One of the main settings in the novel is Billy's school and home life, and also the school education system. The education system is very strict and the teachers have power over the pupils. There isn't a really good relationship between the staff and the pupils.

The author Barry Hines views towards Mr Gryce the head teacher is that he is violent, powerful and aggressive towards the pupils `Fast asleep during the Lord's Prayer! I'll thrash you, you irreverent scoundrel!'. He has control over the pupils because they are scared of him disciplining them with the cane.

Mr Crossley is also very strict and powerful towards the pupils. Barry Hines views about Mr Crossley are that he is a bully towards Billy and the other pupils. `Blurting out and making a mess of my register' he blamed Billy for making a mess, because...