EDUCATION chiefs are urging people to take the chance to have their say on plans to introduce a six-term year at all Kent schools.

The county council has embarked on a major consultation exercise over the move and this week begun to distribute more than 300,000 forms outlining the changes via its 600-plus schools.

Parents, teachers, governors, pupils and others who could be affected are all being encouraged to air their views. However, Kent teaching unions have already set out their opposition to the plan. They say it is unnecessary and a distraction from other priorities.

In a joint statement, the four main unions – the NASUWT, NUT, ATL and PAT – said there was no evidence that the changes would bring any benefits.

“All four unions believe there are far more important issues confronting schools that need to be addressed by politicians other than tinkering with school term dates and holidays,” the statement said.

KCC cabinet member for education Cllr Paul Carter (Con) promised the authority would look “long and hard” at the feedback. He said: We want to get as many views as possible on the proposed changes. We have had the present three-term system for so long that we believe it is right to carry out a wide consultation, giving everyone a chance to express their views.”

Under the proposals, the school year would be divided into six terms, each about six to seven weeks long. There would be a two-week break in October and a two-week break in April not fixed to the Easter Bank Holiday.

Where Easter fell outside the holiday period, there would be an additional long weekend break. At five weeks, summer holidays would be a week shorter.

Kent education director Graham Badman said there could be benefits although the changes were not great. These included better planning and a reduction in teacher and pupil fatigue during very long terms.

The public consultation period runs until July 31. Anyone who does not receive a form and would like one should contact Alex Williams at KCC on 01622 694179.