One obvious point is that schools nowadays will place more emphasis on learning mathematics and science in year 8. This obviously because it is more imperative to know maths/science because unlike in 1895, we live in an era with a stronger technological focus. However I am still impressed at the more theoretical approach to the topics examined in that particular exam. It's necessary to know how to calculate area without just a calculator. Most university exams in pure maths do not allow a calculator, because they care only about the usage of the underlying theory. By teaching theory as opposed to more pragmatic applied science (number crunching) you will always be able to refer back to the theory to be able to apply it to a scenario so that you can then derive a solution. That is more important, and that is what University's will place an emphasis on.
