MOTHER Zoe Stewart is feeling good about returning to school.

The 32-year-old celebrated after becoming the 1,000th person to complete a national test through Sure Start Children's Centres, in Derwentside, and Derwentside Training.

Ms Stewart, who has a two-year-old daughter, achieved a level two certificate in adult literacy.

She said: "I have really enjoyed the experience of learning again.

"After such a long time out of education, I thought it would be really hard to get back into it but, with support, it has been really easy. With the right support I believe anyone is capable of achieving."

Ms Stewart has also gained a teaching assistant level two qualification at Stanley Sure Start Children's Centre and is studying for a level three qualification at New College Durham.

Training officer Brian Nicholson, of Derwentside Training, said: "This outstanding milestone of delivering 1,000 tests shows the increasing popularity of learning at your own pace in a familiar learning environment."