Staff at The Change Centre, based within Thorns Collegiate Academy in Brierley Hill, are facing potential job losses as concerns rise over a significant lack of support from Dudley Council. The centre provides specialist interventions aimed at young people at risk of school exclusion, helping them shift attitudes and re-engage positively with their education.
According to the school’s website, The Change Centre delivers a structured six-week programme focused on raising self-awareness and equipping students with skills to make meaningful, lasting changes. This service has been a critical part of the borough’s alternative provision, addressing the needs of pupils at risk of repeat suspension or permanent exclusion.
However, the GMB Union has criticized the council for failing to meet referral commitments, despite high demand for these services. Rebecca Mitchell, a GMB organiser, condemned the council’s apparent complacency: “Alternative provision is absolutely essential for our local education system. It’s shocking to see council leaders appear so relaxed about the precarious situation at the Change Centre.
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“Significant investments were made based on promises of pupil referrals. Now, with referrals dwindling, dedicated staff face losing their jobs. We urge Dudley Council to act swiftly to protect workers, pupils, and families before it’s too late.”
In response, Cllr Wayne Little, cabinet member for children and young people, highlighted the council’s pathway strategy, which has contributed to a 30% reduction in suspensions and exclusions over the past year. He emphasized the importance of the Pathway Learning Centre at Thorns—a joint initiative with Shireland Academy Trust—designed to support students through early intervention and reintegration efforts.
Cllr Little explained that while the council provides capital funding for the centre, day-to-day management and staffing decisions rest with the Trust. Pupils are referred both by schools and the local authority, but the council cannot mandate school participation. Despite this, the number of students attending the centre is growing.
The council has recently increased the frequency of placement panels to boost responsiveness and referrals. Cllr Little affirmed their commitment to ensuring the centre’s continued success and avoiding unnecessary staff losses. The centre remains a vital resource in supporting vulnerable students and fostering positive educational outcomes throughout the borough.