Youngsters dig in to spruce up county

More than a dozen green fingered youngsters who took part in alternative education programme have celebrated their graduation from the scheme.

Teenagers from Cannock and Lichfield helped to keep the county green as part of a project funded by Staffordshire County Council. The 13-strong group was referred to the Forest of Mercia Education Project after finding it hard to fit into the traditional school environment. They planted trees, pruned hedges and tried their hand at carpentry.

They were based at Image Business Park, Hednesford, where they could grow fruit and vegetables and work towards an NVQ Level One in Land Based Operations and the Award Scheme Development Accreditation Network. Many of the group hope to further their education at Rodbaston and Stafford college.

Schemes that benefited from their work include Cannock Park, Severns Road, Chasetown and Watling Street, Cannock.

Rebecca Banks, community forest manager, said: "It is wonderful to see how the youngsters develop during the course of the project.

"They not only have the chance to try an alternative type of education but they pick up life skills that will help them in the future, for instance gaining a pride in themselves and the area they live in."

The Forest of Mercia Education Project is aimed at 14 -16-year-olds excluded from formal schooling or at risk of being excluded.

Councillor John Wakefield, county council cabinet member for economic prosperity and sustainable communities, applauded the work of the youngsters in turning their lives around and benefiting the community. "This type of project really gives people who are struggling to find a place in traditional education a good start in life," he said.

For information ocall Rebecca Banks on 01543 370737.