A former council school has been given a new lease of life as a private school providing an alternative education for youngsters from across north Powys and Shropshire.Bettws Lifehouse, opened yesterday in the old school at Bettws Cedewain, near Newtown, is a new venture in the region that will give opportunities to young people who, for a number of reasons, may not be thriving in mainstream education.

Practical subjects, including building, farming and cookery, will be among the skills training available.

Kay Jones, a trained counsellor and one of four members of staff, said: “We are a training provider for children who for whatever reason are not able to get on at mainstream school.

“Our approach is very different to anything else that is available in the area. Our aim is to provide these children with the life skills they need to move on in their lives and be able to approach future employers with a portfolio of relevant experiences and skills.

“Our mission statement is: ‘Members of The Lifehouse will feel safe and supported to become confident, happy and enthusiastic members of society. They will achieve realistic goals and leave with skills transferable to both work and home’.

“To this end we have a fully equipped workshop where they will be able to learn building and design skills. We also have a farm where we can develop agricultural skills and environmental awareness.

“Our ethos is one of sustainability and partnership with of our local community. We will be purchasing local produce which the children will learn to budget for, prepare and then enjoy.”

The school has opened with just four pupils, referred by both Powys and Shropshire County Councils, and it will be able to take up to a maximum of 10.

Mrs Jones added that they would be working alongside and in conjunction with complementary education and schools to enhance the opportunities available to children in the area.

The children will attend during normal school hours.

“We will be catering for young people between the ages of 11 and 16 who, for whatever reason, are ‘square pegs in round holes’ in mainstream education,” Mrs Jones said.

By Deborah Knox