Latest news and trends

As UK organisations seek to drive growth in a challenging economic climate, a new report from The Open University reveals how employers based in higher education (HE) cold spots are losing out due to a lack of skills and competition from other regions.

The Open University (OU) and NatWest have joined forces to bridge the investment gap for women-led startups through the Open Business Creators Fund. This initiative provides critical funding, expert mentorship, and digital tools to help underrepresented founders scale their businesses and contribute to the UK economy.

The Open University has partnered with Microsoft to launch the AI Hub, a free digital resource offering expert-led courses to help workforces build AI confidence, master generative tools, and navigate the ethics of artificial intelligence.

A new online product development tool designed by The Open University is helping manufacturers streamline how they verify, validate and test new products, supporting faster routes to market while keeping customer needs firmly in focus.

Explore the future of social work and AI. Discover how generative tools like "Magic Notes" are transforming caseload management, the ethical risks of bias and "black box" algorithms, and why human-centric practice remains vital in an AI-driven world.

Discover how leaders from TechSkills, RDT and the OU are navigating the digital skills gap. Learn why 'growing your own' talent and AI-ready apprenticeships are the keys to future-proofing your workforce.

Learn how to tackle the motherhood penalty and retain female talent. This guide offers practical toolkits to support returners and build a diverse, sustainable workforce.

This webinar, hosted by US2U Consulting founder Rachel Blackburn MBE with expert contributors from The Open University and third sector, offers a practical framework for making the business case for leadership education, including MBAs.

A unique partnership between the NHS and The Open University to give people the opportunity to study for a nursing degree while training on the job has scooped a top national award.

South West Yorkshire Partnership Teaching NHS Foundation Trust recently held an event to celebrate the achievements of staff taking part in a registered nurse degree apprenticeship programme in partnership with The Open University.