# education-lounge.co.uk


## Posts

- [When Learning Gets Hard: Why Struggle Is Essential for Progress](https://education-lounge.co.uk/why-struggle-is-essential-for-progress/): How much difficulty should we remove from a child's path, and when does helping become rescuing? Starting with the harsh landscapes of Iceland, we explore how struggle can shape resilience, confidence and independence. We discuss pressure, perfectionism, timed exams and knowing when to let young people work through challenges themselves.
- [What Makes A Truly Great Teacher?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/what-makes-a-truly-great-teacher/): In this episode, the impact of educators on student confidence is examined, emphasizing the transformative role the right teacher can play. Early encouragement shapes a child's long-term potential, while restrictive educational systems often hinder effective teaching. The discussion highlights how students benefit from teachers who engage their interests, fostering a love for learning that transcends mere exam preparation. It stresses the significance of emotional intelligence in teaching and the importance of creating trusting relationships between parents and educators to enhance student outcomes.
- [Key Takeaways - Season 5 Wrap Up](https://education-lounge.co.uk/key-takeaways-season-5-wrap-up/): The Education Lounge Podcast has concluded its fifth season, reflecting on audience favorites and key insights from various episodes. Discussions ranged from the value of the 11 Plus exam to how schools can better support neurodivergent students. The season also tackled the role of creativity in writing amidst technological advancements, the symbolism in festive films like Die Hard, and the importance of resets in personal growth. Key takeaways emphasized learning through play, the impact of societal expectations on student performance, and the evolving landscape of private education. Overall, the season provided valuable perspectives on various educational topics.
- [Is the UK School System Still Fit for Purpose in 2026? | Ofsted, AI & Mental Health](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-the-uk-school-system-still-fit-for-purpose/): In this podcast episode, the discussion focused on the inadequacies of the current education system in preparing students for real life. Key points highlighted include the need for curriculum changes that prioritise life skills, mental health, and relevant learning experiences over traditional exam preparation. The podcast emphasises the need for a supportive educational environment in which teachers are not constrained by outdated structures. Parents are encouraged to engage in the educational process and to foster trust with educators. The conclusion advocates a holistic approach to education that adapts to modern challenges, ensuring that children are better prepared for their futures.
- [ADHD, Autism and Neurodivergence: How They Affect School, Work and Adult Life.](https://education-lounge.co.uk/adhd-autism/): This episode emphasises the importance of neurodivergence acceptance in both personal and professional spheres, aiming for genuine connections. It provides guidance on discussing neurodivergence with partners or employers, presenting practical strategies for clear communication that fosters mutual understanding. The text stresses that true support is built through learning about each other, highlighting the significance of tailored approaches as each neurodivergent individual is unique. It critiques systemic issues in the education sector, advocating for enhanced community involvement and support networks to aid neurodivergent individuals and build healthier relationships and environments.
- [Is Labelling Bad for Children and Adults?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-labelling-bad-for-children-and-adults/): This episode discusses the dual nature of labelling in education, emphasizing their potential for both support and limitation. While labels can enhance understanding and provide necessary adjustments, they may also contribute to fixed identities and self-limiting beliefs among children if miscommunicated. Key strategies include contextualising labels, leveraging practical teaching methods, and promoting growth mindsets. The conversation highlights the importance of teacher behavior and the need for adaptable educational environments that accommodate diverse learning needs for optimal development.
- [Private Schools Are Buying Prep Schools.](https://education-lounge.co.uk/private-schools-are-buying-prep-schools/): The acquisition of prep schools by secondary private schools is reshaping the educational landscape, creating fewer external places for Year 7 admissions. This trend may encourage parents to consider early entry routes at ages 4+ or 7+, aiming for a more predictable pathway into desirable institutions. Scarcity of places may increase fees and competition, prompting a shift in parental strategy. Despite the benefits of such feeder schools, parents should be aware that admission is not guaranteed and focus on fostering solid foundations, confidence, and a genuine love for learning in their children.
- [When Should You Start 11 Plus Preparation?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/gcse-mock-results-what-to-do-next/): In this episode, we discuss the optimal timing for preparing for the 11 Plus, examining differences between Year 4 and Year 5. The importance of confidence and mindset is highlighted, alongside changes in GL and CSSE formats that have heightened family pressures. Redbridge Tuition offers small group classes focusing on targeted skills, with an emphasis on building foundational knowledge in Year 4 and refining skills in Year 5, ultimately fostering both academic success and self-belief in students.
- [GCSE Mock Results: What To Do Next](https://education-lounge.co.uk/after-gcse-mocks/): This episode discusses the aftermath of GCSE mock examinations, focusing on understanding results rather than letting them define student identity. It highlights the importance of feedback, addressing common mistakes that lead to lost marks, and creating a 'mistake map' for improvement. Supportive parenting after results is emphasised, highlighting the significance of effort over grades and fostering a positive mindset. The episode concludes with practical strategies for students, including prioritising challenge areas, staying organised, and preparing effectively for future exams, especially in Maths and English.
- [Resets - Why Immediate Gratification Is Destroying Your Potential](https://education-lounge.co.uk/resets-2/): In this episode of the Education Lounge podcast, the hosts reflect on the challenges of returning to routine after a break, discussing the importance of effective rest without guilt. They introduce the DOSE concept—dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins—as a framework for understanding motivation and well-being. Key points include the effects of breaks on biological rhythms, the importance of establishing small, manageable habits for productivity, and the concept of momentum. Practical strategies for students and adults alike to ease back into routines are shared, emphasising the significance of mental space and self-kindness.
- [I Was Wrong, Die Hard Is a Christmas Film! Movie Breakdown](https://education-lounge.co.uk/i-was-wrong-die-hard-is-a-christmas-film-movie-breakdown-2/): The episode discusses the evolving landscape of creative writing, emphasizing its ongoing importance despite competition from various media like games and social platforms. It highlights the significance of handwriting in learning, noting its advantages over typing. The hosts suggest that constraints can enhance storytelling, while early writing attempts should embrace creativity without fear of messiness. They provide practical advice for fostering writing habits among children and adults, stressing the benefits of a supportive environment and consistent practice.
- [Is Creative Writing Dead in the Age of AI and TikTok or Just Evolving?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-creative-writing-dead-in-the-age-of-ai-and-tiktok-or-just-evolving-2/): The episode discusses the evolving landscape of creative writing, emphasizing its ongoing importance despite competition from various media like games and social platforms. It highlights the significance of handwriting in learning, noting its advantages over typing. The hosts suggest that constraints can enhance storytelling, while early writing attempts should embrace creativity without fear of messiness. They provide practical advice for fostering writing habits among children and adults, stressing the benefits of a supportive environment and consistent practice.
- [Is the 11 Plus Even Worth It in 2026?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-the-11-plus-even-worth-it-in-2026-2/): This episode examines the relevance of the 11 Plus exam for 2026 entry, particularly for families in Redbridge, East London, and Essex. Key changes in assessment formats since 2023 are discussed, including the dominant role of GL Assessment and the specifics of CSSE in Essex. Emphasis is placed on the importance of vocabulary, reading stamina, and the strong foundations needed in Year 6 for exam success. The podcast addresses the balance between preparation and avoiding burnout, the emotional impact on families, and factors to consider when deciding if 11 Plus tuition is suitable for a child.
- [What You Should Learn Right Now](https://education-lounge.co.uk/what-you-should-learn-right-now/): To kick off season 5 we start by exploring the implications of automation and artificial intelligence (AI) on future job markets and education. It emphasises the importance of human connection, resilience, and adaptability. It discusses personal branding, the rise of small businesses, and the significance of soft skills. As knowledge becomes more easily accessible, personal attributes like judgment and relationships gain value. The podcast encourages young individuals and parents to prepare for shifts in available jobs, suggesting a focus on fields requiring licenses or human-centric roles. Ultimately, it advocates for pursuing passions and developing skills unintelligible to AI to stay relevant in the evolving landscape.
- [Key Takeaways - Season 4 Wrap Up](https://education-lounge.co.uk/key-takeaways-season-4-wrap-up/): The Education Lounge Podcast wraps up its fourth season by highlighting key insights and advice from previous episodes. Topics covered include the importance of play in learning, challenges boys face in education, the impact of perfectionism, and the value of private schooling. The season concludes with reflections on after-school activities and their potential for burnout.
- [After-School Clubs: Do Extracurricular Activities Cause Burnout?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/after-school-clubs-do-extracurricular-activities-cause-burnout-2/): The discussion on extracurricular activities highlights their significant impact on children's academic performance, social skills, and mental health. While activities contribute positively, excessive involvement can lead to burnout and financial burdens. The comparison of global educational models showcases different approaches, emphasizing the need for balance and understanding parental influences on children's choices.
- [Is Private School Worth It? High Costs, Small Classes and the REAL ROI](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-private-school-worth-it-high-costs-small-classes-and-the-real-roi-2/): The podcast discusses the rising costs of private education in 2025, particularly with added VAT, weighing the benefits against financial trade-offs. It explores alternatives such as state education combined with tutoring, the importance of networking, and real parent experiences. Key outcomes highlight the need for personalized educational paths for children.
- [Why Failure Is Essential for Growth](https://education-lounge.co.uk/why-failure-is-essential-for-growth-2/): In this episode of The Education Lounge, the hosts discuss the significance of failure as a growth tool. Inspired by James Dyson's numerous product iterations, they emphasize the importance of resilience, learning from mistakes, and reframing failure from a detrimental experience to a valuable lesson that fosters personal and academic development.
- [Why Boys Struggle More at School - The Truth About Gender, Learning & Brain Development](https://education-lounge.co.uk/why-boys-struggle-more-at-school/): The Education Lounge Podcast discusses the increasing education gender gap, focusing on why boys may struggle in current school systems. It examines differences in brain development, literacy patterns, and the need for tailored teaching methods. Emphasizing the role of teachers and the impact of societal perceptions, it debates whether boys should start school later.
- [Why Learning Styles Are a Myth - The Real Science Behind How We Learn Best](https://education-lounge.co.uk/why-learning-styles-are-a-myth/): In this episode, Prajay and Jon critique the myth of VARK learning styles, emphasising the importance of adapting learning methods to specific tasks. He advocates for research-backed strategies such as active recall, spaced repetition, and using various study techniques rather than adhering to fixed labels. The focus is on improving retrieval and transfer in learning.
- [Is Perfectionism DESTROYING Your Progress?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-perfectionism-destroying-your-progress/): This episode delves into perfectionism, exploring its impact on daily life through personal anecdotes and psychological insights. It distinguishes between maladaptive and adaptive perfectionism, discusses famous figures like Steve Jobs, and offers strategies to overcome perfectionism. Practical tips include embracing progress, setting deadlines, and fostering self-compassion to find balance in an imperfect world.
- [What Makes Elf a Christmas Classic? - Elf Movie Breakdown](https://education-lounge.co.uk/elf-movie-breakdown/): This episode discusses the 21st anniversary of the movie "Elf," highlighting Buddy's innocent charm and the film's comedic elements. It emphasises themes of family, joy, and the critique of corporate culture, along with character development. The analysis includes cast insights, behind-the-scenes facts, and how "Elf" ranks among Christmas films.
- [Is Play REALLY Better for Learning?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-play-really-better-for-learning/): The episode emphasizes the significance of play as a crucial learning mechanism for both children and adults. It advocates for integrating structured and unstructured play in educational settings, promoting creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity. Additionally, it highlights the importance of parental engagement and managing screen time to foster balanced, playful learning environments at home.
- [Key Takeaways - Season 3 Wrap Up](https://education-lounge.co.uk/key-takeaways-season-3-wrap-up/): The Education Lounge Podcast concludes its third season, summarising pivotal lessons and insights from past episodes. Key discussions include teacher migration to Dubai due to workload and leadership quality, the role of AI as a supportive tool in education rather than a replacement, and the relevance of basic skills in creative professions. Additionally, the podcast explores the increasing scrutiny over phone usage in schools, advocating for restrictions to enhance focus, and debates the necessity of university education in light of changing career paths. Each episode emphasises the importance of human interaction, social skills, and preparatory confidence for children in education.
- [Will Artificial Intelligence Replace Teachers Completely?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/will-artificial-intelligence-replace-teachers-completely/): This content discusses the evolving role of AI in education, questioning if AI can replace teachers entirely. While AI can enhance administrative tasks and personalize learning experiences, concerns arise regarding its ability to replicate essential human interactions and moral judgment. The discussion includes potential benefits such as cost reduction and adaptive learning but also highlights risks like data misuse and ethical implications. Ultimately, both skepticism and optimism exist about AI's future in education, emphasizing the importance of the human element in teaching.
- [The Truth About Private School Entry: What You Need to Know](https://education-lounge.co.uk/the-truth-about-private-school-entry-2/): This month's podcast features Ambica discussing Veda's journey through the 11+ school admissions process. Key strategies include starting without stress, utilizing realistic mock exams, and offering personalized 1-on-1 sessions as needed. The discussion also covers choosing between grammar and independent schools, considering factors like class size, extracurricular options, and ethos. Ambica emphasizes the importance of maintaining a calming atmosphere for children during drop-offs and the financial implications of private schooling. Ultimately, the approach fosters a supportive environment that prioritizes the child's confidence and well-being.
- [How to Make the Most of the Summer Break](https://education-lounge.co.uk/how-to-make-the-most-of-the-summer-break-2/): This episode discusses how children can make the most of their holidays through a balance of relaxation, enjoyment, and personal development. Key points include the significance of connecting with friends and family, trying new hobbies, and exploring different places. Older children are encouraged to consider jobs or volunteer work to develop skills. Tips for building healthy habits and preparing for the school year are provided, emphasizing the importance of rest and light study. Depending on their year group, students should engage in activities that promote well-being while maintaining academic readiness.
- [The Truth About VAT and Private Schools](https://education-lounge.co.uk/the-truth-about-vat-and-private-schools-2/): The Education Lounge Podcast concludes its third season, summarising pivotal lessons and insights from past episodes. Key discussions include teacher migration to Dubai due to workload and leadership quality, the role of AI as a supportive tool in education rather than a replacement, and the relevance of basic skills in creative professions. Additionally, the podcast explores the increasing scrutiny over phone usage in schools, advocating for restrictions to enhance focus, and debates the necessity of university education in light of changing career paths. Each episode emphasises the importance of human interaction, social skills, and preparatory confidence for children in education.
- [Phones Being BANNED In UK Schools](https://education-lounge.co.uk/phones-being-banned-in-uk-schools-2/): The discussion highlights the increasing debate over mobile phone use in schools, with over 2,000 American institutions imposing bans due to concerns about learning, focus, and mental health. The episode explores the advantages and disadvantages of these bans, revealing that schools enforcing them tend to see improved academic performance. It examines the addictive nature of social media, its psychological impacts, and the need for clear school policies. The conversation suggests a distinction between regulated phone use and outright bans, debating the implications for students and their attention spans while navigating modern technology.
- [Leaving London: Why Teachers Are Moving to Dubai](https://education-lounge.co.uk/leaving-london-why-teachers-are-moving-to-dubai-2/): The Education Lounge Podcast concludes its third season, summarising pivotal lessons and insights from past episodes. Key discussions include teacher migration to Dubai due to workload and leadership quality, the role of AI as a supportive tool in education rather than a replacement, and the relevance of basic skills in creative professions. Additionally, the podcast explores the increasing scrutiny over phone usage in schools, advocating for restrictions to enhance focus, and debates the necessity of university education in light of changing career paths. Each episode emphasises the importance of human interaction, social skills, and preparatory confidence for children in education.
- [Is Writing Still Important in 2024?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/leaving-london-why-teachers-are-moving-to-dubai-2-3/): In this episode of The Education Lounge Podcast, the hosts discuss the enduring significance of writing in modern communication, despite advancements in AI and automation. They emphasize how writing enhances clarity, sharpens thinking, and is essential in various contexts, from personal journaling to professional correspondence. The episode highlights the importance of practical writing skills for students, the role of clear communication in job applications, and the benefits of consistent writing practice. Overall, the podcast advocates for writing as an essential tool for self-expression, understanding, and career advancement.
- [Becoming a Freelance Editor - What Does It Take?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/becoming-a-freelance-editor-2/): In this episode, freelance video editor Andrew shares his journey from a production runner to editing for prominent brands plus taking on post-production for The Education Lounge itself. He discusses the balance between creativity and technical skills necessary for success in creative fields, emphasising the importance of communication. The conversation explores how AI and automation are altering creative jobs, the relevance of a university degree for aspiring artists, and the emerging trend of side hustles among young creatives. Andrew offers practical advice for entering the industry, highlighting the need for adaptability, continuous learning, and relationship-building to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
- [Making 2024 the Best Year of Our Lives](https://education-lounge.co.uk/making-2024-the-best-year-of-our-lives-2/): In the latest episode of The Education Lounge, Prajay and Jon share reflections on their personal and professional goals for 2024. They discuss how goal setting impacts their work with Redbridge Tuition and address the psychology of ambition, perfectionism, and self-discipline. While acknowledging the potential drawbacks of goal-setting, they emphasize the importance of building sustainable systems to foster progress. Key takeaways include the value of flexibility in goal adjustment, prioritizing emotional intelligence, and the role of reflection in personal growth. Their conversation highlights the balance between ambition and gratitude, and urges focusing on meaningful goals for deeper fulfillment in life.
- [Home Alone Full Movie Breakdown](https://education-lounge.co.uk/home-alone-full-movie-breakdown-2/): Home Alone marks its 33rd anniversary as a cherished Christmas classic that resonates across generations. The film explores themes of family, love, and personal growth. Kevin’s journey from isolation to appreciation of family connections serves as a poignant reminder of what truly matters during the holidays. Key elements include the transformations of Old Man Marley, representing redemption, and the Wet Bandits, symbolizing chaos and emptiness without family. The film employs visual storytelling and humor to convey deeper messages about fear, love, and maturity. Overall, Home Alone remains a timeless tale about understanding one's place in a family and the importance of togetherness.
- [The 11 Plus - Understanding the Current Landscape](https://education-lounge.co.uk/the-11-plus-understanding-the-current-landscape-2/): In this episode, we examine the evolution of the 11 Plus exam, originally created to identify academic potential after World War II. The discussion highlights the emergence of new exam boards like Atom and Future Stories, the shift to online and adaptive formats, and challenges surrounding social mobility and catchment areas. Key takeaways include the importance of maturity and consistency over pure intelligence, the need for diversified preparation, and the impact of parental support. The future may see AI-driven testing, posing new challenges and enhancing accessibility in assessments.
- [Key Takeaways - Season 2 Wrap Up](https://education-lounge.co.uk/key-takeaways-season-2-wrap-up-2/): In this episode, we examine the evolution of the 11 Plus exam, originally created to identify academic potential after World War II. The discussion highlights the emergence of new exam boards like Atom and Future Stories, the shift to online and adaptive formats, and challenges surrounding social mobility and catchment areas. Key takeaways include the importance of maturity and consistency over pure intelligence, the need for diversified preparation, and the impact of parental support. The future may see AI-driven testing, posing new challenges and enhancing accessibility in assessments.
- [Are School Holidays Too Short or Too Long?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/are-school-holidays-too-short-or-too-long-2/): In the UK, there's ongoing debate about the structure of school holidays, with discussions on whether they should be shortened, extended, or redistributed. Prajay and Jon analyze the historical reasons behind the current system, which was originally tied to agrarian lifestyles, and how it impacts families, teachers, and students today. They highlight challenges such as the summer learning gap, childcare issues due to working parents, and differences in holiday structures between independent and state schools. The episode concludes with practical advice for students starting the academic year, emphasizing the importance of organization and reviewing previous material.
- [AI - What It Is and How It Will Impact Us All](https://education-lounge.co.uk/ai-what-it-is-and-how-it-will-impact-us-all-2/): In the UK, there's ongoing debate about the structure of school holidays, with discussions on whether they should be shortened, extended, or redistributed. Prajay and Jon analyze the historical reasons behind the current system, which was originally tied to agrarian lifestyles, and how it impacts families, teachers, and students today. They highlight challenges such as the summer learning gap, childcare issues due to working parents, and differences in holiday structures between independent and state schools. The episode concludes with practical advice for students starting the academic year, emphasizing the importance of organization and reviewing previous material.
- [Becoming a Doctor - The Journey of Aspiring Medics](https://education-lounge.co.uk/becoming-a-doctor-the-journey-of-aspiring-medics/): In this podcast episode, Ibrahim and Fatima, final-year medical students at UCL, discuss the challenges and rewards of their medical education journey. They highlight the rigorous application process, intense workload, and the emotional resilience required in healthcare. The narrative emphasizes the importance of experiences that shape not only professional skills but personal growth as well. Key takeaways include the necessity of genuine motivation, early academic preparation, significant work experience, and the need for effective communication in patient care. The students assert that a medical career can lead to diverse paths and encourage prospective students to maintain a balanced lifestyle to avoid burnout.
- [Tutoring as a Career](https://education-lounge.co.uk/tutoring-as-a-career/): In this episode, the journey into tutoring is explored, highlighting diverse entry points from helping friends to working at centers. Emphasizing the blend of subject knowledge and interpersonal skills, the discussion addresses challenges in an unregulated market, including safeguarding. The hosts examine the advantages and disadvantages of tutoring, focusing on its impact on communication and confidence. They share potential career pathways, from flexible side income to managing centers and franchising. Ultimately, the rewarding aspect lies in witnessing student progress, despite the demands of unsociable hours and lifestyle trade-offs.
- [Why You Need to Read](https://education-lounge.co.uk/why-you-need-to-read/): In this episode of The Education Lounge Podcast, the importance of reading for both children and adults is explored, highlighting teaching flaws and modern challenges in literacy. The discussion emphasizes early exposure, pleasure reading's benefits, and diminishing imagination due to technology. It critiques schools for an overemphasis on technical analysis at the expense of emotional engagement and comprehension. The episode calls for a cultural shift to view reading as a lifelong habit essential for communication, empathy, and personal growth.
- [What They Don't Teach You In School But Should](https://education-lounge.co.uk/what-they-dont-teach-you-in-school-but-should/): This episode discusses essential life skills often overlooked in formal education, emphasizing that while they are not inherently complex, they require clarity and practice. Key topics include effective time management amidst distractions, the importance of quality sleep for productivity, and vital social skills like conflict resolution and confidence-building. Listeners are encouraged to cultivate basic DIY knowledge, organizational skills, and financial literacy, pointing to significant advantages when these skills are developed early. The overarching message is that outcomes improve dramatically with consistent practice, making these competencies essential for success in daily life.
- [Teachers. Overworked and Underpaid?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/teachers-overworked-and-underpaid/): This episode examines the role of homework in education, highlighting when it aids learning versus when it becomes detrimental. It contrasts engaging assignments that promote exploration with tedious tasks that yield little value. Effective homework reinforces understanding, fosters organization, and enhances exam performance if well-structured, while excessive homework can lead to stress and hinder well-being. Practical strategies for homework efficacy are shared, emphasizing the need for purpose, balance, and gradual challenge. Ultimately, homework's effectiveness hinges on intentional design that supports learning without overwhelming students.
- [How Important is Homework](https://education-lounge.co.uk/how-important-is-homework/): This episode examines the role of homework in education, highlighting when it aids learning versus when it becomes detrimental. It contrasts engaging assignments that promote exploration with tedious tasks that yield little value. Effective homework reinforces understanding, fosters organization, and enhances exam performance if well-structured, while excessive homework can lead to stress and hinder well-being. Practical strategies for homework efficacy are shared, emphasizing the need for purpose, balance, and gradual challenge. Ultimately, homework's effectiveness hinges on intentional design that supports learning without overwhelming students.
- [A Redbridge Christmas](https://education-lounge.co.uk/a-redbridge-christmas/): A lighter Education Lounge conversation about Christmas plans, family traditions and the things that make the festive season memorable. We compare favourite films, songs, food, presents and biscuit tins.
- [Running Your Own Business](https://education-lounge.co.uk/running-your-own-business/): Elena from Camden Image Gallery joins us to discuss the realities of running a business. We explore the creativity and independence involved alongside paperwork, costs, systems and the pressure of keeping everything working.
- [GCSEs and A-Levels 2022: How Valuable Are They?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/gcses-and-a-levels-2022-how-valuable-are-they/): Suhridh and Jon discuss the value of GCSEs and A-levels as Season 2 begins. They compare their own school experiences with what they have seen through tutoring, asking whether exams have become harder and what qualifications really tell us.
- [Publishing Your Own Book | Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing](https://education-lounge.co.uk/publishing-your-own-book-self-publishing-vs-traditional-publishing/): What happens between writing a book and getting it into a reader's hands? Drawing on our own publishing experiences, we discuss developing, designing and producing books.
- [How Should You Invest?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/how-should-you-invest/): What does it mean to invest time or money in a better future? We discuss financial education, saving habits and the knowledge many people wish they had encountered at school.
- [Should Your Child Take the 11+?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/should-your-child-take-the-11-plus/): Should every child prepare for the 11 plus? We discuss what the exam is for, why families consider grammar schools and why that route is not necessarily right for everyone.
- [The Metaverse: The Evolution of Education?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/the-metaverse-the-evolution-of-education/): Could virtual and augmented reality change education, or are we asking technology to solve the wrong problems? We return to the future of learning after the first episode's discussion of automation and online teaching.
- [GCSEs and A-Levels 2022: What's Changing?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/gcses-and-a-levels-2022-what-s-changing/): Ahead of the return of formal exams in 2022, we discuss the changes announced for GCSE and A-level students, including advance information and adjustments to assessment.
- [Nurseries](https://education-lounge.co.uk/nurseries/): Jon talks with Rupa and Vicky about twenty years of The Hunnypot Day Nursery in Huddersfield. They discuss what a nursery offers children and families, and the work involved in running one.
- [Motivation (From ‘1s’ to ‘7s’)](https://education-lounge.co.uk/motivation-from-1s-to-7s/): Margaret shares her daughter's experience of rebuilding confidence during her GCSE years. The discussion explores the difference that encouragement, communication and someone believing in a learner can make.
- [Siblings](https://education-lounge.co.uk/siblings/): Jeshal talks about her daughters' different personalities, learning habits and relationship with one another. We discuss organisation, confidence in asking questions and how tuition fits alongside school.
- [Is Having a Career Plan Important?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/is-having-a-career-plan-important/): Some people know what they want to do from childhood; others find their direction through experience. Adam and his mum join the discussion to explore those different routes, including his early interest in dentistry.
- [How Did Children Fare During Lockdown?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/how-did-children-fare-during-lockdown/): What did lockdown mean for children's learning and relationships? Recorded in 2021, this conversation looks at social interaction, mental health and the strengths and limitations of online lessons.
- [The Art of Persistence](https://education-lounge.co.uk/the-art-of-persistence/): Two parents describe how they balance work, school, sport and extra support for their children. Their experiences include learning difficulties, confidence and the practical challenge of keeping a busy family timetable working.
- [The 7 Plus Experience](https://education-lounge.co.uk/the-7-plus-experience/): Two parents join Rupa to discuss their children's experience of preparing for the 7 plus. They describe the learning, confidence and family routines behind the exam, including writing, interviews and extracurricular activities.
- [Life at Forest School](https://education-lounge.co.uk/life-at-forest-school/): Prajay and Jon look back on their time at Forest School with their old school friend James. They compare memorable lessons, teachers, school facilities and the transition from prep school to secondary school.
- [What Should I Be When I Grow Up?](https://education-lounge.co.uk/what-should-i-be-when-i-grow-up/): What might work and education look like in a world shaped by artificial intelligence? In the first Education Lounge podcast, we explore automation, economic change and the human qualities that technology might struggle to replace.

## Pages

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- [Contact](https://education-lounge.co.uk/contact/): Naturally, we are excited to work with outside parties interested in having their voices heard, so do not hesitate to contact us if you wish to get involved or let us know if there are certain issues you would like us to cover on the show.
- [Episodes](https://education-lounge.co.uk/episodes/)
- [About](https://education-lounge.co.uk/about/): "Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world".

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