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.

Top 100 Apprenticeship Employer explains benefits to business

Announced last week, the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers is the new national league table showcasing England's outstanding apprenticeship employers.

1st December 2020

Time for change - Apprenticeships for all

The Open University's Apprenticeships Ambassador, Laura Burley, reports back on her contribution to a recent webinar hosted by Amazing Apprenticeships.

17th November 2020

How shared values are helping the NHS develop diverse management talent

Surrey and Borders Partnership NHS Foundation Trust is constantly looking to develop the skills, knowledge and diversity of its workforce.

9th November 2020

The Open University’s economic and social impact totals almost £3bn to UK plc.

New figures place the total yearly economic impact associated with The Open University’s (OU) activities across the UK economy at £2.77bn – a figure which covers teaching and learning, research, exports and direct, indirect and induced impacts.

6th November 2020

Celebrating further education: a vital partner in the post-COVID rebuild

This week is Love Our Colleges Week. At The Open University, we recognise and greatly respect the crucial contribution that Further Education makes to individuals, communities, employers and the economy.

21st October 2020

OU shortlisted for UK Social Mobility Awards 2020

The Open University (OU) are delighted to have been shortlisted in the UK Social Mobility Awards (SOMO) 2020.

8th October 2020

How Government funding makes nursing apprenticeships even more attractive to employers

The NHS and other healthcare providers in England are set to benefit from a boost to nursing apprenticeships thanks to new funding from Health Education England. As part of the Government's pledge to deliver 50,000 new nurses by the end of their current term, a £172m fund has been made available to encourage the uptake of Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeships (RNDA).

17th September 2020

"Absolutely go for it" says Tom, digital apprentice at Unilever

At just 20 years old, degree apprentice, Tom Amer has an enviable employment history and professional experience. Two years into his four-year apprenticeship programme, Tom has delivered million-pound savings to his employer, taught hundreds of young people to code, and been flown to New York to talk about it.

21st August 2020

Why young people need to develop skills for the 'new normal'

Covid-19 has had a huge impact on the employment prospects for young people. In fact, research shows that it’s young people who have been most hard hit by the pandemic and whose work opportunities are likely to be most affected going forward as the economic fallout continues

31st July 2020

How investment in skills is inspiring confidence in business recovery

UK organisations anticipate that it will take 18 months to fully recover from the disruption of the coronavirus pandemic and subsequent social distancing measures, with small businesses leading the way back to “normal”.

25th June 2020
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