EDUCATION
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school programmes are produced for Forms 1 to 3 in the same four subjects and in science.
Since mid-1979, colour television receivers and video-cassette recorders have gradually replaced black and white receivers in government and aided primary schools. During the year, 510 colour receivers and 15 video-cassette recorders were supplied to primary schools. Secondary schools already have such equipment.
Hong Kong Examinations Authority
The Hong Kong Examinations Authority, an independent statutory body, began adminis- tering the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination in 1978, the Hong Kong Higher Level Examination in 1979, and the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination in 1980. In 1982, a total of 150 954 candidates entered for the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination; 18 558 entered for the Hong Kong Higher Level Examination; and 14 659 entered for the Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination.
The authority also assumes responsibility for conducting a large number of overseas examinations on behalf of various examining bodies in Britain and elsewhere. These examinations include the General Certificate of Education, the Test of English as a Foreign Language, the London Chamber of Commerce and Industry examinations, and many others which enable students to acquire academic and professional qualifications.
British Council
The British Council's English Language Teaching Programme was maintained for more than 38 000 students in classes ranging from beginners to university-level English literature. There were special courses for business and commercial English, for public examinations in English and for special needs in both the public and the private sector. The pro- gramme again included refresher courses for English language teachers in primary and secondary schools commissioned by the Education Department. Teachers whose native language is English continued to work for professional qualifications on Royal Society of Arts courses.
The library grew in size and scope, and borrowing figures continued to rise. The English Language Teaching Section of the library was developed to provide a key resource for use by all teachers of English in Hong Kong. Periodical holdings were also increased. The library acts as a focal point for enquiries about Britain and British education.
More than 30 short-term visits and bursaries to Britain were arranged and assisted within the educational exchange programme and 11 British Council scholars carried out postgraduate work at institutions in Britain. Some 30 specialists and consultants were brought to Hong Kong from Britain at the request of local institutions.
On the cultural side, the council continued its close association with the government and the Urban Council with the loan of a Henry Moore sculpture 'Woman' for the City Hall Memorial Garden, and joint sponsorship of performances by the Young Vic, Frank Barrie and the B.B.C. Symphony Orchestra. In fine arts, one of the most prestigious exhibitions of British watercolours to leave Britain was on view at the Hong Kong Museum of Art. The Chung Ying Theatre Company, set up by the British Council in 1979, became independent in April with a government subsidy.
Hong Kong Students in Britain
The Students Division of the Hong Kong Government Office in London is responsible for the welfare of Hong Kong students, including nurses in training, while in Britain.