TNAG-1073-FCO40-1323-Policy-of-the-Government-of-Hong-Kong-on-education-including-1981 — Page 484

31.

C23

The report notes that sixth-form studies are closely

related to the admission requirements of the main tertiary institutions

and that curricula are largely determined by the examination syllabuses

of the Higher Level, Advanced Level and CCE examinations: hence, sixth-

form courses are still seen by many people as "matriculation" courses,

preparing students for university admission even though it is no longer

true that university admission is the only purpose for which sixth-form

studies are undertaken. However, now that the HKEA has become responsible

for the Higher and Advanced Level (as well as the HKCE) examinations, the

opportunity has been provided to implement co-ordinated changes in sixth-

form examinations and to ensure that these follow the curriculum rather

"Once the curriculum has been decided upon by an

appropriate body, the Hong Kong Examinations Authority will be a powerful

than determine it

A

factor in its reinforcement."

32.

The Committee on Sixth-Form Education considers the main

purpose of sixth-form studies to be to produce balanced, well-informed

individuals, to prepare students for tertiary education, to develop in all

students a capability to communicate through both languages (Chinese and

English), and to prepare students for an adult life. To fulfil these

purposes the curriculum should be broadened to ensure that sixth-form

studies can be examined or assessed without the need for tertiary institutions

to impose further examinations and should seek in general to minimise the

pressure of examinations on students: this requires a restructuring of the

present curriculum framework. Thus, the report states that "the Committee

envisages a two-year integrated Sixth Form course with a terminal qualification

which would be acceptable for both further study and employment.

provide an outlet at the end of the first year for students who wish to

take a course at a tertiary institution, either in Hong Kong or overseas,

which accepts entries at this level. It should also provide a balanced

It should