I have spent many sessions; debating with my students that one of the most significant barriers to their progress is not always ability but mindset. In working with students who are academically behind, a recurring pattern often emerges, many are capable of improvement yet are held back by deeply ingrained mental blocks. These blocks often stem from repeated experiences of difficulty, self-doubt and sabotage that lead them to believe they are “not good” at learning.

A negative mindset can create a cycle that is almost impossible to break. Expecting failure hinders a student’s ability to fully engage, take risks, or persevere through challenges. Over time, I have noticed that this avoidance reinforces their struggles, widening the gap between their current performance and their potential.

Sometimes, I struggle with the principles of a growth mindset and how they can be abused. However, developing this mindset is not about offering empty praise or ignoring difficulties. Instead, it involves helping students reframe their thinking. Emphasising effort, progress, and strategies rather than merely getting answers correct can shift their focus from fear of failure to curiosity and resilience. Celebrating small improvements or acknowledging persistence can gradually rebuild a student’s confidence in their ability to learn.

Importantly, in my students who are behind I find they often require more than just academic support, they need consistent encouragement to rebuild their belief in themselves. Creating a safe environment that normalises mistakes and views learning as a process often has a significant impact. When students begin to believe that their abilities can improve, they are more willing to engage with challenging material and persist through setbacks.

For me, fostering a positive attitude toward learning is not an added extra. It is foundational. Without it, even the most carefully planned lesson plan can fall short. With it, students are far more likely to unlock their potential and experience meaningful, lasting progress.

Angelina Castelli