End of Term by the Sea

Wednesday. End of term, or as near to one as a school that never closes ever gets. The corridor smells of sunscreen, and there is a Christmas tree in the foyer that Hollis insists on calling “the evergreen”.

A great many parents have asked at the desk whether a lesson at the academy can be given as a present. It can. There are vouchers, bought on the main Escape This website, and they can be spent at either of our two academies. One grandmother bought four.

When the time comes, the lucky apprentice chooses Manly or Melbourne on the booking page, picks a session and is enrolled on the spot. Those who prefer a human voice can ring instead. I always prefer a human voice, but then I would; I am one.

A year ago this week we were unpacking. Now we are wrapping. I am told this is called progress.