Closely monitoring dropout cases
I refer to the report headlined, '11 children taught at home by parents' (South China Morning Post, January 8) and wish to offer a clearer view on the Government's policy on universal basic education.
The existing policy requires all children aged between six and 15 to attend primary or secondary school.
The Education Department has not approved any of the cases of home schooling nor is it drafting any measures to accommodate such practices.
In fact, the 11 cases are dropout cases and are being closely monitored.
We are of the view that regular schooling provides children with balanced and diversified learning opportunities through interaction with teachers and peers and enhances all-round development.
We would like to assure members of the community of our mission to provide quality education for the all-round development of our children.
M. Y. CHENG
for Director of Education
