As a church, we’re excited to share a new opportunity we believe God has opened up for us.

Some of you may have already heard about this at the family members’ meeting back in November.

After prayer, listening and careful conversation, we’re planning to step into alternative provision, offering tailored education and support for young people aged 11 to 16 who are finding mainstream school difficult.

This work will focus on learning and wellbeing, and on working closely with families, schools and the wider community.

To help us do this well, we’re partnering with Acorn Alternative Provision. We’ve been in conversation with Acorn for over two years and have built a strong relationship. They bring experience, share our values, and have a heart for the gospel, which has given us real peace as we move forward.

Our plan is to launch this provision in the building in September 2026. While there is still work to do, preparations are already underway. This will include some practical changes to the building, focused on safety and care, so the space works well for children during the week while still serving the life of the church.

We will also need to appoint teaching and support staff to help deliver this work, and we’ll be advertising those roles.

There is still much to pray about: for the right people, strong relationships with schools, and God’s wisdom and guidance.

But above all, we ask you to pray for lives to be changed. For children and families to find support and hope, and for the love of Jesus to make a real difference.

We’ll continue to share updates as plans develop.

You can watch the video to hear more about the heart behind this vision and what comes next.