TWELVE students from Teesdale School, in Barnard Castle, have picked up qualifications which will allow them to coach young children.

The group attended a one-day course held by PE teacher and Football Association tutor Carl Lander.

The year ten and 11 pupils took part in sessions on child protection, health and safety, warming up, skills coaching, as well as rules.

They then had to pass a two-hour practical test before they could claim the Junior Football Organiser's Award.

All 12 students passed and can now coach six to 11-year-olds.

Mr Lander said "We have a number of talented students at the school and it is great to be able to offer our students non-traditional qualifications that compliment their learning, are valued by the students and can be used to secure employment and further training when they leave school."