A SHAKE-UP could spell the end of middle schools in Huddersfield.

Education chiefs believe children suffer because they move twice rather than once at the age of 11.

But Tories today lashed out at moves to axe the three-tier system, which continues through seven middle schools in Kirklees.

Clr Robert Light, leader of the council's Conservative group, said: "Under the changes we will see the creation of super primaries of 400 to 500 children based in the old middle schools.

"The Conservative group believes in diversity in education and that different systems should be allowed to flourish. We do not see any need to change the system of schools."

Kirklees has seven middle schools catering for the 9 and 10 to 13 age range, including Kirkburton and Scissett. The other five are in the Spen Valley.

A move to scrap them would bring Kirklees into line with most of the rest of the UK.

Clr Geoff Alvy, Liberal Democrat cabinet member for education, accused Tories of scaremongering.

He said: "Changing to a two-tier system is an option we are looking at, but it is no more than that.

"There are a lot of questions that need answering, such as the Government money we may need and what happens to the primary schools.

"We must keep an open mind while asking ourselves about the best structures that give children the best education."