MAJOR changes to the school year in Hampshire could be implemented within two years after education chiefs gave the go-ahead for consultations on the possibility of a six-term year.

Questionnaires are being sent to around half a million homes to seek the views of those who would be affected, as part of a huge consultation programme over the national proposals.

The plan is part of the council's attempt to make an informed decision on the way forward for Hampshire schools.

Six-term year proposals have come from an independent commission set up by the Local Government Association.

They have indicated a strong preference for national co-ordination of school term dates and holidays, which are currently set by individual local education authorities and differ between areas of the country.

The consultations are expected to be completed between June and October in time for the council to make a decision in December for implementation in September 2004 at the earliest.

Cllr Don Allen, executive member for education, said: "Before we make any decision on the way forward for Hampshire schools we want to ensure that everyone affected is well informed, that they can express a view and that we have clear evidence on which to base our decision.

"Any moves to reorganise the school year will have implications across Hampshire communities and I want to ensure we hear all the views," explained Mr Allen.