ENG-1974 — Page 110

EDUCATION

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aim to pursue academic studies. There are two types of academic courses at secondary level-the middle school course for adults and the secondary school course (both English and Chinese) for young people leading to the Hong Kong Certificate of Education. There is also the teachers' course providing additional in-service training in art, music, handwork, woodwork, teaching of English in primary schools, teaching of modern mathematics in lower secondary schools, gymnastics, rebound tumbling, folk dance, oriental dance and modern educational dance. By far the most popular are the English courses at various levels. During the past year, more than 180 classes were provided for more than 4,000 students.

The Evening School of Higher Chinese Studies offers a three-year general arts course leading to a diploma issued by the Education Department. Many people from the teaching profession have found this course a great help to their work in the teaching of Chinese. There are 13 classes accommodated in two centres, one on each side of the harbour.

The adult education section also provides informal education through 14 adult education and recreation centres which are located in densely populated urban and rural areas. Activities offered in these centres incorporate educational and recreational components along the lines of community development. These activities range from music appreciation and sports to group study of art, photography and dramatics.

Apart from its regular activities, the adult education section has also designed various schemes which aim at serving the community. In conjunction with the Prisons Department, 17 classes giving instruction to inmates in general subjects with a moral and civic emphasis and also in subjects of a practical nature, have been organised at various prisons and addiction treatment centres. Classes are also held at the Aberdeen Rehabilitation Centre in co-operation with the Social Welfare Department.

Examinations

In 1974 there were four local examinations for schools, one conducted by the Education Department, one by the Board of the Hong Kong Certificate of Education, one by the Chinese University of Hong Kong Matriculation Board, and one by the Advanced Level Examination Board of the University of Hong Kong.

The secondary school entrance examination selects pupils for places in govern- ment and aided secondary schools, and for assisted places in private secondary schools. It is conducted by the Education Department and an examination committee is appointed to give advice on general policy. All primary schools are invited to take part and are encouraged to enter all their Primary Six pupils for the examination.

The Hong Kong Certificate of Education is primarily intended for children who have completed a five-year course of secondary education. There were formerly two examinations-the Hong Kong Certificate of Education (English) and the Hong Kong Certificate of Education (Chinese)—these were combined into one examination conducted by the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Board, which comprises mem- bers representing participating secondary schools, the University of Hong Kong, the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Education Department.