BOSSES have admitted that the future of adult education classes in the borough is in jeopardy because of spending cuts.
Andy Wilson, principal of Westminster Kingsway College said the college was under pressure to cut back on adult education classes due to a shortfall in funds. Mr Wilson also confirmed that the college’s site in Holmes Road, Kentish Town, previously an adult education centre called the Camden Institute, would close for good in 2008, following the opening of a new “super-site in King’s Cross.
The comments came after mounting concern from students and staff following the closure of a life drawing class this term at the Holmes Road centre – because it was short of just one student.
Mr Wilson said: “We sympathise with the students and teachers but there is no money. The government do not see these classes as a priority.”
The classes are funded by Camden Council through the Learning and Skills
Council which allocates funds each year for adult education.
But Mr Wilson admitted that the details of next year’s contract had not been finalised – leading to the possibility of more classes being cut next term.
Elvina Jones, who has taught painting at the Holmes Road college for over 30 years, said: “There has never been a decline in numbers waiting to pursue these courses, for pleasure and to develop their skills. It is so important that we continue to serve all sectors of the community from 18 to 80-year-olds.”
Ruth Underwood, 47, who lives in Archway, said: “I’ve been coming here for 20 years. I find the classes very inspiring and very therapeutic.”
A spokeswoman for the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) said: “Our priorities are 16 to18-year-olds, apprentices, anyone without basic skills, anyone without a full level 2 qualification and those out of work. This means that our funding has to be directed towards courses which support and sustain the delivery of these key priorities.”