Directions has operated the program which provides educational opportunities for teenagers who do not fit into the mainstream school system.

However the half a million-dollar a year contract was put out to tender by the Federal Government and it has been awarded to the Wheatbelt Area Consultative Committee (WACC) for three years.

This body no longer exists and has been replaced by a Regional Development Australia (RDA) committee.

Its chairman is Beverley farmer David White who also chaired WACC.

He said the RDA was simply a name change and the body would continue to receive operational funding to allow it to employ basic staff.

“We can also get funding through third-party contracts and this is one such contract for us to reconnect young people with education,” Mr White said.

Directions in Northam previously had the contract but lost the tender to RDA.

Mr White said RDA had been doing the work since January 1 and would comply with Federal Government's requirements.

One requirement is for the body with the contract to have a shopfront.

Mr White said RDA did not yet have a shopfront but was discussing office space with the Shire of York.

“We will be employing at least six staff,” he said.

“And the service will extend throughout the Wheatbelt.”