teachers alike – hecticteachersite.wordpress.com The episode looks at the difficult situation that exam-facing teens find themselves in. Kim explains that it isn't just knowledge and skills that will help students in the approach to GCSEs and A levels, but also their approach, attitude and behaviours. A really useful and upbeat episode full of great advice! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Parenting can be a thankless task at times. Sure there are great bits to it, and on balance we wouldn't be without them. Well, not all of us, and not all of the time. But there are aspects of the role that can be unwelcomed. The disciplinarian or enforcer role. The “have you done your homework” moments and the “put your phone away” times. So how would it feel to 'delegate' those aspects to someone else? This week's guest is Katie. She's mum to two teens who are at boarding school. Her daughter is taking her GCSEs in 2022. This is an especially thought-provoking episode - particularly for those parents who don't have a child in boarding school. Katie talks about how she never imagined she'd send her children off; but how her children benefit from the structure. While their school might not be the old fashioned stereotype of gowns and mortarboards, it is undoubtedly stricter and with less freedom than in your average home. But: is that a bad thing? In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions. Update Description

Our guest this week is Darren. He's dad to two teens - a girl who is in the first year of A Levels and a boy sitting GCSEs in 2022. Darren talks about his experiences of supporting teens when they live half the time with him, half the time with his ex-wife share. We cover the difficulties of ensuring the children are on track and of being conscious not to be the "naggy house". Darren talks about the additional pressure on the teens to take even more control of their studies. We also cover preparing for mocks - and mock-mocks! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions. Update Description

Jenny is mum to two teen girls. One is taking her GCSEs in 2022 and the other the following year. Both are incredibly sporty and keep Jenny and her husband busy with matches and practices in addition to the usual teen activities. We talk about how to manage hectic schedules and hope to keep on top of everything. We also learn that Jenny's girls are very different in their approach to study and revision. One is very organised and a perfectionist while the other is more chaotic and more self-confident. Jenny talks about learning to approach things differently. We also think about the importance of family support and also of self-sufficiency. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

This week listen to Head of Sixth Form, Gillian Walmsley talk about life beyond GCSEs. Gill reflects on her daughter's A Level decisions a couple of years ago as well as providing expert advice for parents and students. We talk about choosing an institution to go to, things to consider when selecting subjects and also the IB qualification. Gill is clearly passionate about her role and about making sure that young people make good choices at this stage in their educational careers. It's a really interesting episode and essential listening for all parents of GCSE aged teens! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions. 90siuPVO9ZIwyZYDS0Me

Meet Carol, mum to GCSE-taking teen Poppy. This is a truly honest take on the position our teens find themselves in. And also the toll that it takes on us, their parents. Carol has an elder daughter too and reflects on the very different experiences her girls have had in the run-up to the exams. We also think about half term and how best to use it. Should we be encouraging our teens to recharge their social batteries or is now the time to get their head down in preparation for mocks? In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. If you would like to take part in a future episode please drop us a line: hello@thestudybuddy.com The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

In this episode, you'll hear from Kate. Kate is in the unenviable position of having both her children sitting exams in 2022. Tabitha taking her A Levels and Jude his GCSEs. Tabitha, like all other A Level students, was the first year of cancelled GCSE exams. Kate tells about the impact that has in addition to the disrupted start to Tabitha's courses. Similarly, Kate shares how her son, who was diagnosed with ADHD a few years ago, is managing in the run-up to his first public exams. Kate is very open and lively in sharing her perspective - which is formed not just as a mum but also teacher, safeguarding lead and governor (amongst other hats). It's great to hear her thoughts on, as she puts it, a "conspiracy of Olympic-grade parenting". She also considers the importance of having a parent-peer you can relate to. Someone who'll act as a sounding board and perhaps a sanity checker! In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

In this episode, you'll hear from Barbara and her experiences with her teen daughter, Laura.  Barbara and her family moved to England from Portugal in 2013. While you might think that cultural and language issues feature among Barbara's concerns for her GCSE facing teen, you - and I - would be wrong! The issues that we talk about in this conversation are common themes - including focus and concentration, the impact of online learning and lost learning, and comparisons to an older sibling. Importantly we also talk about how, as parents, we can try to encourage and persuade when it comes to revision, without being overbearing. In this third season of the podcast, Nathan - founder of The Study Buddy - will be talking to parents, students and teachers. Sharing these real-life experiences will confirm we're not alone and should also provide plenty of advice and tips when it comes to supporting our own teens. The Study Buddy is an innovative method for managing revision in the run-up to GCSE and A-Level exams. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising study, time management and revision skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

This season of The Study Sessions will focus on the real experiences of parents, students and teachers. In this first episode, Nathan McGurl - founder of The Study Buddy - gets the ball rolling by talking about his daughter, Emily. Approaching her GCSEs in 2022, Emily has always been a conscientious student but lacks the drive to really push herself. Nathan shares some of the tactics and approaches to encourage his teen daughter to get into good habits while being careful not to create undue pressure. The Study Buddy helps GCSE and A Level students and parents to manage their time in the approach to exams. However, these episodes will cover a variety of topics and ideas based on the experience and the wisdom of our previous seasons' guests.

Well, that was quite a year! It might not have panned out as any of us expected. But, one thing is for sure, our young people have shown themselves to adapt well to the changing circumstances and, in the overwhelming majority of cases, resilient to the setbacks that 18 months of a pandemic have thrown them. In this episode, we're going to be looking at some of the big questions that come up time and again, with reference to the previous episodes in this season. This week is the Season 2 finale. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy looks back over the last 41 episodes to answer some typical questions that we've had from parents and students. Six listener's questions have been answered, covering topics including: * How grades are being assessed in 2021 * What is happening in 2022 with exams * Teenage study anxiety * Summer revision * Notes and study techniques * Mock exams If you have any questions that you would like to put to The Study Buddy on any aspect of supporting your teen pleased drop us a line hello@thestudybuddy.com We're taking a break now for the Summer but will be back with Season 3 in September. Don't forget to follow/subscribe so you don't miss out! For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

"Studying's boring. I've already done enough. The test's not for ages. The teacher told us it wasn't important. What's the point, I'm rubbish anyway?" I could go on with the list of typical student reactions to the prospect of revision. Not only have I heard them from my own children and other students, but I know for a fact I churned a few of these out to my parents all those years ago. But is this as easy to dismiss as a stereotypical teen response or is there something that we can do to help overcome this roadblock and help our children reach their goals? This week we're looking at what it takes to be motivated. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Mark Enser. Mark is head of geography and research lead at Heathfield Community College in East Sussex. He is a frequent columnist with the Times Educational Supplement, an author and, as well as regularly blogging along with his wife Zoe Enser (who you may remember from our previous episode on generative learning) – he is an avid twitterer. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There's something comforting about seeing a teen's notepad with actual notes inside it! Of course, the occasional diagram has its place too. The written word reassures us that they are working. Simply the more notes, the harder they're working. After all, that's how they did it in my day. However there are a number of ways of presenting information:  from companies trying to persuade us their products are more effective than another to Professor Chris Whitty and the Covid-updates. So is the long form writing-out of notes the most effective way of learning and revising?  This week we're looking at organising ideas and information. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Oliver Caviglioli. Oliver is a former headteacher of a special school and currently the go-to educational book designer and illustrator – certainly according to the office book collection. He has authored, co-authored and contributed to several books on teaching and learning strategies including the forthcoming “Organising Ideas: Thinking by hand, Extending the mind” alongside David Goodwin. He also maintains his website olicav.com which is packed with resources and ideas for teachers - and parents and students too. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Teaching and learning are something that has been happening since the dawn of time – or thereabouts. And we do it all the time in non-school contexts, as do our children. But that doesn't mean, necessarily that the things we need to learn stick, especially when there is an entire world of excitement and interest out there competing for our attention. So, just how can we focus our efforts and be more deliberate about our learning? This week we're looking at what was called a whole-brain learning approach and how it can help students. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Nimish Lad. A Physics teacher by training, Nimish is an experienced and passionate senior leader with a particular interest in curriculum design, research and leadership. In addition to maintaining a blog – researcher teacher – Nimish is about to release his first book – Shimamira's MARGE: Model for Learning in Action. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

In normal times, exams can be a cause of stress and anxiety for students. Even those students who have studied and you'd think are well prepared are subjected to the mounting pressure. In fact, these abnormal times are no different. Exams have been replaced with Teacher Assessment and a process that for some feels uncertain and perhaps even out of their control. However, a significant number of schools have finished gathering evidence and many students have been released. But, given the interruption to education over the last 12 months and more, do we have the balance right between downtime and catching up? This week we're looking at the 2021 exam series and anxiety in the face of assessments. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Jill Duffy. Jill is the Chief Exec of OCR. OCR is a leading UK exam awarding body, providing GCSEs and A Levels in over 40 subjects and offer over 450 vocational qualifications. Jill joined OCR as CEO in November 2018 and has over 25 years of experience in education in various roles across teaching and education publishing.  For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

The end of the academic year is upon us. For GCSE and A Level students, the worst is now over. Many have finished their courses and looking forward to a couple of extra weeks of the British summer. However, for other year groups throughout secondary school, just over the horizon looms the prospect of end-of-year exams. Typically, schools use these as an introduction to the high-stakes terminal exams they'll face later. They can also serve as a fantastic proving ground for how our young people will get on with revision – or not. So, maybe this is an opportunity for us to find out how we can best support them too?  This week we're looking at project management and how it can apply to supporting your teen. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Catherine Walker. As well as being one of the most fabulous people you could have the pleasure of working with, Catherine is a formidable and highly sought after Project Manager. With qualifications and a wealth of experience in both traditional Prince and more contemporary Agile projects, Catherine has consulted on and managed multi-million-pound projects for numerous multinational and blue-chip companies.  In this episode we explore some of the key traits to successful project managers and how you can apply that to supporting your teen. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

The pandemic has resulted in canceled exams for hundreds of thousands of pupils across the UK. In their place,  we have Teacher Assessed Grades; where teachers are using their professional and holistic judgment to determine the level that a student is performing at. On the face of it at all sounds relatively straightforward. However, as we get closer to the deadlines, and as teachers, students and parents grapple with the realities of not having terminal exams, a myriad of complexities and questions seem to be appearing. The most pressing one seems to be, how can we make sure that this process is fair, and the grading is consistent. This week, we're looking at the challenges facing teachers and indeed Exam boards in ensuring consistency across centers and students results. Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Ian Morgan. Ian is the Chief Executive of WJEC, having joined the organization in 2002. WJEC is an exam board based in Wales, providing bilingual qualifications. And it's also responsible for the Eduqas brand, which runs qualifications across schools and colleges in England. He is also a board member of the Joint Council for Qualifications. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

In any normal year, the GCSE and A Level exam period would be starting about now. But, there's scarcely any need to point out that this isn't a normal year! You might be forgiven for thinking that in the absence of exams there would be less pressure and a distinct lack of need to revise. However, across the country – but to varying degrees – schools are rolling out assessments in a bid to secure much-needed evidence for grades. So just was is it about the cancelled exams that is giving rise to the need to test?   This week we're looking at the grade awarding process for 2021, with the head of the organisation that helped to shape the process. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Dr Philip Wright. Philip is the Director-General of the Joint Council for Qualifications. JCQ is a membership organisation comprising the eight largest UK qualification providers. Philip has over 20 years of experience working in public and regulatory affairs largely in the life sciences sectors, including leading educational outreach and activities in a number of different organisations. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Between finding things that explode or pop or fizzle and trying to not set notes alight with Bunsen burners many of us will have fond memories of Chemistry lessons. But it's not all parlour tricks and safety goggles, there's a considerable amount of content to be learnt. Between the scientific terms and symbols, it can feel like an alien language for students and parents alike. So, just what are the best study methods to yield good results? This week's podcast episode is looking at Chemistry, why an understanding is important beyond school and how to prepare for the exams. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Dr David Paterson. David is Chemistry Teacher and researcher. Previously David has been a subject advisor with a UK exam board. As well as being an author and blogger, David is active in working on teacher training and support with the Royal Society for Chemistry, amongst others. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

As we're now well into the swing of the Summer term, the end is firmly – and finally – in sight for our GCSE and A Level students. Unfortunately for many, that goal post can still seem a little blurry. We know that, like last year, disrupted and unequal access to schooling has resulted in the cancellation of exams. We also know that teachers will be making the assessment of grades. But just what are the implications for our young people? This week we're looking at the alternative arrangements for grading, and what it means for students.  Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Colin Hughes – the Chief Exec of AQA. AQA is England's largest provider of academic qualifications – setting the exams for around half of all GCSEs and A Levels. Before joining AQA in June 2020, Colin was the Managing Director of publisher Collins Learning and has also chaired the Education Publishers' Council. This episode touches on questions of consistency and quality assurance in the 2021 exam series. A frank and open conversation with the head of one of the UK's largest exam boards.  For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Legend tells of students who will settle down to studying – of their own volition! They want to do well - and are prepared to work for it - without it becoming all-consuming. However, up and down the country exam year households tend to be filled with the same sorts of questions: “have you got much homework?” and “don't you think you should be doing a bit of revision?”. Of course, at the other end of the spectrum, students can put themselves under too much pressure, struggling to find a balance. So, just how can we help our young people to find this route to efficient self-managed study and is it even really necessary? This episode looks at what it takes to be a self-regulated and independent learner Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Louise Lewis. Louise is a biology teacher at a secondary school in East Yorkshire. Alongside the day job, she is a research lead, a governor and a columnist for the Times Education Supplement. She also writes a blog under the genius title of Miss Understanding Education which looks at, amongst other things, evidence-informed teaching practice.  For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

The pandemic, and resulting interruption to education, has led increasing numbers of parents and young people to think about whether being at school is the best place for them. While, for many of us, this period of remote learning reinforced the need for our children to be in class, others saw it as an opportunity to address the individual educational needs of their children. But does taking them out of the mainstream make it more difficult for the young people later in life with qualifications and the like, or is the benefit of tailored and focused learning too great to miss out on? In this week's podcast episode we're looking at home education. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Hannah Titley. Hannah is the Founder of The Home Schooling Association. The HAS was created so that parents can make informed decisions and get the most out of home schooling. Hannah is also a qualified teacher and director of The Golden Circle, the UK's first professional home-schooling group. In a wide ranging conversation we explore why more and more parents are turning to alternatives to going to school, the impact of this year's exam cancellation and calls for a register of home-school children. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

In previous years a student's idea of success – and many parents – is the grade they get. Essentially boiling down to how they do in their exams. And there is absolutely no denying that getting good grades is, for many, the key that unlocks the next door. But if this global pandemic has taught us one thing, it is that life can take unexpected twists. This has presented a lot of us, young people included, with a rare opportunity to question what's important. So, is it time for us to re-evaluate the notion of success to be more about fulfilment than about attainment? Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Fabienne Vailes. Fabienne has over 20 years' experience in teaching across all age groups (from nursery right through to Higher Education) and is currently the French Language Director at the University of Bristol. Fabienne is the author of “The Flourishing Student” and co-author of “How to Grow A Grownup”. Through her work and research, Fabienne is on a mission to change the face of education – by embedding well-being into the curriculum. For our students – as with most every student in the country – their results don't just validate their achievements, they seem to view them as the sum total of what they've achieved. The results define them. Fabienne explores whether we're placing too much emphasis on these numbers and letters to the detriment of our young people. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

When we look back at the last year of various lockdowns, it's easy to see why the usual amount of course content hasn't been taught. And, with the best will in the world - and heroic teacher efforts across the board - there's no way that remote learning could be a substitute for being in a classroom. Of course, it follows then that some learning hasn't been as effective amongst students as you'd normally expect. While it's clear there's no fault here, the impact is being acutely felt by our young people. They are expected to not only pick up where they left off but “catch-up” to where they should be. In the immortalised words of teens everywhere: isn't that “so unfair”? This week we're looking at how best to deal with the issue of post-Covid catch-up. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Alex Fairlamb. Alex is an Assistant Headteacher and Teacher of History for a Secondary school in the North East of England. Alex regularly writes for a variety of publications and has designed learning resources for national distribution. Alex's teaching interests and research are focused upon creative Teaching and Learning strategies and resources; including recently how best to motivate and manage student's learning post-lockdown. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Time flies when you're having fun. But apparently, it also goes fairly quickly when gripped in a global pandemic, enduring various tiered lockdowns, and a feeling that we're not so much working from home as living at work. And let's no get started on remote learning…. It's hard to believe that it's been a whole year since we started this humble podcast. Back then the world was a different place. Students were studying to greater or lesser extents and parents often struggled to know how best to support them. Well, it's good to know that Covid hasn't altered everything, I guess. This week, in a special year-in-review episode, Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy, is taking a look back at some of the themes and topics that we've explored over the past 12 months and 44 episodes. Each expertly produced by the fantastic team at Pineapple Audio Productions. For the second only time in our history, Nathan is podcasting solo! Although, it'll feel like we're amongst friends as we remember some of the over 50 expert guests who've featured on the show. So, cue the wavey lines while I slip into a Noel Coward style jacket and stoke the fire, for this “Study Sessions” retrospective. From our very first episode with Dr Dominique Thompson looking at perfectionism and the fear of failure amongst our teens to the interview with Ofqual's Chief Regular, Simon Lebus, looking at the alternative arrangements for this year's students; Nathan explores the themes and topics we've covered and some of the invaluable lessons we've learnt. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

In many subjects, it all hinges on the final exam. It's seen by many as the culmination of 2 or 3 years worth of study. It's a source of great anxiety in the run-up and often huge relief when they're finished. However, just like last year, the class of 2021 will not be sitting these terminal exams. Which leaves a rather significant question: just how will these students get a grade to move on to their next step? This week we're looking at exactly how students will be awarded their grades in GCSE, AS and A Level courses, following the decision to cancel exams.  Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Simon Lebus. Simon became the interim Chief Regulator – and Chief Exec -  of Ofqual on 1 January 2021. He has a wealth of experience in education technology and curriculum delivery, most notably as a former Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment – who deliver, amongst other things, GCSEs, AS and A levels and iGCSE qualifications around the world. In January, Gavin Williamson – the Education Secretary – announced that exams wouldn't take place for GCSE and A Level students in England this year. Shortly after, Ofqual launched a consultation paper, jointly with the Department for Education, inviting opinions as to what the alternative arrangements might be. This is quite a divisive topic and so we can only imagine the variety that might have come from the more than 100,000 responses. However, at the end of February, the arrangements for this year's exam cohorts were confirmed. In this episode we take a look at the alternative arrangements that have been put in place to award students their grades. Simon explains the reasoning behind the decision and exactly why Teachers are best placed to make the assessment. We also touch on the appeals process and how it might apply. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to organising revision, time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There's a universal truth that teens lock themselves away in their darkened bedrooms, headphones on, and within an arm's distance of a screen – whether that's a phone, laptop or a video game. This isn't a new phenomenon. But even with a pre-disposition to languish in their caves, lockdown has curbed what little outside interactions our young people may have had. But should we be concerned about our children being cooped up, or should we lay off encouraging them to “get more fresh air”? This week we're looking at light and the role that it plays in our teens' wellbeing.  Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Dr Shelley James. Shelley is an experienced Arts professional with an international career that combines consultancy and teaching with scientific and creative research. Shelley is leading the charge on highlighting the importance of “light” amongst teens with a number of freely available online workshops and a number of hugely popular Tik Tok videos. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

Growing up in the 80s, there was a real drive to teach children foreign languages at school – something you can still see today with introductory lessons often taking place in primary schools. And although there are fewer students taking GCSEs in modern foreign languages than a decade ago, French, Spanish or German are still popular options for students to take. But if you've ever tried to learn a language independently, you'll know it can be really tough. So has lockdown impacted student's ability to continue their language studies, perhaps more than other subjects? This week we're looking at the benefits of learning a language at GCSE, and ideas to effectively prepare for assessments. Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Rebecca Nobes. Rebecca is the Head of Spanish in a large secondary school in Essex. She is a Council member of the Chartered College of Teaching. And if that weren't enough, Rebecca is an active podcaster and blogger at learninglinguist.co.uk For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

There is an insta-perfect perception of remote schooling and revision. It's the one where parents are casually teaching their children quadratic equations; while perfecting cold fusion as a side hustle. In this world parent and child move in some magical symbiotic harmony. And the kids probably even volunteer to put the bins out. Yeah right! The very real reality is that parenting and schooling in lockdown is tricky. It can feel like there's little to no respite. But although friction is to be expected, is there something in how we deal with it that will unlock a more positive outcome? This week we're looking at how parenting might be getting in the way of getting the most out of our children. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, is joined by Ayesha Murray. Ayesha is a professional coach who has built her career working with parents to find balance. She is also the host of the popular “parent equation” podcast. In this episode, we look at some simple coaching techniques that will help you to connect with your teen at a time when they are likely to be feeling unsettled and demotivated. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

The idea that we have a 'best way' to learn - whether it's visually, verbally, via touch or one of another 67 ways is not new. At the same time, neither is the research that debunks this theory. Odd then that not only do we as individuals and parents still hold on to this idea but that the overwhelming majority of teachers do too. Just what is it, that makes Learning Styles so hard to reject? This week we're looking at “Learning Styles” why it is considered to be a neuromyth and whether it matters.  Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Professor Phil Newton. Phil is the Director of Learning and Teaching for the Swansea University Medical School. Phil teaches Neuroscience across a variety of programmes in the School. He also teaches evidence-based education as part of the School's online programme and has written numerous papers including recently “How Common Is Belief in the Learning Styles Neuromyth, and Does It Matter?” In this episode, we look at the Learning Style concept and touch on the dangers of trying to determine a preferred style in students. We also examine why it can be so hard to dissuade people of its effectiveness as a cognitive theory and why it is more important to focus our attention on the science of learning instead. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.

“Could try harder.” “See me after class.” These kinds of phrases epitomised school for a great number of us. And that's not to say that it was all red pen and crosses because, at the other end of the spectrum, there was always “well done”. It could just be me, but I don't remember there being an awful lot of degrees in between these two options. Now, teachers seem to operate within a more nuanced world. Filled with “What Went Well”s, and “Even Better If”s. So given there's a new approach to providing feedback in the classroom, relatively speaking, are we parents missing a trick in how we encourage and support our teens at home? This week's episode looks at feedback, what it's for and, importantly how to provide it well.  Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy is joined by Michael Chiles.  Michael is currently Head of Department for a secondary school in the North West, having started his career as a Geography. He has also spent time developing and delivering teacher training, both nationally and internationally. Michael is also the author of the best selling “The CRAFT of Assessment” and the recently published “The Feedback Pendulum”.  We explore what makes good feedback, the importance of relationship in providing feedback and also the critical element of timing. For more information about The Study Buddy's approach to time management and study skills visit thestudybuddy.com  Produced by Pineapple Audio Productions.