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News from The Open University

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A successful year for OpenLearn

It has been a successful year for The Open University’s free learning platform, OpenLearn, which has seen a significant rise in the number of people enrolling onto its courses. 890,000 people enrolled on an open learn course in the year 2022/23 compared to 794,000 the previous year (21/22). The platform, which offers more than 900 […]

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Charlie holding a microphone

‘I’m excited for the next chapter’ says cancer survivor and proud graduate Charlie

Having played competitive sports for many years Charlie, 58, faced the biggest battle of his life to overcome a critical illness during his Open University (OU) Sport, Fitness and Coaching degree. Charlie describes how digging deep and making the most of the OU’s support, gave him the strength to cross the finish line. He’s now […]

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Professor Sally Jordan awarded 2023 Institute of Physics Lawrence Bragg Medal and Prize

Professor Sally Jordan from The Open University (OU) has been awarded the prestigious 2023 Institute of Physics Lawrence Bragg Medal and Prize for her contribution to physics education, often as ‘a genuine unsung hero who works selflessly for others’. The Institute of Physics (IOP) is the professional body and learned society for physics, and the […]

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Tarryn smiling to the camera with trees and sunshine in the background

‘I love the student community at the OU’

On World Mental Health Day, Tarryn, 23, shares how studying at The Open University (OU) has given her the support and confidence she needs to pursue a new career path, helping young people to discover their potential. Challenging circumstances Following a misdiagnosis that followed her throughout school, Tarryn’s early education was fraught with challenges. “Back […]

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Jez carrying out a scientific experiment

‘I’m breaking down barriers to higher education, just like the OU did for me’

Jez, 51, left school with no qualifications, believing that higher education was beyond his reach. Years later, Jez chanced upon an Open University (OU) science programme on TV – a discovery that fuelled his fascination with space and sparked an academic journey he never imagined was possible. Now Jez’s work at the University of Nottingham […]

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Alan and Jane at 2023 graduation ceremony, Alan dressed in ceremonial dress

‘I’ll forever be thankful for what the OU gave me’ – pioneer student returns 50 years on

At 85, fifty years after making history by crossing the stage at The Open University’s (OU) first degree ceremony, pioneer student Alan returned to the OU to help 2023 graduates celebrate their success in Manchester’s stunning Bridgewater Hall. Alan shares how OU study boosted his teaching career, improved his confidence and helped him to find […]

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‘OU study gave me skills beyond a qualification, I’ve grown as a person’

‘OU study gave me skills beyond a qualification, I’ve grown as a person’

Rubi, 38, didn’t think she was cut out for higher education, until an exciting career change inspired a newfound passion for learning. Now working as a Diplomatic Assistant, Rubi says that her OU degree and masters have helped her to thrive. “I never liked school. I think it was the structure of having to be […]

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The Open University partners with Glastonbury Town Deal to offer free skills and training

The Open University partners with Glastonbury Town Deal to offer free skills and training

The Open University (OU) has partnered with Glastonbury town to offer a wide range of free skills and training. Funded by the Glastonbury Town Deal, this unique opportunity gives residents of Glastonbury who want to upskill, retrain, or learn new skills, the chance to study for free with the UK’s largest distance learning provider. In […]

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OU research reveals shocking level of online violence experienced by women and girls across the UK

OU research reveals shocking level of online violence experienced by women and girls across the UK

Over one in 10 women in England have experienced online violence, while three in 10 women (30%) have witnessed online violence Seven in 10 (68%) believe that current legislation is ineffective at tackling online violence against women and girls in England One in eight (13%) of women in England who experienced online violence say this […]

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‘I dream of being named partner of a law firm – that’s what keeps me motivated’

‘I dream of being named partner of a law firm – that’s what keeps me motivated’

Open University (OU) Law student Sade, 27, has big plans for the future. With savvy advice for squeezing study into a busy life, Sade shares how she manages to fit everything in and keep her eye on the prize. A mother of two young children and NHS administrator, Sade knew that going to a campus […]

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