“This just explains that you’re all expected to wash and iron your own uniforms as part of your Domestic Science homework…” She paused as a huge sigh swept the room. “…now I don’t want any of you using an iron without adult supervision, so your parent or guardian needs to sign your letter and you must return it.”

Michael’s mother gladly signed the form as Michael claimed it wasn’t proper homework.

“You’d be surprised how many men leave home not knowing how to cook or clean, wash or iron…” She explained. “…and your uncle Tony nearly burnt his flat down the first time he tried to cook something.” She grinned.

In the coming weeks, Domestic Science did get better, if only marginally so. Michael much preferred ‘proper’ science like physics and chemistry.