Caning for being late was harsh and I am not trying to justify it but accounting why it took place. Wrongly, as we know now, was the thought that Germany had spies everywhere. They were looking for signs that the bombing was having an effect on life and disruption widespread. It was feared that if spies saw children arriving late for school it would be taken as the bombing was disrupting life and making an impact. This could not be tolerated. Children had to arrive on time and no excuses could be accepted. This is not an excuse or me trying to justify it, but telling it as it was at the time.
Thoughts of an Abusive but Aparant Wartime Headmaster17
