The protest, organised by members of the University and College Union, took place at the Working Men’s College (WMC) in Camden on Wednesday, July 9.
The rally was set to coincide with a meeting of the college’s governors, who are considering reducing staff and student provision.
A total of 19 jobs are reportedly at risk just before the new academic year begins, due to funding cuts.
The Working Men’s College, one of Europe’s oldest adult education institutions, is in the area represented by Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
It provides essential education and skills to local communities, where there is a high demand for lifelong learning.
The jobs under threat include those in curriculum, support services, the library, and management information systems.
According to the college, these changes are necessary due to a projected £500,000 deficit and an unsustainable staff-to-income ratio.
The situation has worsened following recent funding cuts of 6 per cent from the Department for Education and 3.3 per cent from the Greater London Authority.
The rally aimed to highlight the impact of these cuts on both individuals and education, and to urge the government, local representatives, and the college’s leadership to reconsider the effects of these decisions on the college’s future and its community.
UCU general secretary Jo Grady said: “WMC has stood as a beacon of adult learning for over 170 years.
“Slashing staff and services in response to short-sighted funding decisions will do lasting harm to local people who rely on the college for second chances, upskilling, and social connection.
“We need investment, not cuts.
“Our members are fighting for their jobs and the future of adult education in Camden and beyond.”
Dipa Ganguli, principal/CEO at the Working Men’s College, said: “Adult education isn’t an extra – it’s essential. It underpins a stronger economy, healthier communities and a fairer society.
“Yet government funding continues to focus almost exclusively on young people, leaving adult learners behind. If we’re serious about education equity and opportunity for all – not just the young – we need a properly funded national strategy.
“I urge everyone who believes in lifelong learning to speak to their MP and demand action. The continued neglect of adult education is not just short-sighted – it’s reckless.”
