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The standard class size for primary schools would be reduced from 37 or 32 to 35 or 30, starting from the 2008-09 school year, the Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen, announced today (September 9). Mr Suen also said the threshold for operating Primary One classes would be adjusted downwards from 23 to 21.
During the headcount for different levels in primary schools for the current school year to be conducted later this month, the Education Bureau (EDB) will use the criteria of 35 or 30 students per class for schools with surplus teachers arising from packing of classes.
"We hope that with these improvement measures, members of the education sector will appreciate the dedication and commitment of the SAR Government to improving the working conditions of our teachers," Mr Suen said.
Mr Suen made the announcement when officiating at the 'Salute to Teachers - Teachers' Day 2007 and Commendation Certificate Presentation Ceremony'. The event saw more than 1,000 teachers receive commendation certificates in recognition of their contributions in providing pastoral care for students and nurturing their talents.
"While a good curriculum and technology help students in their studies, it takes devoted and caring teachers to make all-rounded students and make them good citizens.
"The Government sees teachers as its partners and strives to enhance their social status and improve their working conditions. The EDB has given its full support to the Committee on Respect Our Teachers Campaign (CROTC) and its activities which promote respecting teachers and caring for students," Mr Suen said.
This year (2007) is the 10th anniversary of the Teachers' Day. Each year, the CROTC organises a celebration ceremony to commend teachers who are dedicated to teaching. On top of its existing 15 member organisations involving teachers and principals, the CROTC has incorporated parents' associations at the district level this year.
This year also sees the 12th Teachers Commendation Scheme under which each school (kindergartens, primary and secondary schools included) may nominate two devoted and outstanding teachers for commendation. Some 1,400 teachers are presented with commendation certificates this year.
Apart from the presentation of commendation certificates, today's celebration activities also featured a sharing session through which students and parents talked about how their teachers had provided assistance and encouragement to students to facilitate their personal development.
Also present at today's event were the Permanent Secretary for Education, Mr Raymond Wong; the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Teacher Education and Qualifications, Professor Cheng Kai-ming; the former Chairman of the Curriculum Development Council, Professor Wong Yuk-shan; and Chairman of the Committee on Respect Our Teachers Campaign, Mr Fung Chin-choi.
Ends/Sunday, September 9, 2007
Issued at HKT 17:26
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