A MOTHER who went back to school to get back to work has found herself a permanent job.

Deborah Bradwell spent two years helping at Cotsford Infant School, in Horden, on a voluntary basis and impressed staff so much that they wanted to take her on as a resources assistant.

However, the 38-year-old, from Peterlee, needed extra training to make the change and signed up with Easington Action Team for Jobs for help.

Now, after more than three years without work, Ms Bradwell is back in employment.

Action team advisor Enid Dalton said: "Because Deborah had not worked for over three years, I knew we would be able to access funding through New Deal and other sources, which meant that she could work at the school and undergo training at the same time."

Ms Bradwell said: "I love working with the children and have wanted to do this type of work since I left school.

"I was over the moon when I found out that Enid had secured funding to allow me to take the job opportunity at the school."

Carol Rowe, of Cotsford Infant School, said: "We are delighted that Deborah will be a full-time member of our team."