LAST week the work of Kingsway College was disrupted by a one-day strike backed by fewer than 20 per cent of the college's lecturers. The action was driven through by a small political minority looking to "send a message to the newly elected Labour Government about the funding crisis in further education". The leadership of Natfhe painted themselves into a corner by taking industrial action as a first, rather than a last, resort.
When the results of the ongoing consultation about the college's recovery plan became apparent, lecturers said enough was enough. There is a new mood in the college and people want to get on with the business of doing what they believe they are here to do: provide high-quality education and training.
The one-day action last week had everything to do with external motivation and nothing to do with the real issues facing Kingsway College now and into the future. In choosing to reject militant pressure, staff have elected to concentrate the agenda on re-establishing Kingsway as a key London educational provider.
Richard Williams
Chief executive, Kingsway College, London WC1