I assume, therefore that you attended Nottingham High School. I am also from Nottingham and sat an entrance examination for the High School. I did well enough to be granted a place but only if my parents paid fees. We decided I would be better off at my local grammar, which I preferred anyway, not least because it was co-ed, unlike the High. A few of my junior school contemporaries did go there though.
As for the topic, there were a few ‘mass’ canings at grammar school, notably one of about 10 boys on the last day at school before Christmas when some boys went to the pub at lunchtime. The headmaster did not believe in Christmas spirit!