Academic Coaching for Parents with Dr Anna York-Weaving
In this podcast, Dr Anna York-Weaving, a scientist and academic coach, helps parents support their children's academic growth and personal development. Each episode offers practical techniques for building strong study habits, resilience, and lifelong learning skills in a world full of digital distractions. The show also features interviews with scientists, educators, and industry experts who share insights on education and child development. It aims to give parents actionable advice for navigating modern parenting and their children's academic paths.
Episodes
#53 - How to Outsmart Anxiety with Lily Felton
Is anxiety always bad, and can we learn to outsmart it?Anxiety is a normal part of life, but for some young people it can become difficult to understand and manage, particularly when it begins to affect learning, sleep or everyday routines.In this episode, I am joined by Lily Felton, a trainee clinical psychologist at King’s College London and the author of Outsmart Anxiety: A Practical Guide to U
#52 - How to Start the New School Year Right: 6 Essential Habits Every Student Needs
Have you ever started a new school year determined that this one will be more organised, only to find that within a few weeks homework, deadlines and schoolwork are already starting to pile up?The beginning of a new academic year provides an important opportunity to establish routines and systems that can make learning easier to manage throughout the year.🎙️ In this episode, I discuss:✅ How to est
#51 - The Teenage Brain: What Every Parent Needs to Know with Dr John Coleman
Have you ever wondered why your teenager can seem mature and thoughtful one moment, and impulsive, emotional or resistant the next?Understanding what is happening in the developing teenage brain can help us make sense of some of the changes we see during adolescence and, importantly, shape how we support young people through them.In this episode, I am joined by Dr John Coleman OBE, a leading psych
#50 - How to Build Academic Confidence: The Science of Self-Efficacy
Have you ever heard your child say “I can’t do this” before they have even really tried?A student’s belief in their own ability can influence how they approach challenge, how much effort they invest and how long they persist when learning becomes difficult.In this episode, I explore the psychology of self-efficacy: our belief in our ability to succeed at a specific task. Drawing on the work of Pro
#49 - How Slowing Down Can Deepen Your Child’s Learning
Have you ever wondered when your child actually has time to think deeply, apply their knowledge and reflect on how it all fits together?Because deeper learning does not necessarily come from completing more tasks, but from having the time and space to analyse ideas, make connections and learn from mistakes.Children often move from lesson to lesson, activity to activity and task to task, with very
#48 - Mindfulness for Children: Practical Ways to Reduce Stress and Improve Focus with Dr Mark Pearson
Have you ever wondered what mindfulness really means, and whether it could help your child feel calmer, cope with stress and improve their focus?In this episode, I am joined by Dr Mark Pearson, author, educator and counsellor with more than 35 years of experience in expressive therapies. Together, we explore what mindfulness really is, why it has become increasingly important for children growing
#47 - The Psychology of Eating: How Children Develop Their Relationship with Food with Professor Jane Ogden
Have you ever wondered why your child’s eating habits can feel so difficult to manage, even when you know what healthy eating should look like?In this week's episode, I am joined by Professor Jane Ogden, Professor of Health Psychology at University of Surrey, whose work has shaped how we understand the psychological and behavioural factors behind how and why we eat.Professor Ogden has pu
#46 - Understanding Disconnection in Children and How Parents Can Help with Amber Chandler
Have you ever looked at your child and felt that something has shifted in their motivation, their focus or even their engagement?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Amber Chandler, an award-winning educator, author and speaker from New York, with over 20 years of classroom experience.Amber has recently published her book “Reclaiming Connection”, published by Routledge,
#45 - Struggling to Support Your Child During Exams? A Practical Guide to Revision Season
Have you ever felt unsure how to support your child during exam revision season, despite wanting to help them succeed?Because more often than not, the challenge is not your child’s ability, but the lack of a clear system for how to revise effectively.Revision season can be a stressful time not just for students, but for parents too. It can feel like you are constantly trying to motivate, guide and
#44 - How to Teach Critical Thinking to Teenagers in a World of Social Media & Misinformation with Dr Maree Davies
Have you ever asked yourself, in a world shaped by social media, algorithms and constant information, how do we know if our children have the skills to think critically, recognise misinformation and think for themselves?In this episode, I am joined by Dr Maree Davies, a researcher and senior lecturer based at the University of Auckland, whose work focuses on critical thinking and how young people
#43 - GCSE & A-Level Exam Stress: Is Your Child Revising Properly?
Have you found yourself wondering whether your child is actually revising properly for their GCSEs or A-Levels?In the final weeks before exams, many students are sitting at their desks, but without a clear plan, effective study strategies or a structured approach to revision. And as a parent, that uncertainty can feel incredibly stressful.In this episode, I unpack why this stage often feels overwh
#42 - Why Working Less Makes You More Productive with Alex Soojung-Kim Pang
In a culture that celebrates busyness and long working hours, rest is often treated as something we earn after productivity.But what if that idea is completely wrong?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang, founder of 4 Day Week Studio and a globally recognised expert on the future of work. Alex has worked with companies, nonprofits and gove
#41 - Is My Child Lazy? Why Students Avoid Work and What Actually Helps
Have you ever looked at your child, perfectly capable, intelligent and full of potential, and wondered why they delay starting their work?Many parents describe this behaviour as laziness. But more often than not, something else is driving that behaviour.In this episode, I unpack what is really going on when students procrastinate or struggle to begin their work. Drawing on neuroscience, psychology
#40 - The Incredible Teenage Brain Explained: How Conversations, Boundaries and Brain Development Shape Adolescence with Dr Bettina Hohnen
Have you ever felt confused or overwhelmed by your teenager’s behaviour and emotional reactions?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Dr Bettina Hohnen, Clinical Psychologist and Lecturer at University College London, to explore what is really happening inside the teenage brain, and how understanding brain development can transform the way parents communicate, set bounda
#39 - My Child Did Badly in Mocks - What Should I Do Next?
Mock exam results can be unsettling, especially when they are lower than expected. Many parents feel pressure to act quickly, often assuming that more teaching or tutoring is the answer.I take a step back and look at what disappointing mock results actually tell us. I then outline practical ways parents can respond to support early progress.Rather than reacting with panic, we explore how mock resu
#38 - Creating Your Dream Life: Resilience, Reinvention and Purpose with Kristina Karlsson
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Kristina Karlsson, founder of the global stationery brand Kikki. K, bestselling author and creator of the Your Dream Life Starts Here coaching programme.Kristina’s journey is extraordinary. From a single 3am list that sparked a global brand, to navigating the loss of Kikki. K and stepping into a completely new chapter of her life, he
#37 - If Your Child Is Struggling at School, Listen to This First
Have you ever looked at your child’s academic struggles and felt an urgent need to explain why?Because one of the most consistent patterns I see in my academic coaching work is this: when students struggle, parents understandably rush to explanations, before checking whether the foundations for learning are actually in place.In this episode, I introduce a foundations-first approach to academic suc
# 36 - How Brain Oscillations Shape Attention, Learning and Reading With Professor Ole Jensen
How do the brain’s natural rhythms shape attention, memory and learning?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Professor Ole Jensen, Professor of Translational Cognitive Neuroscience at the University of Oxford, to explore how brain oscillations - rhythmic patterns of neural activity - underpin attention, learning and reading. We discuss how these brain rhythms help to co
#35 - The Power of Dialogue: How Conversation Shapes Children’s Learning with Prof Andrew Tolmie
Have you ever wondered why some of your child’s biggest learning moments happen in conversation - when they are explaining an idea, asking questions or debating something with friends?In this episode, I am joined by Professor Andrew Tolmie, Chair of Psychology and Human Development at UCL’s Institute of Education and Deputy Director of the UCL–Birkbeck Centre for Educational Neuroscience.Professor
#34 - How to Create Your Child’s Ideal Week: Routines That Boost Learning, Reduce Stress and Build Balance
Is your child drifting through the school week - rushing homework at the last minute, staying up too late and never quite finding balance?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I share how to design your child’s ideal week: a simple, flexible framework that helps them know what to do and more importantly when. Not a rigid timetable, but a rhythm that reduces stress, supports f
#33 - Adolescent Brain Development and Learning: What Parents and Educators Need to Know with Prof Rogier Kievit
Why does your child’s learning sometimes surge ahead, only to stall or even dip the next year? And what’s really happening in the brain during these uneven stages of growth?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Professor Rogier Kievit, Professor of Developmental Neuroscience at the Donders Institute, Radboud University Medical Center. Rogier’s groundbreaking research
#32 - How the Teenage Brain Learns: Executive Function, Metacognition and Social Influence with Prof Iroise Dumontheil
Why do teenagers sometimes struggle to plan ahead, stay focused or see things from someone else’s point of view? And how can parents support them through these changes?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Professor Iroise Dumontheil, Professor of Psychology and ARC Future Fellow at the University of Melbourne. Her groundbreaking research explores how the adoles
#31 - How Brain Stimulation Unlocks Learning: Neuroscience Breakthroughs with Prof Roi Cohen Kadosh
What if stimulating the brain could help unlock learning, especially for children who struggle the most?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Professor Roi Cohen Kadosh, Head of the School of Psychology at the University of Surrey and a world-leading cognitive neuroscientist. His pioneering research explores how safe, non-invasive brain stimulation can boost lea
#30 - Why Tutoring Isn’t Enough And What Your Child Really Needs to Succeed
As the new academic year begins, many parents are asking themselves: does my child need a tutor?For years, tutoring has been the “go-to” solution when students underperform. But here’s the truth: tutoring often falls short. It repeats the same content children already hear in school, without ever addressing the real reasons behind academic underperformance.In this episode, I’m sharing why tutoring
Top Lessons from Sports Psychology That Can Transform Learning and Motivation with Bradley Busch
⭐ What if the secrets to thriving in school were the same as performing under pressure in elite sport?In this episode, I’m joined by chartered psychologist and co-author of The Science of Learning, Bradley Busch. Bradley shares powerful insights from his work across education and elite sport, helping us understand how the brain learns best, what truly drives motivation and why academic resilience
#28 - The Power of the Page: How Journaling Helps Students, Teachers and Parents with Dr Lucy Kelly
Have you ever felt there’s simply no time to stop and reflect, especially when you’re balancing the demands of teaching, parenting or supporting your child through the ups and downs of school?In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Lucy Kelly, Associate Professor at the University of Bristol and Principal Investigator of the Reimagining the Diary project. We explore how reflective writing, even just a f
#27 - What Students Get Wrong About Learning and How to Fix It with Kate Jones
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Kate Jones, international educator, author and expert on evidence-informed teaching, for a practical conversation on how to study smarter and prepare effectively for exams.We explore how research-backed strategies like retrieval practice, dual coding and elaboration can transform revision and strengthen long-term learning. Kate also s
#26 - How Neuroscience Can Transform Learning and Climate Change Education with Professor Paul Howard-Jones
How can insights from neuroscience transform not only how students learn, but how they engage with some of the biggest challenges facing our world today?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I am joined by Professor Paul Howard-Jones, a leading expert at the intersection of brain science, education and climate change education. Based at the University of Bristol, Paul’s work explores h
#25 - How to Help Your Child Manage Exam Stress During Revision Season
Does your child seem more anxious, overwhelmed or avoidant as exams approach?In this episode, I unpack what exam stress really looks like, and why revision season is often the peak point for overwhelm. Because it’s not just about workload. It’s about uncertainty, comparison and the mental toll of trying to “get it all done.”You’ll learn why students overestimate what they can achieve in a day, why
#24 - Struggling to Remember? The Real Reason Students Forget and What to Do About It
Have you ever heard your child say, “I just can’t remember any of this,” and felt unsure what to do next?In this episode, I unpack why so many students struggle with memory and what we, as parents and educators, can do to help. Because memory isn’t just about trying harder. It’s a skill that can be strengthened with the right strategies and support.🎙️ In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ How memory wor
#23 - Study Smarter, Not Harder: The Science of Learning with Dr Carolina Kuepper-Tetzel
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Dr Carolina Kuepper-Tetzel, a cognitive psychologist and senior lecturer in psychology at the University of Glasgow. Known for her work on memory, retrieval practice and the spacing effect, Dr Kuepper-Tetzel is passionate about making cognitive science accessible and applicable for learners of all ages.Together, we explore the science
#22 - "I Hate School!": What It Really Means and How Parents Can Help
Have you ever heard your child say “I hate school!", and felt unsure how to respond?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I discuss what that phrase really means. It’s a sentence that can trigger concern, frustration or even guilt. But behind those words is usually something deeper, whether it’s anxiety, disconnection or academic burnout. In this episode, I help you decode what your ch
#21 - Mental Health, Independence & Resilience in Young Adults with Dr Dominique Thompson
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Dr. Dominique Thompson, a GP, TEDx speaker and leading expert in young people’s mental health and wellbeing. With over 20 years of clinical experience, most recently as Director of Service at the University of Bristol Students’ Health Service, Dominique brings a wealth of insight into the challenges young people face today.She shares
#20 - How Multilingualism Boosts Academic Success: Insights from Professor Roberto Filippi
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Professor Roberto Filippi, a leading expert in psychology and education at University College London. As director of the Multilanguage & Cognition Lab and co-founder of Bilingualism Matters London, Professor Filippi shares his latest research on multilingualism, cognitive development and academic achievement.We explore his recent
How AI is Changing the Future of Learning: Insights from Dr. Philip Hua
Artificial Intelligence is revolutionising the way students learn, how teachers teach and how parents support their children’s education. But what does this really mean for the future of learning? Should we be embracing AI, or do we need to be mindful of how we integrate it into education?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I’m joined by Dr. Philip Hua, an AI and finance expert, auth
Is Your Child Struggling Academically? The Hidden Signs of Academic Burnout
Is your child exhausted, unmotivated or overwhelmed by schoolwork? It might not just be stress, it could be academic burnout.In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I dive into what academic burnout really is, how it differs from everyday school stress and the hidden signs parents often miss. You'll learn:✅ The key symptoms of burnout in students (it’s not just tiredness!)✅ Why older stu
Valentine’s Special: Boost Your Child’s Academic Performance with the Power of Love Languages
💡 Did you know that your child’s love language could be the key to unlocking their academic success? 💡Welcome back to Academic Coaching for Parents! In this special Valentine’s-themed episode, we’re diving into how love languages - the way your child gives and receives love can transform their motivation, confidence, and learning experience.Whether your child thrives on&nb
The Best Daily School Routine for Student Success: Study, Focus & Work-Life Balance
Are you struggling to help your child establish a productive daily school routine? Do homework battles, late-night cramming and endless distractions feel like a constant source of stress? In this solo episode, I break down the ideal school day routine, from morning to night, to help students maximise their learning, stay organised and maintain a healthy life balance.In this episode, I wi
Mock Exam Results: What They Mean & How to Help Your Child Improve Before Final Exams
Mock exam results can be a wake-up call, whether they confirm your child’s hard work or highlight areas that need urgent attention. But what do these results really mean? And more importantly, how can you support your child in making real progress before their final exams?In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I break down exactly how to interpret mock results and use them as a stepping
Boost Your Child’s Learning: The Science of Working Memory with Dr Rebecca Gordon
Welcome back to Academic Coaching for Parents! In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Rebecca Gordon, Associate Professor of Cognitive Psychology at University College London (UCL) and part of the University of London Centre for Educational Neuroscience. As Head of Research Impact and Engagement and Director of the Motor Executive Cognitive Interaction Research Group, Dr. Gordon is a leading expert in
The Science of Goal Setting: How to Help Your Child Stay Motivated and Achieve Academic Success
Welcome to Season 2 of Academic Coaching for Parents! In this episode, I am diving into one of the most powerful yet often misunderstood tools for student success—goal setting.You’ve probably heard that setting goals is important, but did you know that scientific research backs up its effectiveness? Today, I will explore:✅ Why goal setting works – Insights from neuroscience and psychology✅ The rol
Holiday Study Tips: How Parents Can Balance Christmas Fun and Academic Success
Welcome to Academic Coaching for Parents! In this festive episode, I explore how to support your child in balancing academic preparation with the joy and relaxation of the Christmas holidays. Whether they’re gearing up for mocks, exams or simply staying ahead for the next term, this episode will help you strike the perfect work-life balance.Discover actionable tips on:🎄 Creating a flexible re
How to Succeed in Medical Applications: Expert Tips with Dr. Nadia McLurcan
In this exciting episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I delve into the inspiring journey of Dr Nadia McLurcan, an F2 doctor whose unconventional path into medicine is as fascinating as it is motivating. From her beginnings with a degree in Biological Natural Sciences at Cambridge University to thriving in roles such as a management consultant, industry analyst and civil servant in Public Heal
The Science of Sleep: How Better Sleep Boosts Kids’ Learning and Mental Health with Dr Liz Halstead
In this insightful episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I dive into the critical role that sleep plays in children’s learning, mental health and overall well-being. My guest, Dr. Liz Halstead, a Chartered Psychologist and Associate Professor at UCL, brings her extensive expertise in cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia, child development and mental health to help parents understand the
How to Unlock Your Child's Learning Style: Auditory, Visual or Kinesthetic Tips for Success
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, Dr Anna York-Weaving dives into the fascinating world of learning styles and uncovers how understanding your child’s unique learning preferences can boost their academic success. Whether your child learns best through listening, seeing or practical work, Dr Anna York-Weaving breaks down practical strategies for each learning style—auditory, vi
Is 17 Too Young to Choose a Degree? Navigating Big Decisions at a Young Age with Dr. Anne-Fleur Brand
In today’s episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I dive into a topic that’s on the minds of many parents and students alike “Is 17 too young to choose a degree?” I’m joined by a special guest, Dr. Anne-Fleur Brand, a veterinarian currently pursuing her PhD in toxicology. Dr. Brand’s fascinating academic journey took her from veterinary medicine to education and now into scientific research.Tog
Top Secrets to Motivate Your Child to Study: Proven Strategies for Parents
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, host Dr. Anna York-Weaving dives into one of the most common challenges parents face: how to motivate their children to study. Whether your child seems uninterested, distracted, or overwhelmed by schoolwork, this episode provides practical strategies to help them build lasting academic motivation.I explore the difference between extrinsic and intri
Resilience and Study Skills: The Secrets to Success in Dentistry with Dr Geeta Bellis
In this inspiring episode of *Academic Coaching for Parents*, I welcome Dr. Geeta Bellis, a successful dentist and former head girl, to share her remarkable academic journey and insights into the world of dentistry. Join us as we explore Dr. Bellis's experiences navigating the challenges of a competitive academic landscape and dentistry university applications. She discusses her role as head
Read More, Scroll Less: Top Tips to Boost Your Child's Focus and Academic Success Through Reading
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I explore a growing challenge that many parents and educators face: the decline in reading among children in today’s fast-paced, digital world. With screens, social media, and TV shows dominating their attention, many kids are reading less than ever before. But why is this happening, and more importantly, how can we as parents and educators reverse
From A+ to Checkmate: How Maths and Chess Can Elevate Your Child’s Success with Richard York-Weaving
Welcome to another insightful episode of Academic Coaching for Parents! In today’s episode, we have a truly special guest, Richard York-Weaving, an outstanding mathematician with 100% record in his A-level maths exams as well as a Cambridge Maths Graduate. On top of that, he’s a FIDE Chess Master who has channeled his academic prowess and chess expertise into a successful career in the finance ind
Start Strong: Boost Your Child's Grades with These Game-Changing Habits
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I share a powerful formula for helping your child excel academically from the very start of the school year. The beginning of the academic year is crucial in setting a strong foundation for success, and with the right strategies, your child can build effective study habits, manage their time wisely and achieve their full potential.I will explore ke
Secrets to School Application Success: Top tips with Alex Simpson
In this episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I interview Alex Simpson, an experienced educational consultant and founder of Simpson Music and Education. With a rich academic background from the University of Cambridge and the Royal Academy of Music, Alex shares his unique journey of combining his passion for music and education into a fulfilling career.This episode covers essential topics, in
The Hidden Costs of Screen Time: How Social Media Impacts Academic Performance and Mental Health
In this first episode of Academic Coaching for Parents, I tackle a major concern for today’s parents—the impact of social media on students' academic performance and mental health. If you're a parent frustrated with your child spending endless hours on their phone, feeling powerless to change it, then this episode is for you.Join me as I explore the latest scientific evidence, share insights from
Trailer - Academic Coaching for Parents with Dr Anna York-Weaving
Welcome to Academic Coaching for Parents with Dr. Anna York-Weaving—your go-to resource for raising well-rounded, successful children in a world teeming with digital distractions. Hosted by Dr. Anna York-Weaving, a scientist, academic coach and educator with over a decade of educational experience, this podcast offers practical strategies and insights to help parents support their children’s acade
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