>> could you come in and answer a question on Merlin engines that I was asked on my final exams. I had much difficulty answering, but managed it in the end.<<
Let's get this straight: you can remember an exam question from over 65 years ago???
In the 1980's I went through Jet Provost training and I can't remember a darned thing about the JP except the downwind checks. The RAF had gone over to what they pleased to call the 'Systems Approach to Flying Training' or 'SAFT'. This seemed to be designed by accountants who enjoyed costing everything you did.
First you were given a booklet which would say:
'At the end of this booklet you will be able to state the components of the hydraulic system.'
Second, the intructor went through said components.
Third you got an exam which asked you to list the same components.
It was a jolly good way of 'proving' (on paper) that you knew about hydraulics, However, we called it 'learn and dump' because the next day you went on to soemthing else without having to digest what you had memorised for the exam.
By contrast, you guys received an education in aircraft systems that has stood the test of time.
Fascinating thread. There are lessons to be learned from the past for sure.