John Lewis Partnership and The Open University to support more care-experienced young people into higher education

Posted on 21 May 2026 • University news

Applications are now open for people aged 30 and under with experience of being in care to study an undergraduate qualification at the OU for free.

The Care Experienced Scholarship, designed in collaboration with The John Lewis Partnership as part of the Building Happier Futures initiative, has provided the opportunity to access free, flexible higher education to 22 students since its launch in 2023, with a further 10 places available for this academic year, starting autumn 2026.

For many care-experienced young people, who often face disrupted education, fewer formal qualifications, and barriers to attending traditional brick universities, The Open University offers a practical and empowering alternative to pursue their goals and reshape their futures. Young people with experience of care are statistically far less likely to progress into higher education than their peers, as time in care can significantly affect school attainment and access to university pathways. With its open-access policy and the ability to study from anywhere at any time, the OU provides the flexibility and autonomy needed to overcome these challenges and create more accessible routes into higher education.

“This opportunity has opened doors for me that I thought I would never get the chance to open. I’m sure so many people are in similar situations and having a scholarship fund like this in place makes dreams come true.” – Care Experienced Scholarship recipient

Supported by the John Lewis Partnership, along with generous contributions from alumni and other supporters, the Care Experienced Scholarship forms part of the Open Futures Fund, a tailored initiative from the OU. This programme brings together five key scholarship schemes designed to support distinct groups: disabled military veterans, unpaid carers, lower-income Black students, people seeking sanctuary in the UK, and those with experience of the care system. Together, these scholarships are helping to transform lives each year by opening new opportunities through the power of education.

“Since launching our Building Happier Futures programme in 2022, we have been proud to collaborate with The Open University. Care-experienced people can face barriers in society through no fault of their own and we want to help remove those barriers. As a business with a purpose to work in partnership for a happier world, we are committed to creating opportunities to nurture the talents of people who have experienced the care system and remain dedicated to creating meaningful opportunities to help them thrive.” – Sarah Scahill, Head of Learning and Employability, John Lewis Partnership

Scholarship applications are now open for study commencing this autumn. Please visit the following link for eligibility criteria, closing dates, and details on how to apply: The Care Experienced Scholarship

To hear first-hand from our current scholarship recipients and proud graduates, visit: Student Stories videos page.

We look forward to warmly welcoming our inspiring new scholarship recipients in autumn 2026.

Picture credit: Armin Rimoldi on Pexels