One of the great failings of our education system is that we tend to focus on those who are succeeding in exams, and there are plenty of them. But what we should also be looking at, and a lot more urgently, is those who fail.

The quote by Michael Morpurgo critiques the education system for its tendency to prioritize students who excel in exams. He points out that while it is natural to celebrate those who succeed, this approach overlooks the needs of students who are struggling or failing, who may require more attention, support, and resources. Morpurgo emphasizes that focusing only on high achievers creates an imbalanced and inequitable system.

Morpurgo, a renowned author and advocate for children’s education, often highlights the importance of inclusive and compassionate teaching. His perspective reflects a concern that exam-focused education can neglect individual learning differences, creativity, and personal growth, leaving many students behind despite their potential.

By stating that attention should be directed “a lot more urgently” toward those who fail, Morpurgo underscores the need for intervention, guidance, and tailored support. Addressing the challenges faced by struggling students can help prevent them from falling further behind and ensure that all children have the opportunity to succeed, not just the top performers.

Overall, the quote is a call to rethink educational priorities. Morpurgo advocates for an approach that balances recognition of achievement with support for those who need it most, creating a more equitable, effective, and humane education system that serves every student.