PARENTS are being asked their views on changes to schools in the borough.

Harrow Council is proposing to lower the age at which children enter primary and secondary school. Currently pupils move from infant school in year three aged eight, but the proposals would mean they leave one year earlier.

Children would then transfer from primary to secondary school aged 11, instead of the current age of 12.

A Harrow Council spokesman said: "No schools would be closed as a result of this change.

"The reorganisation of schools would, if approved, take place in September 2010 and provide opportunities for school sites to be used for extended school activities."

Harrow's community schools have a structure of first, middle, combined first and middle and high schools, which will be condensed to infant, junior, primary and secondary schools. This will mean the merging of some first and middle schools.

Councillor Anjana Patel (Conservative), portfolio holder for schools and children's development, said: "These proposals are evidence of the council's commitment to continuing a high level of education in the borough."

The consultation on the proposed changes started on Monday and runs until until December 5.

Public meetings are being held at the Civic Centre on November 3 and 17 at 6.30pm. For information visit www.harrow.gov.uk/schoolreorganisation