A FORMER school is being brought back into use with the launch of a new social enterprise in York.

Tang Hall SMART is a new venture set up to provide clubs, classes and events for children, teenagers and adults.

Set up by former Burnholme Community College teacher Sue Williamson, Tang Hall SMART is being launched next week with a coffee morning on September 1, an afternoon tea on Tuesday 2, and a wine and cheese evening on Wednesday 3.

Ms Williamson, who also leads SMART'S centre-piece activity Tang Hall Rock School, said: "Social Enterprises are becoming more popular. For me, what appeals, is the chance to put into practice everything I have ever believed in, rather than being constrained by needless bureaucracy.

"Social Enterprises emphasize collaboration; and because the main aim is not to make money, or jump through hoops for the sake of it, you can do things that are much more enjoyable and worthwhile."

Tang Hall SMART will be hosting exhibits specially created by artists with local links, and has been supported by Melroseyard Studios in Walmgate, which are sponsoring one of the clubs.

Other national sponsors include UnLtd, the Joseph Rowntrees Housing Foundation, and UK Music Awards, as well as smaller York based concerns such as Earworm Records.

Tang Hall SMART is located at the Burnholme Community Centre, the site of the former school in Bad Bargain Lane.

Ms Williamson said: "I think a lot of people think the Burnholme School building is going to be demolished, but it isn’t , there are several business operating from there, not just us.

"I think as time goes on this is going to be a really vibrant site. And we will be there, right from the beginning, offering some fantastic clubs and classes, as well as one-off events."