A range of ‘child-friendly’ education courses have been launched in a bid to get more single parents into the classroom to learn new skills such as food hygiene and interview techniques.

The ‘Future Steps’ collaboration by Buckinghamshire County Council, Jobcentre Plus and careers group Connexions will run in High Wycombe and Chesham over the coming months.

Courses have been created for single parents claiming income support and who have a child under the age of five years.

The weekly sessions will also offer free childcare and travel. The childcare element is provided at a children’s centre, where parents can learn in a separate room to where their children are being cared for.

Martin Phillips, BCC cabinet member for community engagement and public health, said he hopes the new scheme will boost parents’ confidence and help their job prospects.

The next course begins on Monday April 18 at Waterside Children’s Centre in Chesham from 10am until 3pm.

It will continue every Monday at the same time for a further eight weeks. Another course begins on Wednesday April 20 at Hampden Way Children’s Centre, High Wycombe, and continues every Wednesday for a further eight weeks.

The sessions are for lone parents aged 25 years or over.

To apply for a place on the courses, or for more advice, speak to Jobcentre Plus or ring Jo at Connexions on 07921 491690