Fears for teaching jobs at Ludlow College

Teaching jobs could be under threat at Ludlow College, as governors today revealed it is having to "streamline" courses to help fight a funding shortfall.

However the college, one of the best performing further education centres in the country, has pledged to continue offering a comprehensive A-level programme to students.

The biggest impact would be on adult education courses.

The college will not comment on the amount of funding it has lost or how many jobs could be under threat.

Ewart Carson, chairman of the governors for the college, said: "The college, like many others, has had to reduce the range and volume of adult education courses in line with income reductions and cut its cloth accordingly.

"The college however remains committed to meeting the needs of the local community in terms of literacy and numeracy support for adults as well as offering training for potential teachers.

"Training for local employers as well as a number of adult leisure courses will be provided from September.

"It is likely that certain teaching and support staff posts will be affected. We are working closely with staff and their representatives throughout this process."

He added: "The college has a long and proud history of providing high standards of education and we would like to reiterate that any decisions taken to streamline our curriculum and staffing levels will not have a detrimental impact on student performance and achievement."

College spokeswoman Melissa Critchley said a consultation process had started on "restructuring" the college.