PARENTS are being asked to vote on plans to alter the admissions policy in Sunderland's schools.

Changes in population have left the traditional catchment area system outdated, and Sunderland City Council wants to introduce reforms.

The city's education director, Dr John Williams, said Sunderland could no longer work on the catchment area system which was set up more than 20 years ago.

A consultation programme has been launched and parents will be asked for their views on four proposals.

They are updating the existing catchment area system, introducing clusters of schools where a set of primaries feed to only one secondary, combining clusters and catchment areas, or introducing free choice.

Roadshows will be held throughout Wearside to enable people to find out more about the proposals, and it is hoped that the new system will come into force in September, 2003.

The first roadshow will take place today, from 9am to 12.30pm, at The Bridges shopping centre, Sunderland.

Telephone 0800 0859681 for information about the proposals, or other roadshow venues.