The year is 1936, and Daphne is excited at securing a place at Barham Womens' Teaching College where she duly meets the principal, Professor Lavinia Arkenstone, and a group of intelligent, spirited young women including Gladys - the one she falls in love with. She soon settles down to college life, and it isn't long before she feels the sting of the cane on her bare bottom, for Barham College has a policy of enforcing discipline. The college also has its traditions and secrets, including a secret sorority, the members carefully hand-picked by the professor. Daphne is chosen, but before she can be accepted into the sisterhood, she must demonstrate her willingness to embrace the sorority's values - a chastisement from each of the sisters. Her initiation is both painful and memorable...