PEOPLE in east Cleveland are to be asked for their opinions about a change to the school calendar that could be introduced as early as next year.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council looks likely to adopt the six-term year at some point, but it is waiting for feedback from the public before deciding whether to go ahead with the scheme next year or wait for further consultation and introduce it at a later time.

The present three-term calendar was devised at the end of the 1800s to fit around Christian religious festivals and agricultural seasons, but it is seen as having little relevance to the needs of society at the start of the 21st Century.

A review by an independent commission has shown general support for the introduction of a six-term year, which would see six sessions of equal length. Holidays would vary from one week to five weeks.

It is also hoped the new style would also bring about an end to an increasing trend that sees parents take their children out of school for their annual holiday rather than go away during the more expensive month of August.

It also suggests that exams could take place in term five - which would fall in April and May, rather than later in the summer when it is hotter and at the height of the hayfever season.

The executive acknowledged that early consultation had shown support for the scheme and has decided to start consulting governors and headteachers for more detailed feedback.