STUDENTS on a life changing course marked their passing out with a special parade and ceremony.

The Project-U course at Darlington College at Catterick helps students who find it difficult to adapt to conventional schooling.

For many it has transformed their lives, with many transferring to the main college to continue studies and others accepted into the Armed Forces.

Darlington College 14-19 Skills Centre manager Tracey Laycock said: “Project-U has worked so well for students and the staff have been amazing. Many of the students have overcome difficulties an adult would have struggled to come to terms with yet they’ve attended every day.”

Scott McCullough, 18, of Catterick Village said the course had been a revelation and he was now planning to join the Royal Logistics Corps.

He added: “I came from a tough background and didn’t think I would be still here. I never thought I would get anywhere but have proved that anyone can do it.”

Nathan McCormack, 15, from Catterick, improved his poor school attendance to 100 per cent.

“I have loved all of it. You are treated more like an adult and now I am aiming to join the Royal Navy to serve on a minesweeper.”

Capt Francis O’Connor, of the Infantry Training Battalion, presented students with awards, ranging from most improved attitude to most improved academically .