STAFF fear up to 100 jobs could go under a cost cutting drive at Mid Kent College.

The college employs nearly 1,000 people – full and part time – at its three sites in Oakwood Park, Maidstone, and the City Way and Horsted sites in Rochester.

The Kent Messenger revealed last week that redundancies were on the cards after the Government slashed adult education funding earlier this year.

Mid-Kent College’s adult education budget has been cut by £500,000 this year, a reduction of 10 per cent.

The college says that to avoid a future financial deficit it is reviewing all its activities with a view to reducing costs.

Three senior posts have already been deleted over the past year after departing staff were not replaced.

A further 20 managers have been warned by letter they face losing their existing jobs, although some will be able to apply for other posts.

Reviews of teaching and support staff will follow. Decisions will be made between now and January following consultation with unions and staff.

A college spokeswoman, said: “The college has informed staff of the position and the challenges ahead.

“It is likely that there will be a reduction in staffing but the college will make every effort to avoid redundancies and offer alternative positions.

“Widespread and ongoing consultation with staff has begun.”

College sources claim that the final job cuts could be close to 100. Management cuts revealed so far already amount to a £500,000 saving.

It is understood the college wants to save £1.65m on wages, with £800,000 set aside for redundancy payments.

June Cook, regional support officer for lecturers union NATFHE, said: “In the south-east region the majority of colleges are suffering budget deficits.

“We are involved in meaningful consultations to try and find ways that colleges can save money without making compulsory redundancies.”

The college claims the cost cutting drive does not include any plans to downsize or shut its Maidstone site.

The Medway sites are set to be sold off for housing if Medway Council approves plans for a £50m campus at Lower Lines, Gillingham, on Monday.