ENG-1968 — Page 124

EDUCATION

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by the Board. Entries for the theory examinations totalled 1,708 and 42 candidates entered for the Trinity College of Music Examina- tions. Children's examinations of the Royal Academy of Dancing attracted 463 entries.

The Art work of Hong Kong children reaches a high standard and was constantly requested by overseas institutions for exchange purposes. It was on display in the exhibition entitled 'World School Art' in Luxemburg during Whitsuntide, and in the Inter- national Exhibition of Children's Paintings, which was held in Mexico during the 19th Olympiad on the theme, 'A World of Friendship'.

A sculpture competition, the first of its kind for local school children, was held as part of the summer recreation activities. Lectures on various aspects of art and design, with emphasis on their importance in modern industrial life were delivered at secondary schools and colleges of education. The picture loan library run by the Art Section continued its monthly circulation of framed pictures to selected schools.

With the advice and assistance of the Centre for Educational Television Overseas, London, an Education Television Unit was created in February 1968 as a new section of the Education Depart- ment headed by an Assistant Director of Education. Though not yet in operation, the planning is at an advanced stage and a produc- tion team of twelve subject specialists has been recruited. Other staff (administrative and technical) have been, or are being recruited. In addition to sending these specialists abroad for basic television training, an extensive survey of schools is being conducted with a view to determining television teaching syllabuses.

PRE-PRIMARY EDUCATION

Kindergartens, providing pre-school education for the under- sixes, continue to increase in number and there is a strong demand for this type of education from all sections of the community. These institutions are not maintained or run by Government but they are registered with the Education Department and advised by the Inspectorate. Private kindergartens rose in number from 518 in the previous year to 628 in September 1968 and enrolment increased from 69,069 to 92,952. Government plays a significant part in meeting