WEYMOUTH College principal Liz Myles has been suspended from her post.

A statement issued by the college said: “We have no further comment other than to confirm that the principal Liz Myles has been suspended from her post, pending an investigation.

“To ensure we maintain the integrity of the investigation, no further information can be provided at this time.”

Concerns have been expressed that staff and students at the college, which is facing financial pressures, are approaching Christmas with ‘uncertainty’. The college has faced a number of cost-cutting measures and has been working with the Further Education Commissioner to reduce its curriculum to save money.

The college made a U-turn in September on a controversial decision to close its library.

In August the college, which employs more than 500 staff, entered a period of consultation over potential redundancies that could affect up to 21 jobs. It came after Dr David Collins, the FE commissioner, conducted of the college’s financial position.

Liz Myles told the Echo in September: “We’re reducing the curriculum to what is absolutely viable. We have had to reduce a couple of courses which had few numbers.

“We have had a higher intake of students, last year our numbers increased by 15 per cent, but the financial struggles we face correspond to cuts in the public sector.”

As part of the ongoing recovery programme the college, which has seen large improvements in performance, has been working with the FE Commissioner on a Structure and Prospects Appraisal.

The Commissioner’s office did not want to comment, saying it was a matter for the governing body.

Former Ofsted inspector Ms Myles has been the principal since July, 2012.

It’s not all been bad news for the college. Last week it was praised at the Association of Colleges Beacon Awards for the quality of its careers advice through its Careers College initiative.

In October the college launched the Hix Academy, a new restaurant and training facility in association with celebrity chef and former student Mark Hix.

Labour’s Prospective Parliamentary Candidate for South Dorset Simon Bowkett said he had been contacted by people connected to the college about the suspension.

He said: “The exact circumstances are unclear at present, and it would be inappropriate to comment or speculate on the impact of this news until the college makes its position clear once the investigation that is now underway reaches a conclusion. However, it is of course well known that the college is subject to a review by the Further Education Commissioner, and has been – and remains – under acute financial pressure.

“At this time, my primary concern is for the college’s students, apprentices, and staff who now enter the Christmas period with considerable uncertainty, and I shall be offering whatever support I can.”

Mr Bowkett added: “Weymouth College can and should play a full part in the provision and development of local skills, and in bringing more and better jobs to the local area. It is vital that the college now pulls together to focus on securing its future, linked to other local skills and employment strategies, and in partnership with local business leaders and community organisations.”