YOUNG people deemed at risk of turning to crime or gang culture are being given a 'second chance' with a programme of events at a Walthamstow college.

Run at the O-Regen College, in Blackhorse Lane, the 'Goals' project offers personal development, skills building and conflict resolution sessions.

Natalie Batson, 16, of Trinity Close, Leytonstone, ran into problems with teachers and other pupils and left school without qualifications.

She said: “It's a second chance to get our qualifications so that we can get jobs.

“The teachers in school didn't like my piercings and I didn't get on with some people. Now I can settle down and get on with my work.”

Natalie is now hoping to go on to further study and plans to become either an accountant or a solicitor.

She said: “I like athletics as well, like running and the high jump, and I'm interested in fashion and beauty too.”

Usman Khan, 15, of Queen's Road, Walthamstow, also suffered problems at school and used to get into fights with other pupils.

He said: “This place teaches you to get along with people. I used to get into fights but I'm getting away from that now.

“I'm doing something a bit more practical – I want to be a plumber.”

The week-long event, run in partnership with the London Action Trust (LAT), Goals UK and O-Regen, also included 'Streetbeatz' – a session with local police aimed at improving communication.

Diane Prempeh, project manager for LAT, said: “It's young people, community members and the police working together to improve relationships.

“We're in our second year now and we've had young people gaining qualifications. One even went to China as part of a Streetbeatz programme with a police officer.”

Oliver Ashton, of Goals UK, added: “The kids start to relate to each other as human beings. They can talk about what's going on in their minds and start looking at solutions.”

The young people take away an Open College Network (OCN) certification, which can lead to recognised qualifications and further education.

Further projects are planned later this year, including 'Black Self Development' on the troubled Beaumont Estate in Leyton and Priory Court in Walthamstow.

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