11.41
The school assessments are scaled by numerical and verbal (Chinese) aptitude tests, and there have been complaints that the absence of a formal examination has reduced pressure and so lowered the standard of pupils entering secondary school. There have also been comments in the opposite direction that competition to do well in the schools internal tests is now making the new procedure as competitive as the former Secondary Schools Entrance Examination. Perhaps an even more widely held view is that the absence of a formal English test has removed the main incentive to learn English in primary school.
11..42
As promised when the system was introduced, a working party has been established to review the allocation procedure and these complaints are being investigated fully by the working party.
Supporting staff and equipment for primary schools
11.43
The provision of supporting staff for primary schools is considered to be generally adequate to provide an effective service. However with possible existing duties arising from the recommendations of this Green Paper the pro- vision of clerical support in particular should be kept under review.
11.44
It is felt that more up-to-date teaching methods could well increase the demand for duplicating facilities, and it is therefore proposed that as existing hand operated duplicators wear out they should be replaced by electric machines in offices servicing schools with 24 classes or more.
Peripatetic services for disabled children attending ordinary child care centres and primary schools
11.45
As noted in paragraph 7.24 more child care centres and primary schools will be made accessible to disabled children. In addition some specialist peripatetic services will be provided through the Special Education Services Centres of the Education Department. These services will include
advising teachers and child care workers, and counselling parents and children. They will also, where necessary, provide additional teaching aids, assist in referrals for specialist assessment and treatment, and where appropriate make available speech and physiotherapy services.
School Social Work
11.46
The White Paper "Social Welfare into the 1980's" proposed the establishment of a school social work service. In the primary sector this included the appointment of Student Guidance Officers (SGOs). These officers are recruited from serving primary school teachers who have a close knowledge of children's difficulties, and can be trained to give guidance and counselling to pupils with problems. The SGOS are backed up by trained social workers and psychologists.
11.47
Because SGOS serve more than one school and for coordination purposes, it is recommended that in each primary school the Head or a Senior Teacher should be in overall charge of remedial and resource teaching and should also be the contact with the SGO responsible for that school.
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