# The Study Buddy

> Planning For Success


## Posts

- [Is Your Teen Overwhelmed? The Science of Cognitive Load Theory and Revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/is-your-teen-overwhelmed-the-science-of-cognitive-load-theory-and-revision/): Discover how Cognitive Load Theory affects your teen's ability to study. Learn why a "full brain" leads to procrastination and how The Study Buddy helps offload mental clutter for better GCSE and A-Level results.
- [Shifting Gears - Setting The Right Mindset For The New Term](https://thestudybuddy.com/shifting-gears-setting-the-right-mindset-for-the-new-term/): Driving their studies or just along for the ride? As the new term kicks off, many students find themselves idling in neutral or coasting as a passenger. It’s time to shift gears. From beating procrastination to turning academic anxiety into a focused 'can-do' plan, we explore how to take the wheel and start the year with a high-performance mindset.
- [Let's Get It Done](https://thestudybuddy.com/lets-get-it-done/): For parents of teens, "Get it done!" often feels like the daily battle cry, but in the context of The Study Buddy, we can pivot that from a demand into a supportive, structured mindset.
- [A New Year's Resolution For Results](https://thestudybuddy.com/a-new-years-resolution-for-results/): Sowing the Seeds for a Productive 2026 For many teenagers, the Christmas break is not just a chance to relax—it’s a vital, uninterrupted window of time before significant exams begin in the spring and summer. If your child is heading into a crucial exam season in 2026, this article is for you. We are moving past light maintenance (for that, see our Christmas Revision Bingo guide!) and focusing on building a strong, sustainable foundation. This requires structure, commitment, and a winning joint approach between parent and teen. Step 1: The Essential Inventory and Audit Before a single page is opened, […]
- [WRAP Up Christmas: Sleigh Your Studies This Season!](https://thestudybuddy.com/wrap-up-christmas-sleigh-your-studies-this-season/): The power of looking back to look forward. The festive season is upon us, bringing with it twinkly lights, warm drinks, and… the inevitable stress of looming exams and academic deadlines. But what if we told you there was a way to navigate this busy period with confidence, clarity, and even a little cheer? Enter our “WRAP” session – your secret weapon for turning potential holiday study chaos into a well-organised, highly effective learning sprint! And this Christmas, we’re giving it a seasonal twist: WRAP Up Christmas. WRAP stands for Weekly Review And Plan, and it’s a critical part of […]
- [Balancing Books and Baubles: Christmas Revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/balancing-books-and-baubles-christmas-revision/): It's important to unwind and spend time with family over Christmas. But equally there are significant benefits to keeping going with study. We look at ways to do that with a revision resistant teen, that might just work!
- [The Reasons Why Your Teen's Study Plan Isn't Working (And What You Can Do About It)](https://thestudybuddy.com/why-your-teens-study-plan-isnt-working/): “Let’s make a revision timetable!” It’s the perfect solution for improving grades and reducing stress. Yet, for many teens, the plan quickly falls apart, leading to frustration for both students and parents. If your child’s study schedule isn’t sticking, it’s not necessarily a sign of laziness or a lack of caring. Often, the plan itself is the problem. Here are the most common reasons why study plans fail and practical steps you can take to help your teen get back on track. 1. The Plan Isn’t Specific (The “Study Plan” Trap) The Problem: The most common mistake is creating vague […]
- [Navigating Revision Resistance: How to Support Your Teen Without the Nagging](https://thestudybuddy.com/navigating-revision-resistance-how-to-support-your-teen-without-the-nagging/): Exam season. The phrase alone can send shivers down a parent’s spine, especially when met with a teenager whose revision efforts are, at best, less than enthusiastic. It’s a common struggle: you want to help, you know they need to revise, but every mention of textbooks or flashcards is met with eye-rolls, grunts, or a disappearing act. You’re not alone. And the good news; there are ways to approach this that are genuinely helpful, non-patronizing, and far more effective than nagging. Here’s how to go from conflict to collaboration when it comes to revision. Understanding the “Why” Behind the Resistance […]
- [Parent Power: Unlocking Learner Success ​](https://thestudybuddy.com/parent-power-unlocking-learner-success/): When it comes to a child’s success in life, parents are the unsung heroes. ​ While schools and peer groups play obviously significant roles, the home environment has a lasting impact on a child’s character, mindset, and academic achievement. ​ Research shows that parent engagement in their child’s education is the single most influential factor in improving attainment. ​ In research by John Hattie, it was shown that parental engagement was the equivalent of adding two to three years of extra schooling. But what does parent engagement really mean, and how can parents and schools work together to foster it? […]
- [Surviving Exam Season: Your Self-Care Survival Guide](https://thestudybuddy.com/surviving-exam-season-your-self-care-survival-guide/): You’re up to your eyes in revision schedules and practice papers. So it’s little wonder we often forget a crucial element that underpins success in exams: nutrition and self-care. Nutrition and self-care are the fuel that powers your brain and overall well-being during this demanding time. Ignoring it is like trying to run a car on empty – it simply won’t perform at its best. Nourishing your teen with the right foods and encouraging small moments of self-care can make a significant difference in their ability to focus, retain information, and manage stress. Let’s explore some practical and manageable ways […]
- [Your Pre-flight Exam Checklist.](https://thestudybuddy.com/its-crunch-time-those-final-weeks-before-exams-are-a-delicate-balance-of-intense-preparation-and-crucial-self-care/): It’s crunch time! Those final weeks before exams are a delicate balance of intense preparation and crucial self-care. Here’s a breakdown of key things students should focus on as we hurtle towards the exams: For Effective preparation Prioritize your revision workload Active recall and retrieval practice Optimise your study environment To look after yourself By focusing on both effective preparation strategies and prioritising your well-being, you’ll be in the best possible position to perform well in your exams and navigate this stressful period successfully.
- [Revision is a piece of cake.](https://thestudybuddy.com/revision-is-a-piece-of-cake/): Revision might not be your idea of a sweet treat but, with the right ingredients, it is the recipe for success.
- [Practice makes progress](https://thestudybuddy.com/practice-makes-progress/): I baked this! And, as well as having a delicious crust and satisfying aerated texture, it provided the perfect analogy – what’s not to love?! I’ve always enjoyed cooking but my early attempts at making bread were wholly embarrassing. Little rocks that even the seagulls struggled with. It was so easy just to ditch it as a bad idea. After all, you can get bread without all that performance. And that’s what I did. Focus on what I can do and save myself the heartache. But during lockdown, I came back to the idea – as half the population did. […]
- [Just a routine operation](https://thestudybuddy.com/just-a-routine-operation/): The Importance of a Routine for School Children Routines are essential for everyone, but they are especially important for school children and teens. A straightforward, consistent routine can help them feel more organised, prepared, and in control of their lives. It helph them to sleep better, eat healthier, and manage their stress levels. Not to mention a positive impact on our stress levels! The benefit of sticking to a routine Implementing a routine If you want to help your child establish a routine, here are a few tips: Establishing a routine can be a challenge, but it’s worth it for […]
- [Picnics and post-its: should teenagers study over the summer holidays?](https://thestudybuddy.com/picnics-and-post-its-should-teenagers-study-over-the-summer-holidays/): The summer holidays are a time for relaxation and fun, but they’re also a long time to go without reviewing schoolwork, especially if they have exams at the end of next year. So, is summer study a necessity or a human rights infringement? As parents, we tend to look back on our own summer holidays with dewy-eyed fondness as being the stuff of legend. And it is right that our children have the chance for those memories too. But while I’m a huge fan of the summer break for students, it is worth remembering that there are pros and cons […]
- [How to schedule time for your revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/how-to-schedule-time-for-your-revision/): We take time – and filling it – for granted. But using it well isn’t something that happens by accident and it isn’t always something that comes naturally. Follow our three simple steps to planning time effectively
- [Managing stress levels when it comes to GCSE revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/managing-stress-levels-when-it-comes-to-gcse-revision/): Exams are a well known source of of stress. But it’s not just the immediate run up to them that causes anxiety. Revision can be a daunting prospects for our teens too. It is not a surprise that GCSEs, A Level and degree final exams can cause a considerable amount of pressure. Afterll, they’re important. It’s that feeling of significance – the impact of the results will have –  that means students are bound to worry about how they will perform. However, for many the feeling of pressure can strike much earlier. In the run up to exams, revision can […]
- [I'm starting to panic about Year 11 and GCSEs](https://thestudybuddy.com/im-starting-to-panic-about-year-11-and-gcses/): It’s not uncommon for some students to feel anxious about the start of their final GCSE year. In fact, most will start to feel the pressure of the exams in one form or another. Here’s what we advise. First things first, you’ve got this. And there’s no end of people who are more than willing to lend a hand and support you (whether that’s teachers, family, or us here at The Study Buddy!). Keep a regular self-check-in. If things start to feel like they’re getting out of control, talk to someone about it. That’s really important. In practical terms; don’t […]
- [What if your child didn't get the 2022 GCSE grades they wanted?](https://thestudybuddy.com/what-if-your-child-didnt-get-the-2022-gcse-grades-they-wanted/): Today (25/08/2022) is GCSE results’ day in England and Wales. Hundreds of thousands of students have been anxiously waiting to find out what they got. Many will be over the moon and their grades exceeded their expectations. I don’t just mean all 9s. These things are relative. For some, a 6 in English Language might be the best news ever. Many will be satisfied. Similarly many will be upset with disappointing grades. Everyone will be somewhere on that continuum! Grade boundaries The last two Covid years have seen students assessed by their teachers, rather than sitting exams. And, of course, […]
- [Preparing for the GCSE Journey](https://thestudybuddy.com/preparing-for-the-gcse-journey/): You can almost hear the collective sigh of relief from those of us who’ve now come to 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 […]
- [On what happens after the GCSE exams](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-what-happens-after-the-gcse-exams/): 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, Nathan is joined by Andy Scott-Evans. Andy is the Head Teacher of Becket Keys Church of England School in Essex where he has been head for […]
- [On apprenticeships as an alternative to university- "Get The Jump"](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-apprenticeships-as-an-alternative-to-university-get-the-jump/): 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 […]
- [On answering common questions in the run up to GCSE exams](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-answering-common-questions-in-the-run-up-to-gcse-exams/): 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. Listen […]
- [On revision techniques that work with Kate Jones](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-revision-techniques-that-work-with-kate-jones/): “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 […]
- [On finding a sense of normality – when things are anything but](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-finding-a-sense-of-normality-when-things-are-anything-but/): 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 […]
- [On supporting anxious and overworking teens with Dr Dominique Thompson](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-supporting-anxious-and-overworking-teens-with-dr-dominique-thompson/): 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 […]
- [On creating a revision revolution at home with Helen Howell](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-creating-a-revision-revolution-at-home-with-helen-howell/): 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 […]
- [It's Time to Spring into Revision Action for GCSEs](https://thestudybuddy.com/its-time-to-spring-into-revision-action-for-gcses/): Sow the seeds of success by revising now so that they can be in full bloom by the time exam season begins. <could help the puntastic opening!!> As we mark the first day of spring (Sun 20th March 2022), there are just under two months to the start of GCSE and A Level exams. To do themselves justice, students should be getting their revision underway, right away. Across the country, a significant number of teens haven’t started to prepare for the exams yet, and that delay might have an impact on how well they will perform. It’s not unusual for […]
- [On getting started with a GCSE or A Level revision plan](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-getting-started-with-a-gcse-or-a-level-revision-plan/): 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 […]
- [On how teens view time and preparation](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-how-teens-view-time-and-preparation/): “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? 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! Listen Now This week our parent-guest is dad to […]
- [On encouraging self-sufficiency in our teens](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-encouraging-self-sufficiency-in-our-teens/): 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 […]
- [On Advance Information and the impact on GCSE and A Level revision with Dawn Cox](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-advance-information-and-the-impact-on-gcse-and-a-level-revision-with-dawn-cox/): 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! There have been two years of interrupted learning, for those sitting exams this year – being year 11 and year 13 students. As a result, 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 […]
- [On Advance Information and the impact on GCSE and A Level revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-advance-information-and-the-impact-on-gcse-and-a-level-revision/): 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! There has been two years of interupted learning, for those sitting exams this year – being year 11 and year 13 students. As a result, 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 […]
- [On nutrition and the impact on revision and exam performance with Louise Mercieca](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-nutrition-and-the-impact-on-revision-and-exam-performance-with-louise-mercieca/): 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. Louise is an author and also hosts […]
- [GCSE revision Advance Information  for the summer 2022 exams](https://thestudybuddy.com/gcse-revision-advance-information-for-the-summer-2022-exams/): All the UK exams boards have today (7th Feb 2022) released information on which major topics will appear in the summer 2022 exams. The move is one of a number of steps taken to recognise the disruption that students have suffered in their GCSE years. This particular initiative to release advance notice helps students prepare for their summer exams by reducing the focus of their attention. The Joint Council for Qualifications explains: “Advance information is intended to communicate, ahead of the examinations, the focus of the content of the examinations (or part of the examinations) that will be assessed in […]
- [On making changes that stick with Shahroo Izadi](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-making-changes-that-stick-with-shahroo-izadi/): 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 […]
- [On creating a productive parent-child relationship](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-creating-a-productive-parent-child-relationship/): 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 […]
- [On trying not to be that overbearing parent](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-trying-not-to-be-that-overbearing-parent/): There’s not a parent amongst us who doesn’t want their child to do well. After all, 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. […]
- [On being more effective in supporting a studying teen with Lee Elliot Major](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-being-more-effective-in-supporting-a-studying-teen-with-lee-elliot-major/): 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“. Listen now Lee discusses the […]
- [On target grades and school reports with David Didau](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-target-grades-and-school-reports-with-david-didau/): 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. In the episode, David Didau 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 […]
- [On wanting to do well but struggling with motivation](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-wanting-to-do-well-but-struggling-with-motivation/): 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 […]
- [On approval, self-worth and learning from our experiences with Sanjeev Bhaskar](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-approval-self-worth-and-learning-from-our-experiences-with-sanjeev-bhaskar/): 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); Sanjeev is also a […]
- [On successful habits and study skills](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-successful-habits-and-study-skills/): 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 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 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 […]
- [On boarding school](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-boarding-school/): 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 […]
- [On co-parenting and blended families](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-co-parenting-and-blended-families/): 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. 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! Listen Now! […]
- [GCSE 2022 - plans and contingency plans announced](https://thestudybuddy.com/gcse-2022-plans-and-contingency-plans-announced/): For the latest on Advanced Information for GCSE, A Level and other qualifications see our post. Ofqual has announced the arrangements for the summer 2022 exams. And also the plans that it is putting in place in case GCSE and A Level exams are cancelled. Exams will be taking place next year. It’s something that government is keen to point out whenever the subject of 2022 exams comes up. However, accepting that you can’t control everything, they have today (11/11/2021) outlined the steps that they would take in the unlikely event that exams don’t take place. In short, Teacher Assessed […]
- [On busy home lives, structure and handling teens with very different approaches to studying for GCSEs](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-busy-home-lives-structure-and-handling-teens-with-very-different-approaches-to-studying-for-gcses/): 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 […]
- [On Sixth Form college and further education choices - with Gill Walmsley](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-sixth-form-college-and-further-education-choices-with-gill-walmsley/): 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. Listen Now 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 […]
- [On procrastination, half term and the  impact of Covid](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-procrastination-half-term-and-the-impact-of-covid/): 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? Listen Now In this third season of the […]
- [On A Levels in 2022, supporting a child with ADHD and the importance of other parents to talk with](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-a-levels-in-2022-supporting-a-child-with-adhd-and-the-importance-of-other-parents-to-talk-with/): 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. Listen Now Kate is very open and lively in sharing her perspective – […]
- [On focus, the gap to GCSEs and helping without interferring](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-focus-the-gap-to-gcses-and-helping-without-interferring/): 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. You might think that cultural and language issues feature among Barbara’s concerns for her GCSE facing teen. Well you – and I – would be wrong! The issues that we talk about in this conversation are common themes. They include 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 […]
- [When's the best time to start revising for GCSE exams?](https://thestudybuddy.com/whens-the-best-time-to-start-revising-for-gcse-exams/): Erm, are you busy right now? The idea someone could be starting their revision “early” for their GCSE or A-Level exams is a nonsense. The only time you can’t revise is before you’ve learnt something! After that, it’s all fair game. And the sooner you start, the easier it will be to call on all the knowledge you need to do your best. Getting your head down and recapping what’s been taught at school is not the preserve of swots, it is a great habit to get into that will save time and pressure further down the line. The prevailing […]
- [The Study Session Podcast Returns with Season 3 - Good habits for GCSEs](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-study-session-podcast-returns-with-season-3-good-habits-for-gcses/): The Study Sessions is back on the air for a third season. Join us as we explore ways of helping parents to support their teenage exam-facing teens. Not just surviving the exam period, but thriving in preparation! At least, that’s the dream! Throughout season 3 we will focus on the real experiences of parents, students and teachers. Teasing out issues and exploring possible solutions. In this first episode, Nathan McGurl – founder of The Study Buddy – gets the ball rolling by talking about his daughter. Approaching her GCSEs in 2022, Emily has always been a conscientious student but lacks […]
- [What's happening to GCSE and A-level exams in 2022?](https://thestudybuddy.com/whats-happening-to-gcse-and-a-level-exams-in-2022/): Today (30th September 2021) has been a big day for exam announcements in England . Ofqual has made three significant calls that affect students sitting their GCSE, A-Level and vocational exams in 2022. For many months students and their parents – and indeed teachers – have been wondering what changes might be made to courses and grading in 2022. Specifically because: Students had a disrupted start to GCSE in year 10, with significant disparity in course coverage from school to school Across the board the level of grades awarded has been higher than before the pandemic. This is due to […]
- [GCSE and A-Level Exams in 2022](https://thestudybuddy.com/gcse-and-a-level-exams-in-2022/): Given the disruptive last couple of years, there’s still a number of questions about what will happen this year for GCSEs and A-Level exams. Will there be exams or teacher assessed grades in 2022? Everyone – government, Ofqual and the exam boards – is very clear that there is every intention that GCSE, A-Level and BTEC exams will take place in summer 2022. BUT that’s also what they said last year and, of course, the 21 exams were cancelled in favour of Teacher Assessed Grades (TAG). The context for last year was the amount of school closure and remote lessons […]
- [Ready for school](https://thestudybuddy.com/ready-for-school/): For many students, being asked if they had school work to do over the summer is close to a mortal wounding. But it makes sense to think about it now. Most of us are desperately clinging to the last moments of summer. Even if the sun isn’t shining. For our teens that can mean the important business of doing nothing for as long as possible. Mostly with the protest “don’t ruin my holidays by making me think about school”. However, pretending that the start of school isn’t around the corner won’t help them in the end. Especially if they are […]
- [Talking to your child about their GCSE results.](https://thestudybuddy.com/talking-to-your-child-about-their-gcse-results/)
- [Pens Down: Answering questions on exams, revision, and wellbeing in teens](https://thestudybuddy.com/pens-down-answering-questions-on-exams-revision-and-wellbeing-in-teens/): 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 […]
- [Growing Motivated: How we can develop and encourage motivation in our teens with Mark Enser](https://thestudybuddy.com/growing-motivated-how-we-can-develop-and-encourage-motivation-in-our-teens-with-mark-enser/): “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 […]
- [Note Bene: Distilling and organising notes and ideas for effective studying with Oliver Caviglioli](https://thestudybuddy.com/note-bene-distilling-and-organising-notes-and-ideas-for-effective-studying-with-oliver-caviglioli/): 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 […]
- [At Home With MARGE: Exploring Shimamura's approach to learning with Nimish Lad](https://thestudybuddy.com/at-home-with-marge-exploring-shimamuras-approach-to-learning-with-nimish-lad-2/): 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. Listen Now Nathan McGurl, Founder of The […]
- [At Home With MARGE: Exploring Shimamura's approach to learning with Nimish Lad](https://thestudybuddy.com/at-home-with-marge-exploring-shimamuras-approach-to-learning-with-nimish-lad/): 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. Listen Now Nathan McGurl, Founder of The […]
- [The Balancing Act: Student stress and future progression in the 2021 exam series with Jill Duffy](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-balancing-act-student-stress-and-future-progression-in-the-2021-exam-series-with-jill-duffy/): 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; 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; have we got the balance right between downtime and catching […]
- [Project Revision: Project Management skills to help you help your teen with Catherine Walker](https://thestudybuddy.com/project-revision-project-management-skills-to-help-you-help-your-teen/): 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 […]
- [Free Study Summary Template](https://thestudybuddy.com/free-study-summary-template/): Free downloadable A4 template can be used in all year groups and any subject to monitor your progress.
- [Constant Challenge: Striving for consistency in Teacher Assessed Grades for GCSE and A Levels with WJEC's Ian Morgan](https://thestudybuddy.com/constant-challenge-striving-for-consistency-in-teacher-assessed-grades-for-gcse-and-a-levels-with-wjecs-ian-morgan/): The pandemic has resulted in cancelled 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 […]
- [Burden Of Proof: Evidence in teacher assessed grades](https://thestudybuddy.com/burden-of-proof-evidence-in-teacher-assessed-grades/): 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 […]
- [Your GCSE 2021 Questions Answered](https://thestudybuddy.com/your-gcse-2021-questions-answered/): [section label=”About: Intro” padding=”0px”] [row padding=”60px 60px 40px 60px”] [col span=”8″ span__sm=”12″ span__md=”8″ margin=”-100px 0px 0px 0px” bg_color=”#273647″ color=”light”] What’s on your mind about GCSEs in 2021? It’s been a bit of an unsettling time. And it’s little wonder that many parents (and students) are unsure what’s happening. So, we thought we’d answer the 5 most commonly asked questions about GCSE and A Levels in 2021. [gap height=”10px”] [/col] [/row] [/section] [row v_align=”middle” padding=”60px 0px 60px 0px” padding__sm=”0px 0px 0px 0px”] [col span=”6″ span__sm=”12″] [section label=”Edit Border Color” padding=”54px” border=”0px 0px 0px 40px” border_color=”rgb(212, 111, 111)” border_hover=”bounce”] [row_inner style=”collapse”] [col_inner […]
- [We've Got Chemistry: GCSE study tips and advice from Dr David Paterson](https://thestudybuddy.com/weve-got-chemistry-gcse-study-tips-and-advice-from-dr-david-paterson/): 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. Listen […]
- [Exam Conditions: Consistency and quality assurance in 2021 exams, with AQA CEO Colin Hughes](https://thestudybuddy.com/exam-conditions-consistency-and-quality-assurance-in-2021-exams-with-aqa-ceo-colin-hughes/): 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.  Listen now https://audioboom.com/posts/7855430 […]
- [Self-Directed Destination: The importance of self-regulating and independent learners with Louise Lewis](https://thestudybuddy.com/self-directed-destination-the-importance-of-self-regulating-and-independent-learners-with-louise-lewis/): 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 […]
- [At Home With Learning: A look at alternative education provision with Hannah Titley](https://thestudybuddy.com/at-home-with-learning-a-look-at-alternative-education-provision-with-hannah-titley/): 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. For many of us, this period of remote learning reinforced the need for our children to be in class. While others saw it as an opportunity to address the individual educational needs of their children. However, does taking them out of the mainstream make it more difficult for young people later in life with qualifications? Or is the benefit of tailored and focused learning too great to miss out on? This […]
- [2021 grades for GCSE & A Level Home-Schooled and Private Candidates](https://thestudybuddy.com/2021-grades-for-gcse-a-level-home-schooled-and-private-candidates/): Students who haven’t studied with an exam centre can now find somewhere to assess their work and award them a grade. Following the decision to cancel the summer 2021 exams, Ofqual announced that in place of the terminal exam they would rely wholly on teacher judgement. This presents an obvious issue for teens (and adults) who are not in school or college. Ofqual were clear in their decision that private candidates would be able to get a grade (unlike 2020) but it was not clear how. The Joint Council of Qualifications (JCQ) has published a list of centres that will […]
- [GCSE & A Level 2021 Grading Guidance Issued](https://thestudybuddy.com/gcse-a-level-2021-grading-guidance-issued/): Help and guidance on grading pupils who should have been sitting their GCSE or A Levels exams in the summer 2021 sitting has been published by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). Following the announcement by the Government that exams wouldn’t take place, Ofqual determined that teachers would assess the grades. This JCQ guidance is an attempt to ensure consistency. The Joint Council for Qualifications represents the eight exam boards operating across the UK. JCQ created the guidance with the Department for Education and Ofqual. In creating the documents, JCQ said they were looking at three things: helping teachers, complying […]
- [With A Flourish: Looking at success beyond grades with Fabienne Vailes](https://thestudybuddy.com/with-a-flourish-looking-at-success-beyond-grades-with-fabienne-vailes/): 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 […]
- [Mind The Gap: The problems inherent in 'catching-up' With Alex Fairlamb](https://thestudybuddy.com/mind-the-gap-the-problems-inherent-in-catching-up-with-alex-fairlamb/): 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 […]
- [End Of Year Report: A reflection on 12 months of the podcast with Nathan McGurl](https://thestudybuddy.com/end-of-year-report-a-reflection-on-12-months-of-the-podcast-with-nathan-mcgurl/): 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 […]
- [Making The Grade: Determining GCSE and A Level results in 2021 with Simon Lebus](https://thestudybuddy.com/making-the-grade-determining-gcse-and-a-level-results-in-2021-with-simon-lebus/): In many subjects, it all hinges on the final exam. Many see them as the culmination of 2 or 3 years worth of study. And, of course, they are often source of great anxiety and often huge relief when they’re finished. However, just like last year, the class of 2021 will not be sitting these terminal exams. This 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 how students will be awarded their grades in GCSE, AS and A Level courses; following the decision to cancel […]
- [Light Touch: The importance of light on development and wellbeing in teens with Dr Shelley James](https://thestudybuddy.com/light-touch-the-importance-of-light-on-development-and-wellbeing-in-teens-with-dr-shelley-james/): 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. 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.  Listen […]
- [Ofqual confirms the changes to GCSE, AS and A Level grading in 2021](https://thestudybuddy.com/ofqual-confirms-the-changes-to-gcse-as-and-a-level-grading-in-2021/): After months of speculation and consultation, details have been announced for how grades will be awarded in 2021. The Government announced in January that there would be no exams in England for GCSEs, Vocational Qualifications (eg BTEC), AS or A Levels in 2021. Since then Ofqual has conducted a consultation with teachers, professionals, parents and students as to what should happen in their place. The central question being: how can students receive grades for courses without a terminal exam and accepting that there are huge levels of disparity between schools as to how much of the curriculum has been taught. […]
- [No Hablo Teen: Tips and ideas for learning a language at GCSE with Rebecca Nobes](https://thestudybuddy.com/no-hablo-teen-tips-and-ideas-for-learning-a-language-at-gcse-with-rebecca-nobes/): Growing up in the 80s, there was a real drive to teach children foreign languages at school. It’s something you can still see today with introductory lessons often taking place in primary schools. 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 […]
- [It's Behind You: The importance of reflection and communication with Ayesha Murray](https://thestudybuddy.com/its-behind-you-the-importance-of-reflection-and-communication-with-ayesha-murray/): 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. Friction is to be expected. But is there something in how we deal with it that will unlock a more positive outcome? This week’s podcast […]
- [Out Of Style: Exploring the 'Learning Style' neuromyth and when to bust it with Professor Phil Newton](https://thestudybuddy.com/out-of-style-exploring-the-learning-style-neuromyth-and-when-to-bust-it-with-professor-phil-newton/): 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.  Listen Now https://audioboom.com/posts/7791795 Nathan McGurl, Founder […]
- [Correcting feedback: How parents can provide supportive direction to teens with Michael Chiles.](https://thestudybuddy.com/correcting-feedback-providing-supportive-direction-to-teens-with-michael-chiles/): “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 […]
- [On top of your GCSE studies? Check ✔](https://thestudybuddy.com/on-top-of-your-gcse-studies-check-%e2%9c%94/): The combination of remote learning and many months of disruption means that many GCSE year students aren’t sure where they are with their studies. To help students – and parents – keep an eye on how they are doing, we are introducing personalised Study Summaries. These electronic documents are a single source of all of the topics that are in a student’s GCSE courses. They breakdown the courses into units, just like our original revision sets. This is a great way to make sure that there are no gaps in knowledge. The checklist format also contains suggested milestones that students […]
- [Going the distance: Making the most of remote learning with Tom Rose](https://thestudybuddy.com/going-the-distance-making-the-most-of-remote-learning-with-tom-rose/): It’s quite incredible how quickly our teens adapt to their environment. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly they can cotton on to a great excuse: “Sorry, my laptop is glitching”. I’m not sure that’s much of a technical term! But it seems to cover all manner of ills to justify not putting the camera or mic on. But beneath the cunning is there a more serious issue? Is it a symptom of the fact that our children are disengaging from learning? And will this perhaps more passive role harm their prospects in the future? This week’s podcast episode […]
- [How you'll get a grade for GCSE and A Levels in 2021](https://thestudybuddy.com/how-youll-get-a-grade-for-gcse-and-a-levels-in-2021/): Ofqual has announced its proposals for how students will receive their grades in their GCSE, AS and A Levels, after exams were cancelled. The consultation document sets out what Ofqual considers to be the fairest way to award grades to students so that they “have an equal opportunity to progress. Ofqual is also keen that exam-year students are taught for as long as possible into the academic year. You can expect the full decision during week commencing 22nd Feb 2-21. Summary of the proposals Students carry on with education with assessments in May/June Teachers will assess students grades Human-based quality […]
- [The Exam Question: The impact of cancelled exams and learning with Zoe Enser](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-exam-question-the-impact-of-cancelled-exams-and-learning-with-zoe-enser/): Who knew unprecedented times could still give you a sense of deja vu? The cancellation of GCSE and A Level exams in the summer 2021 sitting has divided people: those who think the exams should have gone ahead as the fairest way to grade students; and those who have long held that exams should have been cancelled due to the significant disruption students have faced and for many the startling disparity in access to education and schooling. Whichever side you come down a fairly crucial question remains: what does this mean for student’s courses and their final grades? This podcast […]
- [Remote chance: Digital learning and learning digital with our teens with Jane Basnet](https://thestudybuddy.com/remote-chance-digital-learning-and-learning-digital-with-our-teens-with-jane-basnet/): Remote learning isn’t a phrase we used very much before 2020. It was either classwork or it was homework. Of course, Covid-19 and lockdown brought with it the need to adapt. Fortunately, we have the technology nowadays to deliver classroom content to pupils in their homes. But it can all be a bit bewildering, can’t it? I remember it used to be, when we were children, that we were the masters of technology. How to work the video player or set the clock on the microwave. Now many of us can feel left behind with this “new way”. Just how […]
- [GCSE and A Level exams Cancelled in 2021](https://thestudybuddy.com/gcse-and-a-level-exams-cancelled-in-2021/): Students in England will no longer sit formal exams in GCSEs, A Levels or AS Levels in the Summer 2021 sitting, following the announcement from Government. Instead of these summer exams, teacher judgement will be used to grade students, in a similar way to 2020’s grades. However the detail of what will be involved in making these centre assessed grades (CAGs) hasn’t been agreed. The move has been made because of the continuing disruption to schooling and education. It follows the implementation of the third national lockdown across UK. It ends weeks of speculation about what will happen to English […]
- [Taught parenting: The role parents can and do play in teaching teens, with Sam Twiselton](https://thestudybuddy.com/taught-parenting-the-role-parents-can-and-do-play-in-teaching-teens-with-sam-twiselton/): All too often when faced with a studying teen we’re reminded just how long ago our own school days were! Not only can the content be hazy at best, but the texts, technology and even approaches have changed. How many parents looked perplexed when they were told there was a new way of doing taking away? Do we need to take some sort of crash course in teacher basics to help our children get the most out of themselves? This week’s podcast we are looking at the teachers and whether there’s something in it that we parents can learn. Listen […]
- [The Learning Parent: Applying principles of retrieval practice at home, with Patrice Bain](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-learning-parent-applying-principles-of-retrieval-practice-at-home-with-patrice-bain/): We want our children to do well. Naturally. We parents have been through school, done homework and revised for exams.  Even if that can feel like a dim and distant lifetime ago. AS a result, you’d think we’d be amply qualified to do our bit and help our children through this stage. Afterall the human brain and learning haven’t changed in the last couple of decades.   In this week’s podcast we looking at the science of learning and what we parents can do to help our teens be better at it. Nathan McGurl, Founder of The Study Buddy, talks to Patrice […]
- [Reaching your STEPS: Coaching, motivation and goal setting with Prof Damian Hughes](https://thestudybuddy.com/reaching-your-steps-coaching-motivation-and-goal-setting-with-prof-damian-hughes/): Hardly a fortnight goes by without some stone being thrown into the 2020 pond to causes ripples. And few have felt it more than those students taking their exams in 2021. As well as fairly significant disruption to schooling and probable isolation and remote learning, there have been regular questions over whether exams will take place. While the Government is determined that exams will take places, we have seen their cancellation in Scotland and Wales. Add to this the moving goalposts of exam content and you can only imagine that and already tricky time for our teens might feel like […]
- [Prestige Awards Recognise The Study Buddy as Education Specialist of the Year](https://thestudybuddy.com/prestige-awards-recognise-the-study-buddy-as-education-specialist-of-the-year/): Study and time management start-up, The Study Buddy, has been announced as the winner of the Education Specialist category in this year’s Prestige Awards. The Study Buddy, based in Somerset, was created in 2018 to help students and their parents to structure and plan revision in the run-up to GCSEs. The Corporate Livewire Prestige Awards recognise small and medium-sized businesses that have proven to be the best in their market over the past 12 months. The judging panel base their decisions on areas such as service, quality of the product and innovative practices. In awarding The Study Buddy as ‘best […]
- [Revising GCSE revision: Reframing the idea of exam preparation from short fix to long term, with Dawn Cox](https://thestudybuddy.com/revising-gcse-revision-reframing-the-idea-of-exam-preparation-from-short-fix-to-long-term-with-dawn-cox/): It’s not unusual for students to wait until exams are almost upon them before revising. “Don’t stress, there’s loads of time” is certainly something parents hear a lot. Probably something they said fair amount too! For generations, teens have seen revision as that thing you do in the run-up to a test. It seems somehow baked into the word; revising isn’t just the act of studying what you’ve learnt, but some ill-defined period of time.  But is this the best approach for teens? Does it give them the best chance of showing off what they’re capable of?   This podcast episode […]
- [Government announces headline changes for 2021 GCSE and A-Level exams.](https://thestudybuddy.com/government-announces-headline-changes-for-2021-gcse-and-a-level-exams/): The Governement has announced steps to improve fairness for next year’s exam students, with detail to follow. Today (3 December 2020) the Department for Education has announced a number of measures that it sees as addressing the issues of fairness and disruption for England’s students taking GCSEs and A-Level exams. It comes after months of uncertainty and moves by Scotland and Wales and Scotland to cancel some or all exams. What will be different? Those measures include: more generous grading than usual. This is planned to be in line with national outcomes from 2020 so students this year are not […]
- [Making Maths Count: Overcoming barriers to master Maths GCSE with Dani Quinn](https://thestudybuddy.com/making-maths-count-overcoming-barriers-to-master-maths-gcse-with-dani-quinn/): Could Maths be the Marmite of the Education world? Students seem to either love it or loathe it. They get it or they struggle. So, often you’ll hear students who don’t enjoy it say: “I don’t know why I’m bothering”. Or “I’m never going to need to know the quadratic formula after GCSEs”.  Many parents will sympathise! There comes a point where a lot of us reach the limits of being able to help out with homework. After all, the vast majority of us won’t have tackled things like simultaneous equations since our own school days. However, Maths is a […]
- [Taking Stock of the Mock: What dry run exams are - and are not - good for with Adam Boxer](https://thestudybuddy.com/taking-stock-of-the-mock-what-dry-run-exams-are-and-are-not-good-for-with-adam-boxer/): There’s something poetically ironic about calling these dry run exams “mocks”.  For many parents, this is the time when our children make a mockery of revising. Or perhaps it’s more like they’re mocking us for our frequent, if not futile, attempts to get them to study. Ironic naming aside, these dress rehearsals can take up a lot of energy. They can also and be a source of anxiety for students and parents alike. Are they simply there to help acclimatise students to working in exam conditions? In this podcast episode, we look at the point of these mock exams. We […]
- [Revising Boys: A look at why it is [typically] difficult to get boys to study with Mark Roberts](https://thestudybuddy.com/revising-boys-a-look-at-why-it-is-typically-difficult-to-get-boys-to-study-with-mark-roberts/): Boys? Well, they’re just lazier than girls / don’t try as hard / procrastinate more / need to run around and let off steam. These are some very obvious stereotypes about teen boys that we could call on. Most of us would recognise at least one or two traits in sons – and perhaps other males in your life. After all, they’re stereotypes for a reason. They come up time after time. But there has to be more to it than dismissing an inability to knuckle down to revise with the age-old “boys will be boys” retort. Especially if we […]
- [Welsh Government cancels GCSE, AS and A Level exams for Summer 2021](https://thestudybuddy.com/welsh-government-cancels-gcse-as-and-a-level-exams-for-summer-2021/): Education Minister Kirsty Williams has today (Tuesday 10 November ) confirmed Wales’ approach for qualifications in 2021. Her decision that there will be no end of year exams for learners taking GCSEs, AS levels or A levels. Instead The Welsh Government will work with Headteachers and others to determine a nationally consistent approach to teacher based assessments. This is likely to involved externally set and marked assessments. Like exams, but taken in a school setting. Kirsty Williams cites “fairness” as a primary driver for the decision. We remain optimistic that the public heath situation will improve, but the primary reason […]

## Pages

- [Elementor #995987](https://thestudybuddy.com/elementor-995987/): Testing out dynamic content I’m worrier content I’m coasting content
- [Festive Revision Fun - FREE BINGO SHEET DOWNLOAD](https://thestudybuddy.com/festive-revision-fun-free-bingo-sheet-download/): Encourage A Little Revision Fun! Our FREE TO SHARE printable Christmas Revision Bingo Card encourages some seasonal studying! Download Now What’s Santa’s favourite revision game? Bingo-Ho-Ho To help students maintain momentum without burnout, we created a fun, gamified checklist: Christmas Revision Bingo. Feel free to share! We’d love to know if you’re using (but you don’t have to tell us!). We also have some printed cards. Let us know if you’d like them.
- [Make A GCSE Revision Timetable - FOR FREE](https://thestudybuddy.com/m/): STEP BY STEP INSTRUCTIONS Create Your Own GCSE Revision Timetable. This guide is designed to help you build an effective, stress-free revision plan without spending anything (unless you want to make it really easy!). Or We Can Do It For You! The Practical 4-Step Guide to Creating Your GCSE Revision Timetable Creating a revision timetable doesn’t need expensive software. All you need is to know what you’ve got to do and a system for planning. Oh, and a clear head. What Do You Have To Revise? Build a complete list of everything that needs to be studied. Teachers often provide […]
- [Santa's Favorite Game? Bingo-ho-ho!](https://thestudybuddy.com/santas-favorite-game-bingo-ho-ho/): Encourage A Little Revision Fun! Our FREE TO SHARE printable Christmas Revision Bingo Card encourages some seasonal studying! Download Now What’s Santa’s favourite revision game? Bingo-Ho-Ho To help students maintain momentum without burnout, we created a fun, gamified checklist: Christmas Revision Bingo. Feel free to share! We’d love to know if you’re using (but you don’t have to tell us!). We also have some printed cards. Let us know if you’d like them.
- [Links](https://thestudybuddy.com/links/): Planning For Success The Study Buddy Homepage Our Popular GCSE Revision Bundle 🎁 SPECIAL OFFER: £5 Custom Courses Checklist 🎁 How To Build A Revision Habit About us We’re all about helping students make the most of their time, especially in the run up to exams. Award winning provider of tailored revision resources.
- [Your Complete Course Checklist Special Offer](https://thestudybuddy.com/your-complete-course-checklist-special-offer/): End the Revision Chaos Get Your Complete Course Checklists for just £5 Buy now Your Complete Course Checklists A custom-made collection of checklists covering the subjects being studied for GCSE exams. Only £5 (RRP £9.99) Buy now The code YCCC50 is automatically applied. Stop organising revision — start doing it. You want your child to feel confident and in control, not overwhelmed by the mountain of revision. We get it. That’s why Your Complete Course Checklists are the perfect, low-cost solution to kickstart their study plans, instantly. These aren’t generic guides; they are custom-made for your teen’s specific subjects and exam board specifications. Each checklist […]
- [The Digital Tracker](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-digital-tracker/): The Digital Tracker Monitor progress and set your priorities Login Looking to buy? Visit the shop! GCSE Ready Our full breakdown of GCSE and iGCSE courses, all available online. Set your confidence level and determine what to focus on next. Easy Access Access your tracker from your phone, PC or tablet Already registered? If you’re registered, head to our dedicated Tracker site: https://tracker.thestudybuddy.com https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NwFqAq7m8sA Plan. Prioritise. Progress. The Study Buddy’s Digital Tracker makes it easy for you to monitor the progress of your GCSE revision. All the courses are broken down into units of work so you can keep on […]
- [Returns Policy](https://thestudybuddy.com/returns-policy/): Cancelling Your Order If you’ve just bought and, for some reason, changed your mind; we will issue a full refund. Although we think you should trust your sound instincts, we won’t quibble! Return Policy We hope that you’ll agree; this system of planning and scheduling revision is straightforward and intuitive. If you are not satisfied then we would encourage you to get in touch with us. We will see if we can help you make the most of the system in the first instance. But if it’s still not right then we will arrange a refund on your bundle. Which […]
- [Revision Tips For Teens](https://thestudybuddy.com/revision-tips-for-teens/): Revision, but without the hassle. Are you struggling to get going with your GCSE revision, but know deep down that you probably should make a start? Let Nathan – The Study Buddy – talk you through some of the basics of learning and how to get organised. You’ll be geared up to prepare for your exams, without it taking over your life https://youtu.be/B94mncuPkqM With our tools, you’ll be ready to go, right out of the box. We give you the answers to “what” and the approach to tackle “when”. Overcome Procrastination Courses are broken down into specific bite-sized units. This […]
- [Track your order](https://thestudybuddy.com/track-your-order/): Enter order ID and the billing last name and email as in the order billing address.
- [Your Bundle Options](https://thestudybuddy.com/your-bundle-options/): Your Bundle Options So that we can produce your bespoke revision sets, we need a little more information from you. The first step is to let us know which subjects and exam boards you need. This is important and subject content can vary.  If you have any problem getting this info, or would like to talk to us, then simply drop us an email: support@thestudybuddy.com
- [The GCSE Revision Bundle](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-gcse-revision-bundle/): Get Your Teen’s GCSE Revision Under Control Today You can’t revise for them, but you can give them a system that makes it feel less like a chore. Finally, a way to help without the hassle. Trade nagging for a clear, visible plan. It’s more than just a revision plan; it’s a way to build independence and confidence that will last long after the exams are over. GET REVISION UNDER CONTROL TODAY Buy Now! Award Winning 11,000+ Students supported 5 Star Reviews Complete All courses covered Key Features Customised setscreated for yourcourses. Visibly track progress and success Reduces study stress […]
- [The Study Sessions Podcast](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-study-sessions-podcast/): The Study Sessions Podcast A collection of amazing guests will help you tackle some of the issues you’ve been grappling with when it comes to teens and revision. Search Search
- [Supporting your teen with their revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/supporting-your-teen-with-their-revision/): Supporting your exam-facing teen. Are you worried about your teen’s revision efforts? With The Study Buddy, you can help them to be at their best in the exams, without them feeling like it’s taking over their life – and without you nagging them! Our innovative revision planning approach has everything you need to support your teen’s organisation while giving them control and responsibility. https://youtu.be/k8Nw7xG2DSM With our tools, you’ll be ready to go, right out of the box. We give you the answers to “what” and the approach to tackle “when”. Overcome Procrastination Courses are broken down into specific bite-sized units. […]
- [Shipping](https://thestudybuddy.com/shipping/): Standard Delivery Pending order payment and verification of submitted options, please allow approximately 5 – 7 business days for shipping delivery time, excluding holidays. Personalised or custom orders require additional time. Once your order has been processed, you will receive your shipping tracking reference. We use Parcelforce for purchases that include the whiteboard, and Royal Mail for everything else. Please remember that once your bundle of revision joy has left us, we have no control. On the rare occasion that something does go wrong, your first resort should be to check the delivery information. But please do let us know […]
- [Purchase Summary](https://thestudybuddy.com/purchase-summary/): Cart Checkout Order complete Thank you for your order. When you’re ready, please let us know about the courses you need in your bundle. Your email receipt has the link to the form, if you need to come back to it. But, if know what you need, you can tell us right now!  Bundle Options
- [Terms of Use](https://thestudybuddy.com/terms-of-use/): By clicking “sign in,” “create account,” or “complete purchase” and entering or otherwise using our website or mobile application (the “Site”), you agree to and accept these terms and conditions. Certain products and services on our Site may have additional terms that apply (for example, if you enroll in our Digital Tracker or you purchase tickets for an event or course. If these Terms of Use are inconsistent with terms applicable to a certain product or service, those other terms will control. THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS, AS WELL AS ANY OTHER PRODUCT AND SERVICE SPECIFIC TERMS ON OUR SITE, CONSTITUTE […]
- [Privacy policy](https://thestudybuddy.com/privacy-policy/): Who we are The website is owned and operated by The Study Buddy Studios Limited. Registered in England & Wales (Registration Number 11465032). Our Registered Office is: Goodwood House, Blackbrook Park Avenue, Taunton, Somerset, UK, TA1 2PX Our website address is: https://thestudybuddy.com Comments When visitors leave comments on the site we collect the data shown in the comments form, and also the visitor’s IP address and browser user agent string to help spam detection. An anonymized string created from your email address (also called a hash) may be provided to the Gravatar service to see if you are using it. […]
- [Thank you for your bundle options](https://thestudybuddy.com/thank-you-for-your-bundle-options/): Thank you for your bundle options. Your subject choices are currently flying through the ether to the team. You’ll be up and running in no time! What happens now? We tend to have a little check through your exam boards and subject options. If you’ve told us the school we’ll have a look at their website, look at previous orders, that kind of thing. If we have any queries, we’ll come back to you as soon as they arise. Then we’ll create your bespoke bundle.  You may well receive one or two emails along the way. Finally, you will receive […]
- [Get Ready for GCSE and A Level Exams](https://thestudybuddy.com/be-exam-ready-for-gcses-and-a-levels/): AWARD WINNING PLANNING TOOLS FOR GCSE AND A LEVEL From Revision Chaos to Exam Ready Break the GCSE overwhelm with a physical, visual revision plan. Our hands-on kits help your teen organise every subject, build a winning routine, and replace exam-season chaos with readiness and confidence. Shop The GCSE Bundle Now What’s standing between your teen and exam success? The Revision Avalanche Huge specs, conflicting advice, and no clear starting point lead to total paralysis. Your teen needs a map, not just a textbook. Spinning Wheels Procrastination isn’t laziness—it’s confusion. Vague plans mean hours spent staring at walls, not revising […]
- [Help & Guidance](https://thestudybuddy.com/help-guidance/): Revision Without Revolt The struggle is real, the sighs are loud, and the eye-rolls are legendary. If you’ve ever wished for a fairy godmother when it comes to revision time, we’re here to wave the wand. We’ve packed this page with all the smart, simple, and seriously effective ways to get your teen from “I can’t do this” to “I’ve got this.” No more nagging, no more tears, just real-world help that actually works. We also have some recorded presentations from our founder, Nathan, covering the full gamut of revision and time management. Parents Supporting your teen Watch here Teens […]
- [Getting revision planning started with The Study Buddy](https://thestudybuddy.com/getting-revision-planning-started-with-the-study-buddy/): Get Revising How to set up your Study Buddyin 5 easy steps Teachers agree; our easy-to-follow framework is one of the key reasons why The Study Buddy is such a successful approach to revising for exams. Start here Each week, follow the same steps. The structure is your friend. And the flexibility means it will endure. There is no ‘one way’ of using your Study Buddy board, but this is how we recommend starting. Be Ready Make sure that those things that can be a barrier are done. So, collect up stationery, make sure you have the right passwords or […]
- [FAQ](https://thestudybuddy.com/faq/): Products and orders Is this an app? Our system is based around real world, physical tools and products. In a world gone virtual, this is still the most effective method of planning – especially in a group and family context.  That said, we do have companion resources – The Digital Tracker, and The Study Summaries – which are great as standalone tools for monitoring progress Do you have a store? Unfortunately not. But if you have questions that weren’t answered on the site, then please get in touch. Of course, if you happen to be in Burnham on Sea and […]
- [About us](https://thestudybuddy.com/about-us/): Who We Are The Study Buddy was the brainchild of Nathan McGurl. He came up with the idea while trying to help his own child revise for his GCSEs. As exams got closer, it was clear that Jake wasn’t motivated to study. That might have been over-confidence in his ability, perhaps a bravado that if he ‘didn’t try he wouldn’t really fail’ or maybe that he would eventually do something. The issue was that as the deadline loomed, Jake was becoming more and more entrenched in doing nothing and it was creating a tense atmosphere. Because while he wasn’t prepared […]
- [The 8 Steps to more effective revision](https://thestudybuddy.com/the-8-steps-to-more-effective-revision/): The Eight Steps to Effective Revision Our personalised GCSE Revision Bundles have everything you need to get on track. Start today!
- [Blog](https://thestudybuddy.com/blog/)
- [Contact](https://thestudybuddy.com/contact/): We’d love to hear from you – please use the form to send us your message, questions or ideas. We aim to respond within a day. But please bear with us if it takes a little longer. The Study Buddy Studios, Manor House, Burnham on Sea, TA8 2HA  WhatsApp: 07747 467976 Email: hello@thestudybuddy.com Have a question or comment? Use the form below to send us a message.
- [Plan for success in your GCSEs and A Levels with The Study Buddy](https://thestudybuddy.com/): Get better exam results without revision battles The Study Buddy offers simple, smart tools for parents to organise, motivate, and promote effective learning for all major exams. Get GCSE Ready Visit the shop All Subjects All Exam Boards All Levels GCSE, iGCSE, NAT5 and BTEC Stop the revision meltdown You juggle school, work, and household chaos—then add revision to the mix. Put an end to the nightly battles, the forgotten deadlines, and the last-minute cramming that stresses everyone out. More peace. Better Pace. Imagine a house where studying is calm, children are organised, and revision simply happens. Less nagging for […]
- [My account](https://thestudybuddy.com/my-account/)
- [Checkout](https://thestudybuddy.com/checkout/)
- [Cart](https://thestudybuddy.com/cart/)
- [Shop](https://thestudybuddy.com/shop/)

## Products

- [Scottish Highers](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/scottish-highers/): The Study Buddy's Scottish Highers revision sets are pre-printed, magnetic cards with every topic and module from their specific subjects and exam boards. No more time wasted trying to figure out what to revise—we've done the heavy lifting for you.    These sets of 'bite-sized' magnetic cards, turn a daunting syllabus into a visual 'to-do' list. They help your teen build confidence and stay on track, whether they're an anxious over-worker or a last-minute crammer, these sets are all about planning to make the most of time. Simply pull the cards for a week's study plan and watch them power through their revision.    Please note these are not Flash Cards, we're all about planning. They are the perfect complement to the lessons taught in school and by tutors.  All SQA subjects are covered.
- [20 Blank Magnetic Cards](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/20-blank-magnetic-cards/)
- [National 5 Revision Sets](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/nat5-revision-sets/): The Study Buddy's GCSE revision sets are pre-printed, magnetic cards with every topic and module from their specific subjects and exam boards. No more time wasted trying to figure out what to revise—we've done the heavy lifting for you.  These sets of 'bite-sized' magnetic cards turn a daunting syllabus into a visual 'to-do' list. They help your teen build confidence and stay on track, whether they're an anxious planner or a last-minute crammer. Simply pull the cards for a week's study plan and watch them power through their revision. Please note these are not Flash Cards, we're all about planning. They are the perfect complement to the lessons taught in school and by tutors. All subjects are covered
- [Homework set](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/homework-set/): A perfect companion to your GCSE, NAT5 or A Level revision sets. Factor in the ongoing homework for your subjects alongside specific topics you'll be revising. This set will keep everything looking beautiful, with a further 40 blanks to help you personalise your planning.
- [Special GCSE Desk Jotter Bundle](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/special-gcse-desk-jotter-bundle/): Our new Study Buddy GCSE Desk Jotter is portable, lightweight and ideal for Year 11 GCSE-facing teens.    Everything you need to make the most of the time left to exams:     	The 25-page A3 Desk Jotter   	2 sets of stickers for up to 10 GCSE courses   	Access to the Digital Tracker   	Your Complete Course Checklists    Ordering couldn't be simpler - just let us know the courses you need once you've placed your order. You don't need to have everything right now, we'll send you a link in the confirmation email too. And, if you're not sure, we will happily see if we can find out for you.  Supporting you starts right now.
- [Primary Home School Planner with Full Buddy Board](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/primary-home-school-planner-with-full-buddy-board/): The Primary planner covers the core subjects of Maths, English and Science and also Reading, Spellings, PE, Creative and Project activities. It's everything you need to keep your young learners on track - and out of your hair!    Kids absolutely love to get involved in planning like this. With 50 blank magnetic cards in this bundle, you can also create repeatable tasks to suit their favoured activities - iPads, Lego, Netflix. This helps keep them motivated and engaged. There's no limit to what you can organise, create a bank of meals for dinners, and household chores for them to get involved in.    This kit contains:     	The full-sized Buddy Board - 90cm x 60 cm, magnetic and dry-wipe   	5 of each - Maths, English, Science, Reading, Spellings, PE   	3 of each - Creative, Project   	40 blank magnets   	Wipeable pens and eraser set  
- [Legacy product](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/legacy-product/)
- [Desk Jotter & A Level Revision Planning Stickers](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/desk-jotter-a-level-revision-planning-label/): The Study Buddy Desk Jotter is portable, lightweight. It's a fantastic resource for exam-facing teens. Available in 25 or 50-pages, these A3 pads are perfect for students looking to kick-start their revision planning. The sticker sheets are tailored to your teen's courses so they don't need to spend days figuring out what they need to study. Ordering couldn’t be simpler  Once you've ordered you simply need to let us know the courses you need. You don’t need to have everything right now; we’ll send you a link in the confirmation email too. And, if you’re not sure, we will happily see if we can find out for you. Supporting you starts right now.
- [Home Starter with Buddy Board](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/home-starter-with-buddy-board/): This fantastic value set has everything you need to organise and structure time with your children effectively.   Kids absolutely love to get involved. Create repeatable tasks with the blank magnets to suit their favoured activities - iPads, Lego, Netflix - alongside the ones that they need to be doing - reading, creative projects, maths, spellings and so on. There's no limit to what you can organise, create a bank of meals for dinners, and household chores for them to get involved in.  This also works for older children, structuring homework, preparing for end-of-year tests, and so on.  This kit contains:   	The Buddy Board - our original magnetic weekly planner (90cm x 60m)  	40 blank magnets  	Wipeable pens and eraser set 
- [SQA National 5 Revision Bundle Special](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/scottish-sqa-national5-revision-bundle/): Give your teen a proven, nag-free way to master their exams and banish exam stress for good. The Study Buddy's personalised revision bundle breaks down every subject and exam board into manageable, 'bite-sized' units on magnetic cards. It's a visual 'to-do' list that shows exactly what needs doing, and gives teens a clear, step-by-step path to follow. You get peace of mind, they get the confidence and control to succeed.  This bundle has everything in our armoury to support you and your teen     	The Buddy Board   	Up to 10 Nat5 course sets (we cover all subjects)   	Dry-wipe pen and eraser set   	Access to The Digital Tracker   	Your Complete Course Checklists (PDF for you to keep and print).         The bundle is great value - more than 20% lower than buying everything separately.
- [The Home School Planning GCSE Bundle Special](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/home-school-gcse-planner/): Everything you need to get going quickly with your GCSE study planning for home-educated students in particular. We've reduced the number of GCSE courses in the pack so that you're not paying for sets you don't need. If your teen is taking more than 5 GCSE subjects, the full GCSE Bundle might be more cost-effective.    Give your teen a proven, nag-free way to master their [up to 5] GCSEs and banish exam stress for good. The Study Buddy’s personalised revision bundle breaks down every subject and exam board into manageable, ‘bite-sized’ units on magnetic cards. It’s a visual ‘to-do’ list that shows exactly what needs doing, and gives teens a clear, step-by-step path to follow. You get peace of mind, they get the confidence and control to succeed.  Your bespoke GCSE revision bundle contains:     	The Buddy Board - The full 90 x 60 cm dry wipe white board   	Up to 5 GCSE course sets - tailored to your subjects and exam boards   	40 blank cards for you to personalise your planning   	Dry-wipe pens   	The Digital Tracker   	Your Complete Course Checklists  
- [13+ CE and CASE bundle](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/13-ce-and-case-bundle/): This set helps prepare Year 8 students for their 13+ Common Academic Scholarship and Common Entrance tests.    The magnetic planning units will cover:     	Maths   	English   	Biology   	Chemistry   	Physics   	Classics   	Modern Foreign Language   	Geography   	History   	Theology, Philosophy and Religion    The bundle consists of the full 90cm x 60cm magnetic whiteboard, study planning units, whiteboard pens and eraser set and a printable summary of the full syllabus in checklist form.
- [Desk Jotter & GCSE Revision Planning Labels](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/desk-jotter-gcse-revision-planning-labels/): Our new Study Buddy Desk Jotter is portable, lightweight and ideal for Year 11 GCSE-facing teens. Available in 25 or 50-pages, these A3 pads are perfect for students looking to kick-start their revision planning. The sticker sheets are tailored to your teen's courses so they don't need to spend days figuring out what they need to study.  Ordering couldn’t be simpler   Once you've ordered you simply need to let us know the courses you need. You don’t need to have everything right now; we’ll send you a link in the confirmation email too. And, if you’re not sure, we will happily see if we can find out for you.  Supporting you starts right now.
- [GCSE Revision & exams - what parent's need to know.](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/gcse-revision-exams-what-parents-need-to-know/): You want to help them to do their best. But they're not exactly receptive to your selfless offers of help...  How can you support your child to prepare for their exams?  There are inherent problems in parenting a teenager in the run-up to exams.     	Their brains are wired to take risks   	The future seems too far away   	They mis-read signals ( like how they mistake our concern for aggression)   	It's not like when we were at school   	No one tells us how to genuinely help... until now!    In this webinar, we'll cover some of the common issues teens (and their parents) face when it comes to exams.  Nathan McGurl, founder of The Study Buddy, will explain:     	How we learn (an overview!)   	What to do in the absence of motivation   	Creating foolproof schedules   	Coaching techniques every parent should know   	Top revision techniques and how to practically use them    When is this invaluable webinar taking place?  Please email for dates.  The live session will last for approximately one hour with time for questions. Be warned; there may be a test at the end :)
- [FREE - Maths and English Language GCSE Study Summary](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/free-maths-and-english-language-gcse-study-summary/): Our Study Summaries provide a breakdown of the units of work in each course. This Maths and English Language GCSE combination is common to all exam boards so we're delighted to offer it for free. If you find them useful don't forget to come back and get your fully personalised summary.    The checklist is in the form of RAG status boxes. It's an intuitive system of Red Amber and Green, that visually identifies how confident your teen feels about a topic. A great way to prioritise future revision effort.
- [A Level Revision Bundle Special](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/a-level-revision-bundle-special/): Everything you need to get going quickly with your AS and A Level study planning and make sure you get great content coverage.    Your bespoke A Level revision bundle contains:     	The Buddy Board   	3 A Level course sets   	Dry wipe pens    Once you’ve placed your order we’ll be in touch to get your specific courses. The reason that’s important is that our planning sets are created for each exam board.
- [Your Complete Course Checklists](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/your-complete-gcse-course-checklists/): You want your child to feel confident and in control, not overwhelmed by the mountain of revision. We get it. That's why Your Complete Course Checklists are the perfect, low-cost solution to kickstart their study plan instantly.    These aren't generic guides; they are custom-made for your teen's specific subjects and exam board specifications. Each checklist turns the vast syllabus into a clear, manageable to-do list, taking the guesswork out of where to start.    Think of it as the ultimate stress-buster. It's a simple, yet incredibly effective tool that transfers ownership of the revision plan to your teen. For just the price of a coffee and cake, you give them a definitive path through the GCSE maze and the confidence to conquer their exams.    Stop organising revision—start doing it.
- [Primary Home School Planner with Flexi Buddy Board](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/primary-home-school-planner-with-flexi-buddy-board/): The Primary planner covers the core subjects of Maths, English and Science and also Reading, Spellings, PE, Creative and Project activities. It's everything you need to them your young learners on track - and out of your hair!  Kids absolutely love to get involved in planning like this. With 40 blank magnetic cards in this bundle, you can also create repeatable tasks to suit their favoured activities - iPads, Lego, Netflix. This helps keep them motivated and engaged. There's no limit to what you can organise, create a bank of meals for dinners, household chores for them to get involved in.  This kit contains:   	The Flexi Buddy Board - our new lightweight and more compact weekly planner  	5 of each - Maths, English, Science, Reading Spellings, PE  	3 of each - Creative, Project  	40 blank magnets  	Wipeable pens and eraser set 
- [Home Starter with Flexi Buddy Board](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/home-starter-with-flexi-buddy-board/): This fantastic value set has everything that you need to effectively organise and structure time with your children. Kids absolutely love to get involved. Create repeatable tasks with the blanks magnets to suit their favored activities - iPads, Lego, Netflix - alongside the ones that they need to be doing - reading, creative projects, maths, spellings and so on. There's no limit to what you can organise, create a bank of meals for dinners, household chores for them to get involved in.    This also works for older children, structuring homework, preparing for end of year tests and so on.    This kit contains:     	The Flexi Buddy Board - our new lightweight and more compact weekly planner   	40 blank magnets   	Wipeable pens and eraser set  
- [Flexi-planner](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/flexi-planner/): The Study Buddy's flexible planner is just that! A smaller format week to view schedule that is ideal for younger learners, people with limited space, or just to have something more portable.  The planner is:   	Magnet receptive  	Dry wipeable  	Lightweight  	Can be stuck to walls, doors or other places  	Easy to store  	A2 (that's 59 x 42 cm)  Not everyone wants or needs the full-size board (we do recommend it for GCSEs and A Levels where possible). This alternative is perfect for those situations where you're not managing a backlog of work, but perhaps managing daily activities. They are dry-wipe so perfectly reusable. And the weekly grid is designed to work with our magnetic cards and revision sets.
- [SATs Study Set](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/sats-study-set/): This set is specifically built for the 11+ entrance exams and the Key Stage 2 (KS2) SATs. It covers the topics required for both English and Maths, following the curriculum from the UK Government. Keep your child's education on track with this essential set.
- [Blank and Tailorable Magnetic Cards](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/blank-magnetic-cards/): These blank magnetic cards are ideal for creating your own recurring activities. We always include a few with our sets and bundles but if would you like more, this set of 40 blanks should keep you going for a while!  They are the perfect size for the cells in The Buddy Board and Flexi Board.  But you don't need that, they will obviously work with anything metal - like a fridge.
- [GCSE Revision Sets](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/gcse-revision-sets/): The Study Buddy's GCSE revision sets are pre-printed, magnetic cards with every topic and module from their specific subjects and exam boards. No more time wasted trying to figure out what to revise—we've done the heavy lifting for you.  These sets of 'bite-sized' magnetic cards turn a daunting syllabus into a visual 'to-do' list. They help your teen build confidence and stay on track, whether they're an anxious planner or a last-minute crammer. Simply pull the cards for a week's study plan and watch them power through their revision. Please note these are not Flash Cards, we're all about planning. They are the perfect complement to the lessons taught in school and by tutors. All exam boards and subjects are covered. Includes iGCSEs and BTEC Level 1/2.
- [GCSE Revision Bundle Special](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/gcse-revision-bundle-special/): Give your teen a proven, nag-free way to master their GCSEs and banish exam stress for good. The Study Buddy's personalised revision bundle breaks down every subject and exam board into manageable, 'bite-sized' units on magnetic cards.    It's a visual 'to-do' list that details exactly what needs to be covered, and gives teens a clear, step-by-step path to follow. You get peace of mind, they get the confidence and control to succeed.  This bundle has everything in our armoury to support you and your teen     	The Buddy Board   	Up to 10 GCSE course sets (we cover all exam boards and subjects)   	Dry-wipe pen and eraser set   	Access to The Digital Tracker   	Your Complete Course Checklists (PDF for you to keep and print).  
- [A level and AS Level sets](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/alevel-sets/): The Study Buddy's A Level revision sets are pre-printed, magnetic cards with every topic and module from their specific subjects and exam boards. No more time wasted trying to figure out what to revise—we've done the heavy lifting for you.  These A Level sets of 'bite-sized' magnetic cards, turn a daunting syllabus into a visual 'to-do' list. They help your teen build confidence and stay on track, whether they're an anxious over-worker or a last-minute crammer, these sets are all about planning to make the most of time. Simply pull the cards for a week's study plan and watch them power through their revision. Please note these are not Flash Cards, we're all about planning. They are the perfect complement to the lessons taught in school and by tutors. All exam boards and subjects are covered.
- [Drywipe pens and eraser set](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/drywipe-pens-and-eraser-set/): This handy set of whiteboard pens come with four colours, black, red, green and blue. And, of course the all important whiteboard eraser. Essential for planning and replanning the weeks ahead.
- [Digital Tracker](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/digital-tracker/): Want to know exactly where your child stands with their GCSE revision?  The Study Buddy Digital Tracker is the ultimate online companion for their study journey. We've preloaded every single GCSE, iGCSE and Nat5 course in the UK, broken down into manageable units. With just a few clicks, your teen can add their subjects and track their progress with a visual dashboard.    This isn't just about ticking boxes. The Digital Tracker also lets your child set a confidence level for each topic, from "Nailed it!" to "Need to focus." The dashboard's progress bars and color-coded system instantly reveal where they need to spend more time, taking the guesswork out of revision. For a low, one-time cost, you can give your child the power to take control of their studies, boost their confidence, and turn a daunting syllabus into a clear, actionable plan.    Purchase The Study Buddy Digital Tracker today and get a real-time view of their progress. If you've already registered, click here to access your profile.
- [The Buddy Board](https://thestudybuddy.com/product/the-buddy-board/): The Buddy board is a 90cm x 60 magnetic dry wipe whiteboard. with an unfussy aluminum frame. The week grid is already printed on to it. It's nice and light at only 1.5kgs. It contains your fixings.


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