Find your Mumentum

Your future hasn’t paused — your Mumentum starts when you decide to take the next step. 

Returning to work after raising or caring for a child can feel overwhelming — but you’re not alone. At The Open University (OU), we believe education can be the bridge between your potential and new possibilities. 
Backed by OU-led research, our Evidence Review shines a light on the real barriers mothers or primary caregivers face when returning to work — from the high cost of childcare to confidence gaps and rigid workplace policies. 

That’s where Mumentum comes in — turning research into real support and using education as a driver for change. Whether you’re rebuilding confidence, refreshing your skills, or exploring a new career path, the OU can help you find your Mumentum. 

Need practical support? Get your free Return-to-Work Toolkit

We’ve turned research into real-world resources. Explore our free Return-to-Work Toolkits — designed to help parents and employers navigate the transition with confidence. 

  • For parents: tips on where to start, understanding your rights, rebuilding confidence, flexible study options and more. 
  • For employers: best practice advice for inclusive, flexible return-to-work policies. 
Keep reading to explore how The Open University can support your next step, or jump to our toolkits.

What’s holding mums back — and how we can help 

Our research shows that many mothers/primary caregivers share similar concerns when preparing to return to work. Here are some of the most common questions — and how the OU can support you through each step.  

“Can I afford to retrain or study?” 

Many mums weigh childcare costs against personal income and future earning potential. We offer: 

  • A wide range of flexible payment options.  
  • Finance finder tool. 
  • Pay nothing upfront funding with a tuition fee loan (available in England, Wales and Northern Ireland). 
  • Scholarships and other support.  

Explore your funding options  

“How do I build my confidence?” 

A career break doesn’t erase your skills — it builds new ones. The OU offers: 

  • Free OpenLearn courses to upskill or explore. 
  • Microcredentials and short courses to refresh your expertise. 
  • Study-at-your-own-pace options.

Boost your confidence with free learning  

“Can I make it all work around my family?” 

OU qualifications are designed to fit around busy lives, allowing you to study anytime and anywhere. We have many parents that study with The Open University, balancing work and parenting responsibilities alongside their studies. Here you will find: 

  • Flexible study that works around you. 
  • Expert support from a dedicated tutor. 
  • Career guidance tailored to your goals. 

Meet the mums who are transforming their careers by studying with the OU

Leonie, OU graduate
BA (Hons) Business Management

Not sure where to start?

Whether you're exploring a new field or building on experience, we can help:

Know which subject you’d like to explore?

Search for a course  

Not sure where to begin?

Explore career fields and find out which course will help you get there  

Want a qualification that's unique to you?

Build a qualification around your interests with our BA/BSc (Hons) Open degree  

The Return-to-Work Toolkits

These toolkits were developed by OU researchers to turn evidence into action — offering practical guidance for those returning to work after taking on a caregiving role, and supporting employers to build more inclusive, flexible workplaces. Whether you’re returning to work or supporting someone who is — start with the toolkit that’s right for you:

  • Parents Return-to-Work Toolkit – Confidence-boosting tips, your rights, career planning, flexible learning, and real-life stories to help you navigate your return to work.

Get parent toolkit
  • Employers Toolkit – Inclusive practices, line manager advice, and flexible working guidance to help you retain and support returners.
Get employer toolkit

Join the campaign

This isn’t just a campaign. It’s a call to action. Start your journey.  

  • Share your story. Support others. Use our campaign hashtag: #FindYourMumentum. 
  • Follow us on social media.

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