James Robson, a 13-year-old, prepares to leave his family for the first time to become a pupil at Harrow. James arrives on his first day at Druries House, one of the 11 boarding houses at the school. Also moving in is new assistant House Master Keith Metcalf, on his first teaching post since leaving college.
Follows the new boys as they settle in on the first day of a new school year, and learn some of the codes, customs and rules, and also geography of the school. Also, trying out for the choir and the first rugby match.
Follows the daily routine of boys at Harrow school and they talk about what it is like to board and what can be learned from it. Also follows the school Matron on her daily rounds.
Looks at how the Harrow Rifle Corps is an important feature at the school and follows a group of boys as they go off on a weekend of manouevres. It also follows some of the smaller number of boys who opt for community service rather than join the Corps.
Follows work for the school play by the boys of The Park, as well as rehearsals for the "Glees and Twelves" inter-house singing contest. Also follows the inter-house cross country running finals and Luca Gakitch, a Yugoslavian refugee who attends Harrow on the prized Beckwith Scholarship.
Looks at use of punishments to handle misbehaviour and slacking.
Looks at the gruelling Long Ducker run - a twenty mile run to central London and back that takes place annually to raise money for charity and which is only done by senior boys who have undergone training. Also looks at Alex Eadon, who has just won a Cambridge music scholarship, and the looming mock A' Levels. Also at young Oscar Duke who persuaded other boys to come in with him in buying shares to set up a Tuck Shop in Newlands House, with profits benefiting both the investors and the House. A dozen girls also come to dinner with sixth formers.
Follows preparations and the performance of Churchill's Songs at the Albert Hall, an annual event in homage to old boy Winston Churchill.