In many Indian households, the conversation around education still revolves around marks. Report cards, ranks, and percentages dominate discussions, often overshadowing something far more important—the effort a child puts in. But in today’s world, where success is measured not only by grades but also by creativity, resilience, and adaptability, it is time to look beyond marks and recognise the true drivers of learning.
At Vidyanchal High School (VHS), the belief is simple yet transformative: achievement is valuable, but effort is priceless. Effort reflects discipline, perseverance, and a willingness to learn—qualities that stay with children long after they’ve left the classroom.
Why Effort Matters More Than Marks
1. Marks Don’t Always Tell the Whole Story
A student scoring 95% in maths may have solved problems with ease, while another scoring 70% may have worked tirelessly to improve from 40%. Which one demonstrated more growth? True learning is reflected in progress and persistence, not just in numbers.
2. Building a Growth Mindset
Psychologist Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset shows that children praised for their effort are more likely to embrace challenges and bounce back from setbacks. Those praised only for outcomes often fear failure and avoid risks.
When parents and educators celebrate effort, children learn to value the process of learning as much as the result.
3. Preparing for Real-Life Success
In life, results are rarely instant. Whether it’s mastering a sport, pursuing higher studies, or excelling in a career, consistent effort is the differentiator. Recognising effort early helps children develop resilience, patience, and grit—skills that matter far more than marks on a sheet.
The Indian Education Shift: More Than Numbers
India’s NEP 2020 (National Education Policy) emphasises holistic development, critical thinking, and practical learning. It recognises that education must go beyond rote memorisation and numbers. Schools are being encouraged to move towards competency-based assessments that capture not just “what students know” but “how they apply and grow.”
At VHS, this philosophy has been in practice long before NEP 2020 formalised it. From classrooms to sports fields, the school recognises not just the child who stands first, but the one who shows determination to improve.
How Vidyanchal Recognises Effort
1. Classroom Practices
Teachers at VHS highlight progress as much as performance. For instance:
- A student who actively participates in discussions is encouraged, even if their answers aren’t always perfect.
- Improvement in handwriting, organisation, or classwork effort is applauded alongside high scores.
This ensures children don’t see grades as the only goal but as part of a larger learning journey.
2. Sports as a Teacher of Effort
On the football or basketball court, not every child scores the winning goal. But at VHS, the child who shows up consistently for practice, supports the team, and plays with determination is equally celebrated. Sports teach that effort, teamwork, and perseverance are victories in themselves.
3. Art, Creativity, and Expression
In arts, effort is often the truest measure of growth. A student experimenting with a new painting style or learning to play an instrument demonstrates persistence and courage. VHS gives students platforms like exhibitions, performances, and cultural events to showcase progress, not just polished perfection.
4. Parent-Teacher Partnerships
Through regular interactions, VHS encourages parents to appreciate children’s daily efforts—completing homework on time, preparing for projects, or practising consistently—rather than waiting only for the final report card. This effort-focused communication loop builds a healthier environment at home.
What Research Says
- According to an OECD report (2021), students who put in consistent effort, regardless of achievement levels, are 50% more likely to succeed long-term in both academic and career pursuits.
- A study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS, 2022) in India found that children who receive recognition for effort show lower anxiety levels and higher self-esteem compared to peers who are praised solely for results.
- Sports Science data shows that athletes who focus on effort-based goals (like improving speed or stamina) are 40% more motivated than those who focus only on winning.
These findings reinforce what VHS has long believed: effort builds resilience, and resilience builds success.
Why Parents Should Recognise Effort at Home
For Indian parents, shifting focus away from marks can be challenging. After all, grades often open doors to colleges and careers. But balance is key. Here are simple ways parents can nurture an effort-based approach:
- Praise progress, not perfection: Instead of saying, “Why only 80%?” try “You worked hard, and your marks improved from last time. Well done.”
- Celebrate small wins: Completing a project on time, improving a daily habit, or showing responsibility at home deserves acknowledgement.
- Avoid comparisons: Recognising effort means valuing the child’s individual journey, not measuring them against peers.
When parents model appreciation for effort, children grow into self-motivated learners.
Beyond School: Lifelong Lessons
Effort-based recognition does more than help children in school. It sets them up for life:
- In careers, consistent effort builds expertise and reputation.
- In relationships, effort builds trust and commitment.
- In personal growth, effort fuels resilience and adaptability.
By teaching children to value effort over immediate results, schools and parents prepare them to face challenges with confidence and optimism.
VHS: Where Effort Shapes Education
At Vidyanchal High School, marks matter—but effort matters more. Whether in academics, sports, or the arts, the school ensures that every child feels valued for their dedication and growth.
- Students are encouraged to take risks, experiment, and learn from failure.
- Achievements are celebrated, but so are journeys.
- Teachers and parents work as partners to keep effort at the heart of education.
This holistic, inclusive approach ensures that children don’t just chase marks—they build character, confidence, and curiosity.
Final Thoughts
In a world that often rewards outcomes, it takes courage to celebrate effort. Yet, it is effort that drives improvement, innovation, and success.
Marks may define a moment, but effort defines a lifetime. At Vidyanchal High School, recognising effort ensures students don’t just achieve—they evolve into resilient, balanced, and future-ready individuals.
When schools and parents unite in celebrating effort, children learn the most important lesson of all: that success lies not only in reaching the destination but in the journey itself.
