In conclusion, it is found that definitions of success and failure in the schooling system vary enormously over time and across different contexts. In New Zealand, the adoption of the NCEA has provided the opportunity to improve learning outcomes in the senior school. The 2009 PISA results confirm that New Zealand has one of the best schooling systems in the world, and provides certainty that over 85% of students in school at age 16 have the skills to live and work effectively in our society.