Why a “Fail” May Actually Be a Huge Success
When GCSE results are published, so much of the conversation centres on the word “pass.” A grade 4 or above is celebrated, while anything lower can feel like failure. But that isn’t always the truth. What looks like a “fail” on paper can actually be an extraordinary success when measured against starting points and predicted outcomes.
For example, a young person who is predicted to achieve grade 1 but receives grade 3 has not technically “passed,” but they have actually improved by two whole grades! That’s an achievement that reflects perseverance, determination, and resilience. For that young person, the progress is remarkable and deserves recognition.
Not Black and White
The exam system often reduces results to an outcome of success or failure. But this overlooks the individual journeys of students, who all begin from a different place and face unique challenges. For some, moving from grade 7 to grade 9 is a personal triumph. For others, progressing from a grade 1 to a grade 3 may be just as significant.
At Red Balloon, success isn’t determined by reaching a certain benchmark. It’s about making progress and overcoming obstacles along the way.
Valuing Progress
Exams are demanding, and even the act of sitting them requires courage and commitment. For young people who have faced disruptions to education, mental health challenges, or personal difficulties, every step forward is meaningful. Exceeding a predicted grade, regardless of where it sits on the scale, represents growth and achievement.
At Red Balloon, we value resilience, persistence, and the ability to keep moving forward. These are the qualities that will carry young people through education, work, and life.
Redefining Success
Instead of asking, “Did you pass?” we should be asking, “Did you make progress?” By celebrating progress above prediction, we shift the focus to growth. In doing so, we help young people recognise their achievements and understand that success is defined in many different ways.
