Some changes are needed to school terms which were fashioned in Victorian times and have not altered much since.

Now the idea is being put forward to have six terms a year, instead of three, to help children, teachers and parents.

At present the autumn term is too long and the summer term is too short, especially when Easter falls late as it did this year.

By spreading terms and holidays about, it would be possible to give greater regularity and continuity to education.

In most areas there have already, in effect, been six terms ever since a decision was taken in the Sixties to lengthen half-term holidays from a couple of days to a week.

It should be possible to come up with a scheme that is not too radical but would suit more people than at present.