200 STAFF JOBS ARE AT RISK AT UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH

STUDENTS at the University of Plymouth are campaigning to save courses they fear are under threat as the institution looks to make up to 200 job losses.

- By WILLIAM TELFORD

The university told The Herald that some courses are under review and students have now begun a petition against the cuts.

The students say the axe is particularly set to fall on the School of Art, Design and Architecture, and predict the closure of courses in fine art, performing arts, music, and others, as redundancies affect academic and technical staff.

A petition on the Change.org website - entitled Stop the Cuts to Arts, Design and Architecture courses at University of Plymouth - has already attracted 1,349 signatures. The university says that while the review is ongoing it cannot discuss specific subjects.

Earlier this month the university confirmed that up to 200 jobs are at risk as the institution battles a sharp fall in income. The university started consultations with staff and unions and also put the future of its Levinsky Gallery and Jill Craigie Cinema, which are used by the public, “under review” in an urgent bid to save cash.

It is understood details of potential course cuts and mergers were shared with staff last week. Students at the university have contacted The Herald to say they are concerned and highlighted the petition.