PARENTS of students with learning difficulties whose courses escaped the axe at Sandwell College have been hit with a £480 bill for the education of their children.

Last academic year the College’s Vocational Access Studies department catered for 168 students but this term it has been cut down to 42 places.

And after the stress of worrying whether their children would make it on to the courses several parents of the ‘lucky’ few have been told they will now have to pay fees.

One parent, who did not want to be named, said: “This has been such a tough time for all the students, parents, cares and teachers.

“First we had all the worry of whether our children would be allowed back to the college to continue their education and now some of us have been told we will have to pay a yearly fee.

“These courses are so vital for both my child and me who gets some respite that we will pay the fee which could be about £480 a year.”

John Tipper, chairman of Sandwell and Dudley Vulnerable Against Cuts, condemned Sandwell College.

He said: “The college’s course of action over the last few months has brought misery to hundreds of students, carers and staff connected with the college and I think it’s disgusting that the most vulnerable students have been hit the hardest by cuts in education.”

Sandwell College Vice-Principal Scott Upton confirmed that students with learning difficulties would have to now pay fees.

He said: "Sandwell College is offering foundation learning programmes at appropriate levels for four groups of eight and one group of 10 students.

"Although the number of programmes being offered has now been reduced, the Vocational Access Studies area has been saved from complete closure by a restructure.

"The action taken was necessary due to a reduction in Government funding to colleges.”

He added: "Letters have gone out to parents informing them of the cost of the courses. Some students will be eligible for fee remission, but any fees we charge are in line with Government guidance.

"We are anxious not to compromise the high quality of tuition and care we provide for our vulnerable students."