In at the deep end

Have you ever been thrown in at the deep end?

Well, it could be literally, like into the deep end at a swimming pool or more commonly and metaphorically, into a new situation with no preparation, particularly, a new job.

Here's the opening episode of a high quality drama series from way back in 1971.

It combines a swimming pool, called public baths at the time, and a very green, new guy on his first day at work.

Take a look too at urban England in 1971 and listen to Cat Stevens singing the title song. There's a lot to enjoy in:

The Deep End!

In at the deep end

(Dedicated to Dan)

If you are thrown in at the deep end, you are dropped straight into a situation without any warning or preparation.

This can particularly happen when starting a new job.

The origin comes from the swimming pool which has a deep end and a shallow end.

People used to say that the best way to teach someone to swim, is to throw them in at the deep end. (Not something I would advise)

Here's someone who is definitely in at the deep end!