Remembering the days of Common Entrance

When I sat the Common Entrance Examination (now PEP) in 1968, there were no horns, bells, or mini carnivals for those who passed. Maybe a tub of your favourite Buckingham ice cream if you were on good behaviour. And yes, a few congratulatory telegrams from out-of-town family members who would have either heard or seen the results in The Gleaner. The telegrams were delivered by the town’s postman, ringing his bicycle bell at the gate. The Gleaner sold out early on exam-results day.