Hundreds demand Halesowen College lecturer's job back
Hundreds of people from across the country joined in a rally in support of a maths lecturer and three others sacked from Halesowen College.
David Muritu wants to return to work and is considering an employment tribunal after dismissal in December.
The college defended the sacking, saying it was due to a "consistent failure to carry out the fundamental part of the job as a lecturer".
On Saturday, about 250 people protested and march through the town as the college had an open day.
Many protesters were teaching union members who came from as far as Bristol, Chesterfield and London.
They walked for 40 minutes through the town waving banners and chanting support for Mr Muritu, as well as three other teachers who have been dismissed.
In the evening, they met at Halesowen library to discuss next steps.
Mr Muritu said: "This is a moment which has struck cord with many public sector workers across the country.
"The fact that management think they can just sack at will means causes fear amongst workers who fear they could be next at risk.
"It is hard, but people need to stand up to their managers."
The college says Mr Muritu did not perform to standards expected but the lecturer says that he was rated "good" in the last three observations carried out on his teaching.
Martin Lynch, secretary of the Dudley branch of the National Teachers Union, said Mr Muritu had been discriminated against for union involvement and it was not about his teaching.
He added: "We are here today to show him our support and put pressure on the college to reinstate him."
A petition calling for Mr Muritu to be reinstated received 1,100 people.
A counter-petition signed by about 150 college staff called for Saturday's protest not to take place.
