Press Release, 22nd Feb, 2013

Sharp fall in part-time places

Greenock and Inverclyde MSP Duncan McNeil has expressed serious concerns at the sharp fall in part-time students attending James Watt College.

Figures obtained under freedom of information laws, show that the number has plummeted by almost 2,000 between 2009/10 and 2011/12.

The Labour MSP believes the sharp reduction in part-time places is a real blow to adult learners who rely on them to balance work and family commitments.

Duncan McNeil said:

"Access to part-time education is vital to adult learners who want a second chance to get an education, but at the same time need to balance work and family commitments".

"The cut in part-time places represents a real blow for these adult learners who simply cannot afford to study full-time".

"It must be really frustrating for those who took the positive step to apply for a part-time college place in order to improve their life chances, but were then knocked back."

"The SNP government needs to ensure our colleges are properly funded so local people can continue to get access to part-time courses."