In Italy, at primary schools, we used to starts at 8.am till 12, no playgrounds...we went home with homework to do for the next day. Had lunch at home.When at college, started at 9 till 12, with no playing or breaks between lessons. Walked home for lunch, then walked back at 2pm, till 4pm. No play grounds and no meals. Had plenty of homework for the next day....We only had one day holiday at Easter and one day at Christmas. Took the exams every year to pass on to the next year. If failed, we just repeated the year....My "Diploma" ? I passed all the 14 subjects 9/10 average. Got a very good job as an accountant at the Main Royal Mail, with all the benefits and a good salary...
Got bored. Left and got on with studying for a Teacher's "Diploma" at the home of private tutors, as the war was on. Did 4 years in 2 years...and passed....Then I met Micky and got married....My father was always saying : Females do not need studying...they always end up married....He was right. But I had a good life using my learning....gmx ps. We had sports on Saturdays....and I was champion for high, and long jump and putting the shot....