Working in the community

The Open University in Wales works closely with local communities across Wales and a range of community partnerships, voluntary organisations and local training providers within the regions to reduce barriers to higher education (HE) and raise aspirations and skills in the most disadvantaged communities across Wales.

The Open University offers part time supported distance learning. This means people can study from home (or anywhere else) and fit their studies around their work and life commitments. All OU courses offer credits at Higher Education level and can count towards a degree or other qualification. Courses can also be taken individually and can directly link to skills development for work. The OU’s model of delivery offers alternative forms of progression or bridging to Higher Education for students where conventional campus study is either not available or is difficult to access.
 
In line with Welsh Government directives and the Open University social justice mission the OU in Wales works in partnership, across the three regions (Mid/North, South East and South West) of Wales, to develop innovative pathway programmes to help ensure non traditional students have the necessary support to access Higher Education and achieve their study goals.
 
Funded through the Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) the OU in Wales Widening Access work targets prospective students living in Communities First areas as well as other under represented groups, including disabled people and carers.