I commuted to school, on my own, from the age of seven. Mum took me the first day, after which I was on my own. The 1926 era 4SUB broke down on the third day, and they stopped the Kent Coast train comprising brand new 4CEPs. I discovered these had external handles, so on arrival at St Mary Cray I opened the window, opened the door, closed the window, stepped out and closed the door behind me. Simples.