Charlie Birkett

Teacher Mum

Kids EN ↓ 6 episodes

My son is taking his GCSEs. Five minutes ago, he was playing with Lego; now, he’s in the eye of the exam storm. As a teacher with over 20 years of experience, I thought I was ready for this. I wasn't. Welcome to Teacher Mum , an honest, and practical guide to navigating the "pivotal years" of your child’s education. Being an educator gives me a unique lens, but being a mum gives me a completely different reality. In this series, I pull back the curtain on the triumphs, the struggles, and the constant dilemmas of balancing my professional expertise with the visceral, biological anxiety of being...

Author

Charlie Birkett

Episodes

What type of student is my child? Six types and how to help each 24.06.2026 12:26

In this episode, we explore six key types of students and how you can support each of them with a roadmap for success. We break down the most common problems students face, from vocabulary to essay structure and provide practical questions to help them reach their potential. To check what type of learner your child is, why not take my free quiz? It takes less than five minutes and should be very h...

Mock Week. How to support without micromanaging 23.06.2026 8:40

Addressing the stress of mock exams. This episode examines the true purpose of mock exams, why they are a vital discipline, and how parents can provide effective support without falling into the trap of micromanagement. For help and resources, visit www.literaturetutor.co.uk

From nagging to facilitating — building independent study habits 17.06.2026 7:31

Explore the challenge of cultivating independent study habits at home. Charlie shares her shift from teacher-led control to being a facilitator, helping her son find his own rhythm while navigating the balance of being both a mum and an educator. For help and resources, visit www.literaturetutor.co.uk

Push or back off? The motivation dilemma 15.06.2026 7:16

A look at the dilemma of student motivation. Is it better to push, goad, and nag, or to focus on facilitation? This episode questions the modern "reward culture" and seeks the balance between helping a child succeed and letting them take ownership.

Letting them choose — surviving the GCSE options decision 15.06.2026 6:52

Exploring the monumental transition into Year 10. This episode tackles the struggle between wanting to steer a child's academic future and the importance of allowing them to make their own choices, while navigating the unique anxiety of being a parent during this period.

From Teacher to "Teacher Mum" When it's your own child 12.06.2026 8:18

As a teacher with over 20 years’ experience working with reluctant grumpy teenagers – well not all of them; some of them are motivated and charming human beings – I am now faced with a situation that I thought I was well equipped for. A mum to a GCSE student. I recognise that I have miraculously managed to produce a well-mannered, academically high-achieving, and likeable son, who performs well in...