Workers and students at London Metropolitan University were cheered by the news of vice-chancellor Brian Roper’s resignation last week. But they were also clear that the fight to save jobs at the university is far from over.
The recession is taking a big toll on further and higher education, as a programme of job cuts and course closures threatens the quality of education and choice of courses for a generation of students.
"We know you've got the money – save London Met." That was the demand of workers and students on Wednesday of this week as they lobbied a meeting of governors at London Metropolitan university.
Head sparks ballot at academy
Teachers in Walthamstow Academy, which is run by the United Learning Trust, are balloting for industrial action over alleged bullying by the head teacher.
Management at London Metropolitan University last week presented stunned union reps with a detailed list of all university departments and jobs they wanted to cut.
New Labour is facing a growing revolt over its education policies, which are wreaking havoc in schools across Britain. Increasing bureaucracy, testing and marketisation mean more stress for teachers and a worse education for children.
Tuition fees for university students could reach a staggering £7,000 a year – raising the prospect of graduates leaving college tens of thousands of pounds in debt, just as the economy goes into freefall.
