A PROFESSOR who resigned after Bournemouth University re-marked work which he had failed has won an employment tribunal.

Now the lecturers' union has called on the university to give Prof Paul Buckland his job back.

Prof Buckland, along with a co-examiner, had failed 14 out of 60 people on an environmental archaeology paper.

An employment tribunal found the re-marking was an "insult to his integrity" that amounted to unfair dismissal and breach of contract.

Prof Buckland's superior "took possession of the papers" and gave some students grades good enough to pass.

Dr Buckland resigned in protest - after 25 years in teaching - and said at the time: "I am not prepared to continue working in an institution where examination boards are merely a formality that can be overturned without any consultation."

Dr Kevin Moloney, chairman of Bournemouth University's branch of the University College Union (UCU), told the Daily Echo Prof Buckland should be offered his job back.

The university said three independent external markers agreed with the re-marking results.

A spokesman said it was "very disappointed" with the tribunal verdict and added: "We are committed to maintaining high standards... there is nothing in the judgement that would support a contrary view."

Dr Moloney said the tribunal's finding upheld the supremacy of academic judgement over administrative concerns.

He said fees had led students to "want something for their money" and added: "This consumerism is an insidious cancer that needs stopping."

He also called for a review of marking at the university.

"We think standards here are pretty watertight and we are vigilant to make sure they stay that way," he said.

Academic and author Dr Geoffrey Alderman wrote of the case: "Whilst those responsible for the fiasco remain in post, Prof Buckland is unemployed.

"In some circles Buckland may be regarded as an awkward customer.

"Perhaps.

"But he is also an outstanding academic, fearless in his defence of standards."