You could argue that the test has becoming harder over the years to reflect the new dangers on the road..... my nan had a full licence, including motorbikes and HGVs and she diodn't even do a test!

That said, the test is tough for a reason and to be honest I'm not convinced about the "we have to fail so many per day" comment...... they can't fail you if you don't do anything wrong. Are you sure that fail was not for hesitating at a clear junction?

I passed my driving test first time, but my bike licence took 2 attempts.... basically I was nearvous as hell and screwed everthing up.... left indicator on, wrong lane position, hesitating at junction etc etc. the only way it could have be worse is if I'd spanked the bike. Second test was total opposite - clear sailing and not a single fault...... its like any exam; as long as you know the subject matter you'll be fine if you don't loose your nerve!