Does anyone remember those pencil cases - I think they were made by Helix - that had a roll-top and a 'secret' compartment underneath. I got one from my Grandad for passing my 11+ exam. Mine was red with a cream roll-top. There was some sort of click mechanism that opened the drawer underneath which had slots in into which you could insert your pencils. If anyone has a picture of one, I'd love to see it. I have looked on the Internet for vintage pencil boxes but have yet to find a picture. I've been building up a Pinterest scrapbook and wanted to add a photo of the pencil box. I loved it!

I only remember the wooden pencil case, but what sticks in the memory was the day of the 11 Plus results. Our very strict teacher (Mr Garland) read out each result, and everyone who passed was allowed to go home early. I was one of the lucky ones, but afterwards I heard that once I'd gone he commented "There's one I never thought would pass". I was quite upset at that, but was pleased that I'd bettered him, as he was not a very nice man.