Susan wants to be a secretary

She has all the necessary requirements

But since her mom left home, her dad's gone to pieces

And she has to stay and look after

Her brothers and sisters and all the housework.



Oh what a waste of education

Oh what a waste of education

Oh what a waste of education

Oh what a waste of education.



She was trying so hard in all her subjects

And her school report made it clear

That a little more concentration would make 

All the difference to her work.

But the subject she needed a little more help in

Was one that was not in the curriculum

The subject she needed a little more help in

Was one that was not on the time-table -



About the art of combining washing and ironing

And shopping and cooking and such . . . .

With homework essays, exam revision, punctuality

Prefect duties, choir practice, and

Playing for the school netball team.



Oh what a waste of education

Oh what a waste of education

Oh what a waste of education

Oh what a waste of education.



It's such a big responsibility

When you're only sixteen years old

And your friends are going out, buying new clothes

Going to discos, talking boyfriends,

Sending for college prospectuses.