Failed student to make a fresh start in rugby (4-3)

I believe the answer is:

drop-out

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'failed student' is the definition.
'drop-out' can be an answer for 'student' (I have seen 'Unsuccessful student' mean 'drop-out' so perhaps 'student' could also mean 'drop-out'). I'm unsure of the 'failed' bit.

I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for drop-out that I've seen before include "start at Rugby" , "Unsuccessful student" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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