AN EDUCATION leader has pleaded for councillors to ensure that a vocational education centre does not become a "dumping ground for the disaffected".

York College principal Mike Galloway last night addressed councillors backing plans for the creation of a new £3 million 'skills academy' for 14-19-year-olds.

The centre could be based on the site of Fulford Cross Special School and would house the Pupil Referral Unit and peripatetic and outreach workers, as well as offering vocational training for youngsters.

The centre, run in partnership with York College, would deal particularly with young people excluded from school or who were struggling with academic work to the extent they could face exclusion in future.

"We need to be clear about vocational education and its benefits and not create some unintentional stereotypes for our young people," said Mr Galloway.

"I am not convinced vocational training is necessarily the best for all young people in the Pupil Referral Unit."

He said: "One of the concerns is that we don't be seen as a dumping ground, as an easy option."

But he broadly supported the plans agreed by councillors to put forward a bid for funding for the project.

Executive member for education Carol Runciman said: "In no way do I want to see vocational education as a dumping ground for the disaffected."

Councillors also backed the plans which would see the Fulford Cross site maintained for education rather than developed for housing.

"We would definitely intend to move the Pupil Referral Unit and other services there anyway, so the site would be kept in continuous use if these plans are agreed," said director of education and leisure Patrick Scott.

Coun Janet Hopton said: "I think we would back these plans as they would keep the site occupied, and used for education rather than housing."

"It is also good to hear that there will be thorough consultation," said Coun David Scott.

"I am happy to accept the proposals to bid for funding," said Coun Runciman.

"I think this is a really interesting and innovative project.

"The opportunity is there and we have got to bid for these things when they come along, I really don't want us to miss the boat on this if this would be possible for York."

Updated: 11:09 Wednesday, October 22, 2003