IT students at Newham College have been dealt a blow after most of their courses were scrapped with little warning.

The decision was confirmed days before they were due to break up for the summer holiday.

Bosses will now have to help students find similar places at other further education colleges in time for the next academic year in September.

Newham College principal Denise Brown-Sackey did not deny the sessions were axed for financial reasons.

She said: “Newham College offers an extensive range of courses including provision in IT.

“However, following a detailed management review some IT courses have been closed.

“Students who wish to continue their studies will be assisted to join course at another college or alternative provision at Newham College.

“Our staff will assist each student individually to ensure their education and training is not interrupted.”

Newham College runs a number of BTEC courses at its Stratford campus ranging from 36 weeks to one year.

Teachers were told about the intention to cut the IT department back in May.

One staff member said the announcement “came out of the blue.”

They said: “The worst thing is, there are no arrangements for students. We’ve heard they are going to ring round other colleges.

“It’s not a problem for the teachers, they can always find other jobs.

“But they were being asked to act as if nothing had happened and even enrol students for next year. It’s just been so badly handled.