Newham College could lose £500,000 of funding under government plans to reduce education funding for 18 year olds by 17.5 per cent.

The college has released a statement urging people to sign an e-petition demanding a government review into the proposals.

In it, the college states that the proposed education cuts are “discriminatory” and would “seriously threaten” the range of opportunities available for young people.

Calculations carried out by the college suggest that a reduction in funding would limit the breadth and quality of provision that it currently offers, as well as affecting staff and student morale.

In its statement, the college said: “We are in no doubt that this proposal will affect the most disadvanted learners the most. It will undermine efforts to re-engage NEETS, improve employability and improve social inclusion.”

A government impact assessment showed that the proposals would hit Further Education colleges the hardest.

To sign the e-petition, visit http://epetitions.direct.gov.uk/petitions/58949