Teachers and staff at Bermuda College have agreed a new pay deal after signing a three-year contract with the help of the Bermuda Public Services Union (BPSU).

The 130 workers have received a 2.8 percent increase in the first year, effective from August 1 this year, with the promise of a three percent increase in the second and third years.

It is the first three-year contact agreed between the college and the BPSU, as others in the past have been for two years.

The college said it would provide more stability and allow more time for the college to concentrate on its mandate for student success.

And for the first time, it unites faculty and staff under one contract, as previously the two groups had their own contracts.

College president Dr. Michael Orenduff said it was a "happy and special event" for the college, particularly as the contract agreement had been ratified without one single employee voting against it.

"We're a service organisation and our success rises and falls with the people that deliver that service," said Dr. Orenduff.

"The fact that we were able to extend the agreement to three years, indicates the level of trust that has been established, and that is heartening to both myself and the board."

Secretary General of the BPSU Ed Ball said he was impressed that it was the first collective agreement at the college that had been signed on time.

"Out of all of the years of my negotiations with the college, this was the first that has been able to be signed in quick order," said Mr. Ball.

"The enthusiasm was a positive sign and evident in the good articles that have resulted. The team was astute and progressive, and looked out for all employees. It indicates things are moving forward for the betterment of the students...and that's key."

The contract has also enabled student advising responsibilities to be extended to include all faculty members, where as in the past, one teacher could be responsible for advising as many as 80 to 90 students.

The college said the new ratio of ten students to one teacher provided a more personalised contact for faculty and students.

And during Christmas week, the college will now close in exchange for staff surrendering two days of their personal leave vacation.