Latest news and trends

Stay informed with the latest developments in the skills landscape by exploring our comprehensive collection of reports, whitepapers, events, and expert insights.

At The Open University, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge content that addresses the evolving needs of today’s workforce. By working with over 2,800 organisations across a diverse range of sectors, we help businesses navigate the complex challenges of skills development, talent management, and workforce transformation.

Our longstanding experience in work-based learning, combined with our academic rigor, allows us to offer practical solutions and strategies for employers seeking to upskill their teams and plan for a successful future. Whether you're looking to engage with our latest releases or participate in a collaborative project, we provide the resources, expertise, and thought leadership to drive organisational growth and foster continuous learning.

OpenLearn teams up with Barclays Eagle Labs to support entrepreneurs

The Open University (OU) is collaborating with Barclays Eagle Labs to promote the Eagle Labs Academy that will equip budding and established entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge to grow their business.

8th October 2024

Developing the next generation of nurses

Learn how Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (NHFT) utilises apprenticeships to meet long-term recruitment and workforce goals.

27th August 2024

What does the Business Barometer tell us about the public sector skills gap?

Skills shortages, heavy workloads and wellbeing concerns were all messages resonating from the latest Business Barometer report, an annual temperature check on the UK skills landscape.

15th July 2024

Close your skills gap, train leaders from within

Following the release of the 2024 Business Barometer report, Dr Haider Ali, Director of Microcredentials and Short Courses at The Open University’s Faculty of Business and Law, explains how the OU can help businesses fill skills gaps by developing internal talent.

8th July 2024

Business Barometer 2024: Connections Radio Interview

The most recent annual report published by The Open University in partnership with the British Chambers of Commerce has revealed that persistent skill shortages are causing problems for organisations in various ways.

24th June 2024

Making nursing aspirations a reality

Risedale Estates was recently rated one of the top 100 apprenticeship employers in the UK. The Cumbria-based care provider has a 'grow your own' talent policy, with 25 employees having signed up to the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (RNDA) programme since it started in 2018.

13th May 2024

Employers report a values and skills mismatch with younger workers

Three in four (72%) of employers have seen a shift in young people’s (16-24-year olds) values and priorities in the workplace in the past three years, with over half (51%) attributing this to lack of work experience due to the pandemic, new survey has found.

22nd April 2024

IBM: Strengthening the ladder of opportunity

Chris Cocklin has one apprenticeship under his belt and is now on his second - a Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Degree Apprenticeship through The Open University (OU). And he has recently been nominated for a British Computer Society Apprentice of the Year award.

13th March 2024

The Open University aims to help transform the fortunes of employers

In another collaboration with the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) The Open University (OU) is contributing its 50 years of experience working with businesses to help employers prosper by assisting them in developing the skills they need.

12th February 2024

Ten business benefits of Agile leadership

In today's business landscape, the ability to adapt and excel amidst constant change is more crucial than ever. Agile leadership is a transformative mindset that goes beyond traditional leadership approaches. 

26th January 2024
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