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.