To help Secondary Five graduates prepare themselves for the release of the Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination results, the Government is publishing two careers-guidance handbooks.

The Education & Manpower Bureau, the Labour Department and the Hong Kong Association of Careers Masters & Guidance Masters jointly published the handbooks. "Careers Guidance Handbook for Secondary 5 Graduates 2004-2005" and "Handbook for Secondary 5 Students: In Pursuit of Job & Continuing Learning Opportunities" provide comprehensive information on further studies, vocational training and career paths for Secondary Five graduates.

"The Careers Guidance Handbook for Secondary 5 Graduates 2004-2005" outlines the Secondary Six admission procedure for 2004, which will start from August 11, and the Secondary Six joint admission scheme.

Secondary schools in Tai Po, North, Sai Kung, Shatin, Tuen Mun, Yuen Long, Southern, Tsuen Wan, Kwai Chung and Tsing Yi Districts will organise Joint Admission Centres to admit students from other schools to their S6 classes.

Study paths outlined in handbook

The handbook also provides information on the study path for S5 graduates, including details of S6 courses being offered by secondary schools, S5 courses for repeaters, professional and vocational training courses, sub-degree courses, Project Yi Jin and study abroad.

Also included are guidance articles contributed by Hong Kong Association of Careers Masters & Guidance Masters members and a contact list of education and advisory organisations.

"Handbook for Secondary 5 Students: In Pursuit of Job and Continuing Learning Opportunities" focuses on the transition from school to work. It provides tips on choosing a career and the job search, information on the job market, the Labour Department's free employment services, the Youth Pre-employment Training Programme, the Youth Work Experience & Training Scheme, the Youth Self-employment Support Scheme and other continuing learning opportunities.

Books available free from schools and Gov't offices

Students can obtain the two handbooks for free from their own schools, the Education & Manpower's Regional Education Offices, the Labour Department's Careers Information Centres and Job Centres and the Home Affairs Department's Public Enquiry Service Centres from tomorrow.

The electronic versions of the handbooks will also be made available at the Education & Manpower Bureau website,  www.emb.gov.hk, and the Labour Department website, www.labour.gov.hk/careers.