A CHILDCARE course exclusively for men is proving successful in Durham.

Bishop Auckland College has teamed up with SureStart Ferryhill and Chilton and the regional Children's charity Children North East, to run classes that can lead to a Cache qualification.

The course could also lead to a career in childcare, but organisers say it offers social opportunities as well.

A college spokesman said: "Dads, grandads and male carers can, like any parent, find it a challenge looking after their children, and opportunities to mix with other dads and their children are not as readily available to them as they are to mums.

"This course brings them together with other men who share the same experiences."

Heather Harkin, Children North East Dads Support Worker for Fathers Plus SureStart said: "Every dad, grandad and male carer who joined the course learnt something and enjoyed themselves in the process. We are hoping to build on the successes we have had so far."

One Ferryhill man who has completed the foundation course said: "I've learnt to be a better dad and discovered new ways of helping my child develop by doing a childcare course. All dads and men who look after children should give this course a try."