EA Fortwilliam Youth Centre and Cedar Lodge School announce launch of collaborative project

The centre will also open four evenings a week to offer youth provision to the local community.

Additional support for pupils from Cedar Lodge School will ensure that they can be integrated into mainstream youth provision, based on the assessed needs of each pupil, starting with one afternoon per week.  Based on the learning and the success of the programme, bespoke delivery will develop as the partnership goes from strength to strength.

Fortwilliam Youth Centre has undergone extensive refurbishment and development, costing £262, 571, to ensure the building is fully accessible to pupils of Cedar Lodge School, while also meeting the needs of children and young people from the local community using the youth centre in the evenings.  The purpose-built building has created safe spaces which are designed to be inclusive and welcoming.  This includes a creative space, named “Makers”,  enabling them to create items from raw materials using various tools and equipment.  The focus will also be on developing their problem solving skills. Group work spaces have received a high-tech upgrade with interactive touch screens installed, supporting the engagement and participation of all children and young people.  The kitchen and social areas have been refreshed and fully equipped to allow young people to develop their cooking skills, whilst promoting their independence.

Richard Pengelly, Education Authority (EA) Chief Executive, said:

"This collaboration between EA Fortwilliam Youth Centre and Cedar Lodge School reflects our commitment to providing high-quality support and accessible facilities for children and young people. I am delighted to see this project come to fruition and look forward to the positive impact it will have.”

Chris Murphy, Principal of Cedar Lodge School, said:

"We are delighted to collaborate with Fortwilliam Youth Centre in this innovative partnership. This provision offers our pupils unique opportunities to access tailored educational pathways alongside the youth service in a supportive setting. It’s a significant step forward in enhancing their educational and personal experiences and we look forward to further collaboration."

Mark McBride, Education Authority (EA) Senior Youth Worker, said:

"Our partnership with Cedar Lodge School represents a new chapter in our efforts to engage and support children and young people in their personal development journey. Our aim is for this multi-purpose facility to create a nurturing environment that will benefit all of our children and young people.”