A DECISION by a group of parents to return to the classroom brought them double honours yesterday.

It was a year ago that parents of pupils at Gilesgate Primary School accepted a challenge to improve their ITC skills.

Funded by the Focus on Learning Project and tutored by Judith Allen, the nine parents have studied hard all year to polish their ability on computers and so help their children with their ITC homework.

As well as attending lessons at the school, the parents also worked towards a Certificate in Adult Literacy.

Yesterday, headteacher Mark Turner revealed that all had passed their level one in the certificate with flying colours.

They were presented with their qualification by Mr Turner who said: "The achievement of these parents is excellent. It reflects their hard work and dedication and provides a strong incentive to help motivate pupils to learn.''

There was an added bonus for the parents when, last night, they were nominated for a second award, recognising their qualifications, at a ceremony at New College, Durham.