THE start of the new school year brings relief for many parents but for others, it opens up old fears as awkward homework questions put them on the spot.

Research shows there are seven million adults in England who cannot read and write at the level expected of 11-year-olds. There are also many more who, though competent in reading and writing, could improve their skills in order to help their children's education.

Now the Learning and Skills Council of Greater Manchester is funding free basic skills courses in literacy and numeracy for adults, as part of its Get On campaign.

One parent who has already taken advantage of the sessions is Paula Gears, of Bury, who attended family learning classes in numeracy and literacy in order to help her five-year-old daughter, Danica.

She said: "The courses gave me the confidence to approach the teachers because you do need to know what is going on in the classroom.

"I did all right at school, but I never used my skills within my work so they've all been hidden over the years. Now they have come out again."

Liz Davis, executive director of the Learning and Skills Council, said: "Helping children with their homework can pose problems for any parent, no matter what their level of education.

"I would encourage anyone who thinks they could do with brushing up their skills to call the Get On freephone information line on 0800 100 900 and find out about one of the hundreds of free adult basic skills courses near them."