THE cane was banned in Australian schools years ago, and few would argue this was a bad thing. But has the balance swung too far the other way?
Recovered memories are shared about being whipped across the buttocks until enough blood beaded to drip to the floor. Or being made to walk like a duck for an hour. Or dodging chalk, dusters, keys, the beige steel bin – anything within reach to throw.
One could be forgiven for mistaking this as a group therapy session for victims of bullies. No, it is just dinner for a group of 30 and 40-somethings, reminiscing about teachers. Primary, secondary, public, private – this is just how it was.