Author Michael Rosen backs teachers in Chichester College dispute

The move that would see the equivalent of ten full time roles being lost with students having greatly reduced face-to-face teaching in classrooms, and a permanent move to online independent self-study has firmly been rejected by the University and College Union who have launched a campaign to save jobs at the College.

Chichester College union votes to declare dispute over threat to Math and English teaching jobsThis follows a statement published last week that has attracted large support including the leaders of the main opposition parties on Chichester District Council. A meeting of staff last Friday also voted unanimously to move towards balloting for potential strike action.

Michael Rosen said: "It seems to me as unbelievable and wrong that in this time of crisis any authority is looking to cut jobs in colleges.

Chichester College issues statement over proposed Maths and English teacher redundancies"We know that this pandemic is causing huge inequalities and disparities in terms of access to education. Maths and English are core subjects and need right now - and will need for the foreseeable future - support and security of tenure.”

The author had been battling covid-19 last year and remained on a ventilator for six weeks.

He added: “As a matter of urgency, I urge the authorities at Chichester College to retain all staff working in the English and Maths departments.

Maths and English teachers jobs at risk at Chichester College"I support staff at the college doing what they can to keep these jobs on the roll. "

The ongoing consultative ballot is due to close on Wednesday (January 27) with the results determining whether to proceed towards industrial action.