CHILDREN in Weardale are to benefit from a scheme that will offer free training for parents and carers.

The Early Start programme will target young families in isolated areas, such as the dales, in an initiative which will also help promote stronger community ties.

The first 12-week course is free and will take place at Rookhope Primary School in January.

It hoped the course will help parents improve their communication, language, literacy and maths skills to enable them to assist their children with speech and language development in their early childhood.

It will also provide information on literacy and numeracy qualifications and offer those who would like to the chance to embark on further learning opportunities.

The programme has been co-ordinated by the Education and Skills Agency with funding from the Education and Skills Council.

It has been planned by Weardale Children's Centre Partnership, Rookhope Primary School and Education in the Community, which strives to bring new opportunities to families in Weardale.

Sean Ward, field officer at the children's centre, said "This is a fantastic opportunity that allows both parents and their children to actively work together to improve life opportunities for youngsters.

"We hope that this will lead to a stronger community here in the dale, as well as setting up an excellent model for family development that can act as a positive example for other communities to learn from."

Funding is also available for similar courses and plans are in the pipeline for one in Stanhope and one in Wolsingham, which would take place in the summer.

Places are now available and transport will be provided to and from Rookhope where needed.

There will be one three-and- a-half-hour session a week and free play and creche facilities will be provided to enable parents to take an active role in the activities.

Youngsters will also be able to take part in a teddy bear hunt where they will be able to keep their cuddly prize.

To enrol, parents and carers can call (01388) 517268.