THERE is no such thing as a bad idea. So it is welcome that one of the most distinguished educationalists in Scotland has prompted debate by raising the question of whether longer days and shorter holidays would help close the hated attainment gap in schools and give deprived pupils a leg up.

While Keir Bloomer, who helped write the Curriculum for Excellence, is not fully endorsing such American-style schemes, he is right when he says that only radical action will narrow the gulf between rich and poor. Few believe the status quo is serving children from socially deprived backgrounds as it should.

Bloomer says that the government will not close the gap unless disadvantaged children get "additional high quality opportunities” and "extra provision". We agree. However, denying our poorest children the same summer breaks as those from wealthier backgrounds, and asking them to do longer hours in class, could look like punishment and might provoke resentment.

While the Sunday Herald welcomes all blue sky thinking, we would like to see moves which feel a little more positive and friendly. Ministers should ensure the "something extra" Bloomer talks about comes in the form of additional spending on schools in deprived areas, whether that takes the form of access to learning materials or free breakfast clubs, or more teachers and computers.

Education Secretary John Swinney knows that after nearly ten years of SNP government he must take bold action to narrow the attainment gap. Perhaps, if he needs ideas he should sit down with Mr Bloomer and brainstorm a little.