EDUCATION chiefs hope new measures will help Kirklees children do better at school.

The projects will include providing learning mentors, out-of-school activities, study support and youth work apprenticeships.

The money for the plans is coming from the Government's Neighbourhood Renewal fund.

The moves were welcomed by Kirklees councillor Andrew Marchington, chairman of the Neighbourhood Renewal decision-making panel.

He said: "These projects are part of an effort to give as many young people as possible a good start in life.

"The barriers some young people face when learning can make school a daunting prospect.

"These projects aim to support young people and their parents, breaking down as many barriers as possible along the way."

Schools will be able to offer a wide range of after-school activities.

These will include such things as sports and arts projects, family learning courses and study support.

The approach has already been successful in parts of Kirklees by creating a more informal learning environment for youngsters and by encouraging parents to get more involved in their children's education.

Learning mentors will work one-to- one with pupils at a number of schools.

They will work directly with the children who need their support the most in the classroom.

A scheme has also been approved to help voluntary and community groups provide more activities for children and young people across the district.