It is likely that someone who is original and intelligent does not do very well at school? Should such a learner be called a failure? If not, why not?

Yes, it is very much likely that a child who is intelligent and smart might not do very well at school.

No, such a learner should never be called a failure because every human being on this earth has one gifted skill or ability which is surprisingly different in every person. To judge on the basis of academic performance and call someone a failure is a very narrow analysis of the abilities of a student. It is very important to understand that every child has his/her own individual talents, interests and capabilities and academic performance is not the only parameter to categorize them as “success” or “failure.”

Therefore, in order to help a student flourish and grow, one needs to pay equal attention to various aspects of growth and development of a child in order to bring out their true

potential and excellence.