[batou]

We had a network of beebs at school - literally 100+ of them in several rooms.

I remember those CP/M machines: RM 380Z. Took a non-functional one of them home from my school (weighed about 25kg and I walked home carrying it, well dragging it on a Head bag - took forever and ruined the bag) and sifted it for 74xx parts and static RAM. Built my first computer from scratch from the remains.

My school had all the kit: BBC econet network, an early archimedes deployment, CNC mills and lathes, properly kitted out electronics and science labs, the lot. Unfortunately no teachers that knew what to do with it all. I was privileged to have it all as my own personal playground that no one else touched or had any interest in, the only payment being to make them look good on parents evening.

I genuinely would't have been the person I am without all this. Thanks UK government!

Joining the onion on the belt club as well now.