The Open University

How OU students are making a difference during global pandemic

30 April 2020

OU students work so hard and the university is incredibly proud of them for studying while juggling full-time jobs, childcare and other responsibilities. On top of that, many have been playing a supporting role in the fight against Coronavirus, helping local and wider communities. From working on the frontline to creating resources to help with […]

“Remember that you are a person as well as a carer” – applications remain open for the OU’s Carers Scholarships Fund

20 April 2020

With a reported 6.5 million people providing unpaid support for a family member or friend, it’s important now more than ever that we recognise the incredible work of the caring community. Last month, The Open University opened applications for its Carers Scholarships Fund, which offers the opportunity for 50 current or recent carers to study […]

Learning online? Advice from Open University students (the experts!)

20 March 2020

As UK universities ‘pivot online’ and students transition to a new way of learning, The Open University community – as experts in this field – have some valuable advice to share. Online and distance learning is second nature to OU students, but this won’t be the case for many students and their universities impacted by […]

From supermarket worker to maths teacher – all thanks to the OU!

19 March 2020

Nicole Lam, who grew up in Hong Kong, had always dreamed of becoming a maths teacher, but without the right qualifications she believed there was little hope of ever achieving her ambition – until she found the OU. I never believed I could succeed in higher education and I left school at 16 after GCSE […]

How to study with the OU: advice from students to students

13 February 2020

Our students work incredibly hard, committing to their studies while juggling a combination of life, illness, disability, work and family, and they somehow find time to fit everything in. If you’re just beginning that journey you might be feeling a little overwhelmed, wondering how you’re going to make it all work. So who better to […]

Study gave me purpose when the future seemed bleak

27 January 2020

Fiona Hirons began studying with the OU when she fell ill with Chronic fatigue syndrome/ME in 2002. After becoming largely bed-bound and being forced to give up her demanding career, she says studying helped her to cope with the loss of her previous way of life. Here, the remarkable Fiona shares her story: “I was […]

I never believed I could get a degree, let alone end up in my dream job!

2 January 2020

Teaching had always been Emma’s dream but when her teachers at school flagged that she might be dyslexic she feared her ambition was out of reach. However, with the help of The Open University and a bucket load of determination, Emma has finally achieved her goal and starts a job as a newly qualified teacher […]

“The OU gave me the tools to go out and make a difference”

1 January 2020

Bradley Neal always had an interest in the natural world and a concern with what was happening to the planet so he decided he was going to try and make a difference, starting with educating himself on the environment and the issues affecting it. “I have a passion for the natural world. The decline in […]

Cindy’s story: “Anything is possible”

28 December 2019

In 2003, Cindy Vanstone’s world was turned upside down. Her son was diagnosed with hydrocephalus and needed care around the clock, causing Cindy to give up work and care for him full-time. “Before then, my life would have been considered pretty normal,” says Cindy. “I had a good job in finance, a beautiful daughter and […]

“The OU changed my career prospects” Gary shares his story

27 December 2019

At the age of 14, Gary Steel left school to care for his mum. His education had been severely impacted by his caring responsibilities and despite being capable, he left school with no qualifications and entered the job market. A few years later he had the opportunity to attend a lecture with his partner who […]

OU News

Category: Student stories