Through-train schooling system more than just an elitist express
I wish to clarify some misunderstandings about through-train schools in the article headlined 'Through train under attack for being elitist' (Education Post, May 8). The article quoted Professor Bernard Luk Hung-kay as saying that 'poor students were likely to stay in schools at the lower end of academic performance under the through-train system' and that 'poor students will have less chance to move upward in the social ladder' as they are 'barred from entering the good secondary schools which become through-train schools'. These views do not depict through-train schools correctly.
A through-train secondary school, apart from taking in all Primary Six students of its linked primary school, is required to offer at least 15 per cent of its Form One places for allocation to Primary Six students of other primary schools. Students of any background would have a chance of being allocated to through-train schools in the public sector. If a student of a through-train primary school does not wish to go to the linked secondary school, he/she can opt out to participate in the same way as students of other primary schools.
A through-train school has the advantages of ensuring the continuity of the primary and secondary curriculums, strengthening the school's pastoral care of its students and alleviating adaptation problems. There are 13 pairs of public-sector through-train schools. They constitute only a very small percentage of the total number of schools but provide some more choices for parents.
Professor Luk's remark that 'there are relatively few good schools in new towns and old districts with a concentration of public housing estates' is unfair. Children in these areas stand no less opportunity of receiving quality education than those in other areas.
Lastly, Dr Dora Choi's remark that interviews are used for selection to fill Primary One discretionary places is inaccurate. Under the existing Primary One Admission mechanism, selection by interviews by government and aided schools is not allowed.
