Expansion of the extended schools scheme would be welcomed by schools and the communities they serve, says a study.

But although the findings of the government-funded study support the idea, the authors caution that extended schools are not always appropriate.

The schools, which provide services and activities to help meet the needs of pupils, their families and the wider community, were identified in the children's green paper as a key part of the government's strategy for integrating children's services.

The report's authors say: "There is evidence that involvement in extended activities canÉimpose burdens on heads and other teachers which distracts them from their 'core business' activities. This may be particularly the case where the school already experiences challenges."

In March, the government announced funding for three years to support the development of extended schools.

This week, children's minister Margaret Hodge put her weight behind the study by calling for more extended schools.

- Full report from www.dfes.gov.uk/research