by Robert Fisk and Samantha Payne

COLLEGES are protesting over changes which could see thousands of places cut.

Government plans could see up to 200,000 further education places slashed and subsidies cut to those remaining.

Now Lewisham and Greenwich colleges are joining forces with hundreds of others across the country to present a 60,000-strong petition to try to stop the plans.

The cuts to places will affect adult learners who want to study for professional qualifications to improve their career prospects.

And students who do manage to get a college place will have to pay more towards the cost.

This is because the Government is focusing its college funding on 16 to 18-year-old students and adults without basic spelling and maths skills.

Ruth Silver, principal of Lewisham College, Lewisham Way, said: "We are extremely happy so many of our staff and students, and members of our community, have demonstrated their support for their college and for further education in general by signing this important petition."

Bosses at Greenwich Community College, Plumstead Road, also confirmed its support.

Principal Geoff Pine said: "The college is very proud of the role it plays in providing education to the community in the borough and we are always ready to campaign on behalf of all our learners."

A college spokesman said: "We will not be cutting any of our level three or A-level courses.

"But we will have to raise our fees. It is not something we want to do but we have no other option if the Government no longer subsidises our adult courses."

The Association of Colleges (AoC) petition was presented to Downing Street on November 1.

AoC chief executive Dr John Brennan said: "The petition shows how strongly people feel about their local college.

"It is compelling evidence the Government should think again about reducing learning opportunities for adults wanting to improve their career chances and personal development."