A new parenting course has seen its first graduates receive their certificates this week.

A total of 25 parents who joined a pilot scheme in Leeds attended an awards ceremony at Leeds Civic Hall on Monday, after a 17-week course. Leeds City Council executive board member for children and families, Cllr Richard Brett, said: ‘It is impossible to overestimate the importance of good parenting.

These parents have made a commitment to give their children the very best start by completing this challenging programme.' The weekly group sessions with trained workers was designed to help parents and carers of children aged eight to 13.