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The Education Bureau (EDB) today (July 14) urged parents and students to consider carefully whether it was necessary to patronise private tutorial schools and, if they do so, to exercise caution in choosing one.
"Students receive essential education at formal schools, where they have a balanced development in the domains of ethics, intellect, physical development, social skills and aesthetics. Private tutorial assistance to students is only an option," said an EDB spokesman.
When selecting private schools offering non-formal curriculum, including those which offer educational courses such as tutorial, commercial, language and computer courses, parents and students should note the following points:
* Choose a school which has been registered or provisionally registered with the Education Bureau and check the registration certificate displayed at the school;
* Study the course leaflet and fee information carefully;
* Pay course fees on a monthly basis and do not pay in a lump sum by any means, including credit cards;
* Retain formal receipts; and
* Select a school with a safe learning environment.
The EDB has produced a leaflet, "Notes on Choosing Private Schools Offering Non-formal Curriculum". It is distributed to parents through schools and is also available on the bureau's website (www.edb.gov.hk).
Ends/Monday, July 14, 2008
Issued at HKT 15:01
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