ENG-1977 — Page 119

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EDUCATION

receivers. A new subject - science also was introduced for Form I and II pupils. The service is expected to be extended to Form III in the 1978-9 academic year. The other programmes provided for Form I and II pupils cover the same four basic subjects Chinese, English, mathematics and social studies as those put out to Primary III to VI pupils.

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ETV's total audience during 1977 was estimated at 150,000 secondary and 400,000 primary school pupils.

Music

Seminars, refresher courses and music workshops organised by the Music Section of the Education Department were attended by more than 700 primary and secondary school teachers during the year. A secondary schools teachers' choir and orchestra were formed to give music teachers experience in rehearsing and performing sub- stantial works from the choral repertoire.

The Hong Kong Youth Choir toured the United Kingdom as part of a Hong Kong music and dance team chosen to take part in the Queen's Silver Jubilee celebrations. Six young musicians accompanied by an officer from the Music Section attended the First Regional Asian Youth Music Camp held at Mount Makiling in the Philippines. In conjunction with the Hong Kong Philharmonic Society, a series of concerts and open rehearsals for students was inaugurated. More than 92 schools have regis- tered with the Music Section for the current season's performances.

To encourage and develop the growth of instrumental music among young people, a new instrumental music unit was established within the Education Department. A distinguished violinist and conductor from the United Kingdom was appointed as the department's instrumental music consultant.

The 29th Hong Kong Schools Music Festival attracted more than 38,000 competi- tors in 246 classes held at 10 different centres. Five concerts by the prize-winners were given before capacity audiences at the City Hall.

The annual practical examinations of the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music attracted 7,418 entries and 3,125 candidates sat the theory examinations. Some 173 entries were received for the Trinity College of Music examinations and 1,250 ballet students took part in the Royal Academy of Dancing examinations.

Physical Education and Recreation

The Physical Education Section of the Education Department conducts school visits, allocates public sports grounds to schools and the public, and organises a great variety of refresher courses for physical education teachers and recreation activities for school children throughout the year. As a result of advice given to schools and teachers on expanding the scope of physical education and school recreational activi- ties, swimming and gymnastics are beginning to be recognised as new major activities in schools. Facilities for such activities are increasing.

The section also organises outdoor education camps, an extensive learn-to-swim scheme, canoeing and sailing, the Duke of Edinburgh's Award scheme, activities for handicapped children and a wide variety of other functions. Together with the Hong Kong Schools Sports Association and the New Territories Schools Sports Association, the section conducts the School Dance Festival and organises competitions in