Education Secretary Estelle Morris was confronted by striking council workers during a college visit in Eastbourne.

Miss Morris swept past dozens of protesters to officially open the ICT suite at Eastbourne Technology College yesterday The Secretary of State, who arrived in a burgundy Ford Fiesta, admitted increasing demands were being placed on teaching staff.

But she said the mounting bureaucracy was for a reason - to raise standards within Britain's schools.

Miss Morris praised the quality of teaching at the college in Brodrick Road, Hampden Park, the first in East Sussex to gain technology college status.

Miss Morris unveiled a plaque marking the opening of the suite which houses two computer areas, interactive whiteboards and video conferencing facilities.

Later, she attended a singing performance by Year 8 student Grace Hadley Reynolds and spoke to design and technology pupils.

She told teachers: "There has never before been more pressure on you than there is today.

"It's a tougher job than it has ever been but it's because we are trying to break the mould that education is just for a few.

"Often you have to step back and be a bit complacent. Once in a while be smug and say 'Damn it, I did it'."

Earlier, headteacher Janet Felkin praised the standard of work among teachers in Eastbourne, saying they were contributing to a better future for youngsters.

The suite will be used by other schools in Eastbourne including the town's post-16 institutions.

Among guests at the opening were headteachers from other Eastbourne schools.