Factor 30, you just said "some" students, in past posts you said "most" students, its the "most" I disagreed with.
I also think it is the level at which the children are studying maths too, both mine did A level maths and did not have any problems at all, so again its the "most" I did not agree with. When they choose to study maths at a higher level then this is when they apply problem solving.
Prof Brian Cox only got a B at A level maths., but I think he's moved on a bit since!
Give the young a chance!