[johnep]

Probably completely different now, one difference is that they did assume we were literate and numerate. I always thought the extra year was for remedial work necessary because of the defects in 'modern' education.

I did no real work for the first term just to see where I was, passed every subject and from then on worked hard. major test was at end of year two (part 1) and you had to get this to go on to final (third) year. I fluffed pharmaceutics and was immediately in trouble as grant cut off. My father had to pay £50 (lot of money in those days). To help out, I took the Ph.C. at christmas, passed and was a pharmacist. Used to put up my cert during dispensing lessons. 18 months later I took B.Phm and got a 2:1 in Chemistry and Engineering.

Then of, course I was due for two years national service, but as it was all coming to an end I decided to get deferment until I was 26 by teaching chemistry and working as a locum at weekends and in holidays.

Never earnt a proper wage until I was 26 and therefore owe my parents a debt of gratitude for keeping me.

You have it much easier now.
johnep