A CHARITY is to work with north Durham secondary schools to help troubled youngsters get an education before they are expelled.

Consett YMCA is offering a new programme of learning outside the classroom for unruly young people at risk of exclusion.

Groups of ten will attend the centre on Parliament Street during school hours and take part in a range of activities.

Chief executive Billy Robson said: "This is like a preventative measure schools can take before pupils are excluded.

"It involves and alternative education programme outside of the classroom and allows the children to remain under the umbrella of the school."

The Pathway 3 Plus project will start in September and is aimed at 14 to 16-year-olds studying for GCSEs.

Pupils will study maths and English to improve their literacy and numeracy with a view to sitting exams.

They will also learn skills such as first aid, CV writing, interview techniques and do courses to help them understand the dangers of drugs, alcohol, smoking and the importance of understanding issues surrounding sexual health.

Course leaders will take the children on outdoor activities such as kayaking and canoeing hikes.

Neil Curran, who manages the scheme with Helen Daglish, said: "The main diet of secondary education does not suit everyone so we offer a more relaxed environment in different surrounds.’’ Jonny McBride, 16, from Consett, was referred to the YMCA by Moorside Community School because he had trouble settling into mainstream in education and he has taken part in a similar scheme.

He said: "It is a lot better than school because you learn a lot more.

"The teachers here talk to you differently. They are dead canny and it is spot on."