Teaching Grit in Schools: A Welcome Step - But Are We Missing the Point?

This week, the UK government announced that children in England will be taught “grit” as part of a broader strategy to address mental health challenges and improve school attendance. We welcome this renewed focus on building resilience and perseverance – essential qualities for helping young people thrive.

But we’ll be honest: at Raleigh this announcement has left us a little frustrated.

From what we can see so far, the proposed approach centres on group sessions and one-to-one mental health interventions. These are undoubtedly valuable for well-being, and we’re absolutely not taking away from their importance.

But we’re left wondering – is this what builds grit?

Let’s be clear: young people today are already demonstrating incredible resilience. They’re growing up in a digital world that moves fast and doesn’t always feel safe. They’ve faced a global pandemic, economic and environmental uncertainty, and increasing pressure from social media and societal expectations.

The issue isn’t that they lack grit – it’s that they’re carrying far more than previous generations ever had to, often without the right opportunities, support, or confidence to explore new challenges that help turn inner strength into action.

And too often, we – the adults in their lives – unintentionally can hold them back. In our efforts to keep them safe (a priority that should never change), we can sometimes create environments that shield them from the kinds of challenges that help build resilience.

That’s why it’s so important we intentionally create those opportunities – for challenge, growth, and real-life learning. At Raleigh International, that’s exactly what we do.

At Raleigh, we believe resilience isn’t built through conversation alone. It’s developed through action – by stepping outside your comfort zone, solving real problems, and working alongside others in unfamiliar settings.

You don’t learn perseverance by reading about it. You learn it when you feel challenged – but supported – by the people around you. You learn it outside the classroom or a lecture hall. You learn it on Raleigh when the rain won’t stop on day four of a trek and you have blisters on your feet.

These are the moments that shape a mindset and a future.

While group sessions and mental health support are important tools for stability and recovery, grit is forged in uncertainty, discomfort, and reflection. That’s where young people gain the confidence to bounce back and move forward.

We believe in the potential of young people and their strength. What they need isn’t a reminder to be resilient – it’s the opportunity to practise it in the real world.