A further education college principal is to stand down following criticism from watchdog Ofsted.

Inspectors found Waltham Forest College, in Forest Road, Walthamstow, which has faced fincial difficulties in recent years, required improvement following a visit in October.

Lead inspector Richard Moore said too few students fail to complete their courses successfully, with results especially poor in health and social care, construction, hairdressing, beauty therapy and visual arts.

He also highlighted poor student behaviour in English and Maths lessons.

The college, which has a student population of 7,000 and is the biggest in the borough, was praised for the performance of adult learners and relationships with employers.

Principal Robin Jones told staff this week that he is to retire today.

He said: "The college aspires to be an outstanding college.

“The staff are proud of the fact that the vast majority of students achieve their qualifications and go on to progress their careers."

"The college will continue to support these students to improve on these important subjects as they are key to future employment opportunities and are taken alongside the professional expertise that they gain from attending a vocational course at college."

A statement regarding his retirement is expected later today.