COUNCIL chiefs have been keeping under wraps the names of Medway schools whose future is being considered as part of an education review.

Today (Friday) the Medway Messenger will reveal where officers are focusing their sights.

The only information confirmed to date is that the list includes six primary schools and one secondary.

Medway Council education chief Cllr Les Wicks (Con), says factors including pupil numbers, academic performance and the impact of future housing will be considered. The final list is not expected to be decided until the New Year.

Cllr Wicks, portfolio holder for children's services, argues naming schools now will hit staff morale and cause unnecessary distress to pupils and parents. But his opponents claim the uncertainty is already having that effect.

Labour's education spokesman, Cllr Bill Esterson, said: "Why can't they be open and start consultation?"