“It is disappointing that UNISON and Unite have announced national strike action. Colleges will now seek to put in place measures to mitigate the effects of any proposed action on their students’ education.

“College Employers Scotland provided a full and final pay offer to all support staff trade unions (UNISON, Unite and GMB) in June for a cumulative £3,500 pay rise.

“Employers have requested support staff unions take this pay offer to their members for a formal ballot, as it would equate to an average 11% pay increase, and even more for those on lower pay.

“We hope UNISON and Unite call off these damaging strikes so colleges can continue to provide the world-class learning experience that students rightly expect and deserve.”