AFTER Hampshire's decision to press ahead with a six-term school year the education authorities in Wiltshire are considering the idea.

A questionnaire sent to schools in the autumn has revealed some support for the change - and some opposition.

The survey revealed that 62 per cent of headteachers, governors and other staff supported the change with 20 per cent opposed.

The opinion of parents was more evenly divided with 51 per cent in favour and 38 per cent against - although not all parent were asked their opinion. Replies from union representatives showed strong support for retaining the three-term structure.

Another proposal to have fixed training days for teachers won the support of 71 per cent of parents but was strongly opposed by headteachers and governors.

Chief education officer Bob Wolfson said: "Contact with a number of our neighbouring authorities has revealed that many of our local LEAs are still in the process of carrying out consultation on this and their deadlines for consultation responses vary from January to early April.

"Hampshire County Council has invited representatives of their neighbouring authorities to a meeting to pursue a co-ordinated approach on term dates for 2004/05.

"Representation from Wiltshire will be at this meeting."

Mr Wolfson say the council should consider a further report when additional information is available from neighbouring authorities.