120 more jobs go in restructuring

Some 120 jobs have now been axed at South Bank University in a bid to save £5 million. Some 95 staff have taken voluntary redundancy, 21 have not had their contracts renewed and the rest have retired - early, in three cases.

Deian Hopkin, who took over as vice-chancellor earlier this year, told The THES that the job cuts were in posts linked to reduced targets for student enrolment and that he was "confident" that the university was now in line to meet these lower targets.

Professor Hopkin has also replaced key staff and created new senior posts as part of his plan to lead the university out of emergency measures. He has created the post of pro vice-chancellor for quality and students, held by former dean for academic affairs Ruth Farwell, and appointed Richard Flatman to director of finance.

The university has also applied to the Privy Council to change its name to London South Bank University, after the creation of London Metropolitan University from the merger of London Guildhall University and the University of North London.

It is still looking at its provision to determine what mix of courses is needed for the future, while seeking to strengthen its portfolio in areas of high student demand.

It is pulling out of Wandsworth to concentrate on its Southwark campus, where it is building a new £20 million teaching building.

Professor Hopkin said his plans to form strategic alliances with further education colleges were developing. But he denied rumours of a merger with neighbouring further education provider Lewisham College.