SEVERAL schools across the area will close when teachers hold a one-day strike.

The National Union of Teachers has called a day's strike over pay on Thursday.

Stephen Prewett, director for children's services at Dorset County Council, said: "We are encouraging schools to stay open.

"However, the final decision as to whether a school remains open, closed or partially closed lies with the head teacher and the chair of governors.

"All schools have been asked to give parents, school transport and pupils as much notice as possible."

As far as Dorset County Council is aware at this stage, the following schools intend to close: Sandford Middle School, Wareham Middle School, the Priory Primary School in Christchurch and Emmanuel Middle School in Verwood.

Sturminster Newton High School and the Purbeck School will be partially closed.

In Bournemouth, Kingsleigh Primary, King's Park Primary School, Queen's Park Junior School and the Epiphany CE Primary will close.

Bethany Junior School, Oakmead College of Technology, Pokesdown Primary, Linwood, Bicknell, Elmrise Primary, Heathlands Primary, Kings High, St Luke's CE Primary and Winton Primary School will be partially closed.

In Poole, Ashdown Technology College, Longspee School, Oakdale South Road Middle School, Poole High School, St Edward's School, and Longfleet Combined School will be partially closed.

Baden Powell and St Peter's Middle School, Branksome Heath Middle School, Canford Heath Middle School, Carter Community Sports College, St Mary's Combined School, Sylvan First School, Talbot Combined School, Turlin Moor Community Middle School and St Joseph's Combined School will be closed Hampshire schools have been on holiday and are reopening today so the council does not have a list of affected schools yet.