KIRKLEES will be a year in front of Government targets to get schools to have broadband connections by next year.

Government ministers have set a target for all schools to have a broadband connection to the national education network by September 2006.

But Kirklees Council says it will beat the target by 12 months.

Schools will connect to the National Grid for Learning and link to specialist teachers and learning materials of the highest quality from the UK and the rest of the world.

Youngsters will be able to enjoy video, films, music, video conferencing and high-quality graphics as well as using learning materials like the British Pathe News archive.

Schools will also be able link into the council's finance system.

Clr Geoff Alvy, council cabinet member for children's services, said: "Our young people deserve the very best we can provide because they are our future. We are making broadband happen a year ahead."