Young people, some of whom turned their backs on school, have found a new goal in life - helping other youngsters.

The group of volunteers aged 12 to 19 stepped in to help the Allerton-based Childsplay Centre with work experience - some struggling with their own schoolwork - and have not missed a day at the playgroup since.

They have gone on to take childcare qualifications.

They even impressed the New Opportunites Funding board when it heard how they conducted their meetings and wanted to know more.

Beverley Mullaney, play services co-ordinator at Childsplay, said the group is going from strength to strength.

"We got funding from the New Opportunities Fund and have taken the children camping and to the seaside," she said.

"But the panel were so impressed when they heard about the youngsters who are involved in the project who hold their own meetings, taking minutes and deciding how to spend the money, that they asked them to come down to London and make a presentation.

"We also got a brilliant Ofsted report, our first one ever, where our service was classed as outstanding and unique."

Shareen Roweth, 19, Gavin Makin, 12, and James Windle, 14, made the trip to London.

"We have also had a big success with some of the girls who came to us on work experience and who were not interested in school, who have turned over a new leaf here," added Mrs Mullaney.

Shareen said: "I have become a volunteer helping with the children. It is a great feeling to help.

"We have been camping and to the seaside.

"Some of them have never left Bradford so it is a big thing for them."

Grace Oliver, 17, studying for an NVQ, also volunteers.

"You get a lot more confidence," she said.

"Then you realise that you are a role model for the younger ones.

"I was never at school for long - I didn't like it - but I really enjoy it here and the NVQ course.

"It's been a brilliant experience coming here, we really love it."

The group is also running a joint initiative with Bradford City Farm to create a sensory garden at the centre.

"The children love the herbal area and we are hoping to create a classroom outside for the youngsters at Childsplay," said Mrs Mullaney.

"The whole aim of the projects here is to help disadvantaged children through play and it seems to be working."