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Colleges are facing increasing problems with behaviour, with male learners on courses such as construction among the worst offenders, according to a report by education inspectors.

While many students showed positive behaviour, Estyn found patterns varied across different types of students and courses in further education colleges. It said male students "particularly those on vocational trade courses like construction" were more likely to display negative behaviours. "These include the use of inappropriate language towards female learners, often driven by an effort to fit in or assert dominance in predominantly male environments," the report said.

It said influences from controversial social media figures "were particularly evident in male-dominated courses, where inappropriate behaviours towards female learners occurred".

Poor behaviour was also more apparent in younger students and those enrolled on lower-level courses.

Another factor which sometimes influenced behaviour was the design of college buildings, inspectors reported.

Problems identified by staff and students included poor punctuality and non-attendance, misusing mobile phones by recording and sharing content during class and vaping or smoking in or near college buildings.

The report said "although serious issues like sexual harassment and substance misuse are less frequent, they remain a concern".