With exam season fast approaching, we are spotlighting some of the #TeachersOfTikTok who are using the platform to share their exam tips and and study tricks with #JuniorCert and #LeavingCert students. TJ Hegarty, founder of Breakthrough Maths [@breakthroughmaths], brings complex mathematical concepts to life through quick, engaging videos that break down challenging topics into manageable pieces. Read more below!

Q: Why did you decide to start using TikTok to share study tips and Leaving Certificate tips?
A: To help support my business, Breakthrough Maths, I started posting on TikTok to get the word out there and reach more students.

@breakthroughmaths

How to get a H1 in Maths 🤔 Sign up to our mocks masterclass this Sunday and we will help you get top marks 💪🏻 (Link in bio)

♬ original sound - Breakthrough Maths (Grinds)

Q: Are there any specific teaching techniques or approaches you can use on TikTok that might not be possible in a traditional classroom?
A: On TikTok its all about the community and I when I go live there can be upwards of 10,000 students tuning in. Students love them and its great to see so many commenting with their answers and asking questions.

Q: What are your main tips for Leaving Certificate students ahead of the exams?
A: It’s all about being prepped, have your equipment ready to go:

  • Have a new battery in your calculator
  • Have new pencils, a rubber, and a ruler
  • Make sure your watch is working
  • Have your snacks prepped
  • Know who’s dropping you to and from the exams

Take away the stresses you can control and this reduces feelings of anxiety.

@breakthroughmaths

Should you use music for studying? 🎶

♬ original sound - Breakthrough Maths (Grinds)

Q: What is the one piece of Maths exam advice you want every student to know?
A: For Maths, focus on Algebra. It’s key to all topics!

Q: What has been the reaction from your students and fellow teachers since you started posting TikToks?
A: My students love it. I even get recognised on the streets of Cork now with people saying “oh, that’s the Maths guy!” It’s great craic.

Q: What is your favourite TikTok you have made to date and why?
A: About the benefits of Dark Chocolate for the exams. The students loved that one, it was very different.

Q: How do you address the different learning needs across your audience - from struggling students to high achievers?
A: I try to make Maths more accessible. Be fun, be engaging – that gets everyone answering the Maths questions and once you are trying, you are learning.


@breakthroughmaths Alright lads, here’s how you make the examiner give you higher grades 👇🏻 Ye need to treat the examiner like a child! 👶🏻 Show all yer work, make it clear as day, and provide step by step guides for them on how you got your answer ✍🏻 85% of marks are given before the final answer anyway! So make sure you hold their hand the whole way and guarantee yourself top marks ✅ It’s a foolproof hack for yer maths exams! #maths #study #leavingcert #juniorcert ♬ original sound - Breakthrough Maths (Grinds)

Q: What impact has your TikTok presence had on your professional identity as an educator?
A: Being on TikTok has transformed our business no end – we now have 2,600 students learning with us each week!

Q: Have you received any particularly meaningful feedback from students about how your content helped them?
A: SO many thank you messages, support and feedback. Last year in Kenya, I met one of our students on TikTok who recognised me while on holiday with his family. Small world!