Student angered after course is axed

Image 466758> James McCabe from Dromore enrolled last week after passing his AS level course in History, Psychology and Politics and planned to do the A2 courses this year. He was asked to go to the college on Monday morning to collect his timetable.

But he and a dozen other students were met by a teacher who told them the course was cancelled due to lack of finance. He said that at no time during the enrolment was there any indication that the course might not go ahead.

James said: "They have just put up a 20m college yet we were told the course was axed due to financial reasons.

"I am now left in limbo. There is no time to go to another college as the courses in Downpatrick are also cancelled. I am very disappointed at the way we were treated and feel very let down."

His father Paul McCabe, who has been involved in education for 30 years, described the situation as 'unbelievable' and 'unacceptable.'

"What is my son supposed to do now," he asked. "I have been in education for three decades and I have never heard the like of this before. I have tried to ring the principal but could not get a hold of him. I will be seeking legal advice on this. The college have just ignored the cream of their pupils and thanks to them my son has been left stranded.

"In their perspectus and website it clearly states that if you complete the AS year you can complete the second year A2. it is very disappointing because there are very few options left open to him.

"As a parent, I received no notification from the college and only found out in a phone call from James on Monday afternoon. Why were they still enrolling students for A2 on Wednesday, September 1?. The literature on the website and the prospectus still advertises A2 courses as a means to entering university. "

Councillor Thomas Beckett said he was aware of the situation and will be pushing hard to get the courses reinstated.

"We have this brand new purpose built building which cost 20m so why are they turning away students?" he asked. "I will be raising this at a higher level."

A spokesperson for the College said SERC was committed to providing a wide range of courses.

In a statement they said: "However while we promote a choice we must have the demand to ensure that courses are financially viable and that we, as a publicly funded organisation, are as efficient as possible.

"While we have experienced a decrease in demand for A level courses there has been a high demand for vocational BTEC qualifications which are equivalent to A levels. These provide an entry into university as well as being highly regarded by employers. Access to University courses have also experienced high levels of growth.

"Students were informed of potential changes in August and confirmation has been provided this week regarding A levels. SERC is mindful of making such decisions in a timely manner. We endeavour to keep enrolment open even in the first week of term in order to give courses every opportunity to be financially viable.

"Students who are impacted by changes can contact careers staff at SERC for advice and guidance on alternative routes."