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.

Systems Thinking experts tackle economic inactivity with local leaders

Recent data shows that Mansfield, Ashfield and the surrounding area has high levels of economic inactivity. An economically inactive person is aged 16 and over do not have a job but are not categorised as unemployed because they are not seeking work, or are not available (or both).

7th December 2023

North Yorkshire Police’s first cohort of apprentice police officers graduate

North Yorkshire is set to benefit from 29 newly qualified police constables thanks to a partnership between The Open University (OU) and North Yorkshire Police (NYP).

5th December 2023

Interview: Bridging the ESG skills gap

Discover how your organisation can bridge the Environmental, Social, and Governance skills gap in this insightful interview with Victoria Hands, the OU’s Director of Sustainability.

1st December 2023

Talk: How skills enable a successful ESG strategy

Environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy was a key focus at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development’s (CIPD) recent Annual Conference and Exhibition. Phil Kenmore, Director - Corporate Development and Partnerships at the OU, spoke at the event with a particular focus on the skills challenges posed by ESG.

27th November 2023

The Open University welcomes six Entrepreneurs in Residence to help aspiring business owners

The Open University (OU) is thrilled to announce the addition of six dynamic Entrepreneurs in Residence (EIRs) who will be working with the university to help aspiring business owners.

20th November 2023

Uber Eats: Driving loyalty in a competitive market

In partnership with The Open University, Uber Eats recently launched a ‘learn while you earn’ programme for couriers. Under the programme, eligible couriers are invited to access a range of OU courses and microcredentials, free of charge, boosting their skills and professional development opportunities.

13th October 2023

Uber: Flexible earning meets flexible learning

Four years ago, Uber was looking for a way to expand its driver support. Uber approached The Open University (OU) to talk about creating a higher education offering as part of its loyalty programme that would give eligible drivers the opportunity to access fully funded education, either for themselves or a close family member.

11th October 2023

Five star review: first ever Uber-funded graduates celebrate Open University degrees

The first ever students to complete Open University (OU) degrees fully-funded by Uber are set to graduate – with the first ceremony taking place in London today.

22nd September 2023

The Open University renews contract with North Yorkshire Police

The Open University (OU) Department for Policing has agreed a new contract with North Yorkshire Police (NYP) to continue delivering a suite of blended learning qualifications that equip officers with the skills required to meet the demands of twenty-first century policing.

8th September 2023

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.

6th September 2023
Subscribe to Latest news and trends

Find out how we can help your organisation

Please contact us to speak to one of our business team advisors.

Contact us

Not on our mailing list?

Sign up to receive regular emails that are full of advice and resources to support staff development in your organisation.

Sign up to our emails