Giving feedback to a struggling student

Feedback stations test whether you can be honest and constructive while protecting a learner’s morale. The examiner wants a structured, balanced approach that leaves the student with a plan and their confidence intact.

How to structure it

• Start by inviting the student’s own reflection on how it went.
• Use a structured model — what went well, then specific areas to improve.
• Give concrete examples rather than vague impressions.
• Explore any underlying difficulties sensitively.
• Agree an action plan and signpost support.

Common pitfalls

• Only criticising, or only praising, rather than balancing both.
• Being vague instead of specific.
• Crushing morale or ignoring obvious distress.

Examiners reward learner-led reflection, balanced specific feedback, an agreed plan, and preserved morale.