Just before Schools in 1958 I got Glandular Fever and was sent to the Isolation Hospital. By special dispensation from the Vice Chancellor, I was allowed to sit my Exams there. The Invigilator collected the Exam papers and sat behind a glass partition in her gown and hood and cap. I sat on my bed in full subfusc, with gown, and struggled with the papers. I was allowed to lie down every now and then and a Nurse brought me coffee and cake.
I did get a 2, not the expected First. At the Oral, one of the Examiners asked me if I enjoyed the role of Dame Douce, a prostitute, in the Jeu de La Feuillée, which Mrs Sutherland our Tutor had produced. I think I got the role because I had long hair down to my waist!
I wonder what happens now if a Student is ill?
Recollections from Mimi Howes (nee Khedouri, 1955)