To Sir With Love (1967, U.K.)

A novice teacher faces a class of rowdy working-class punks in this classic film of the 60s.

Sidney Poitier gives one of his finest performances as Mark Thackeray.  He’s an out-of-work engineer who turns to teaching in London’s tough East End.  The graduating class is led by Denham (Christian Roberts), Pamela (Judy Geeson) and Barbara (Lulu, who also sings the hit title song).  They set out to destroy Thackeray as they did his predecessor, by breaking his spirit. But Thackeray is no stranger to hostility.  He meets the challenge by treating the students as young adults who will soon enter a work force where they must stand or fall on their own. When offered an engineering job, Thackeray must decide if he wants to stay.