TEENAGERS are being given the chance to get a fresh start in life thanks to an Oxford-based project.

The innovative work-based educational programme known as The InspirEd Project is giving teenagers a chance away from the classroom.

It offers an alternative educational programme for young people who are struggling in mainstream schools.

Jaime Bowler, 15, joined the programme, based at the Unipart site, in Garsington Road, Cowley, after a teacher at Cheney School recommended it.

She said: "It's completely different to school. It is more like a work environment. We get treated like adults."

Jaime, of Thames View Road, Rose Hill, does her work placement at a nursery school on the estate.

She said: "The programme has made a difference to my life - I feel more independent, more confident and it makes me feel more grown up."

And Jaime is not the only teenager from the city to benefit.

A year ago, Laurence Whittaker had been expelled from school and had lost interest in education.

The 16-year-old, from Balfour Road, Blackbird Leys, attends the programme four days a week.

He said: "It's better than school. We have got our own computers and it's not as crowded."

The programme, which is now in its second year, runs for the academic year and takes pupils recommended by staff at secondary schools.

InspirEd project manager Sharon Bult said the scheme, which this year has seven teenagers signed up, aimed to provide alternative education for disengaged and vulnerable 15 and 16-year-olds.

She said: "They are identified as young people who would not progress in the mainstream, but have the ability to achieve. Mainstream schools don't suit every young person."

Some of the pupils take GCSEs in English and maths, while others learn basic skills such as literacy and numeracy. All do work experience with placements, including stints at colleges and hospitals.

The scheme, which is the only one of its kind in Oxford, was launched last year.

For more details, call InspirEd on 01865 715074.