The Open University has announced it will be ending the Tesco Clubcard Rewards partnership from Tuesday 31 July 2012, due to the cost associated with maintaining the scheme. And this is the place for you to share your thoughts...
- Platform
- OU/Tesco Rewards partnership to end
Yet another kick in the teeth for students who earn over the fee grant/waiver threshold, but have limited disposable income to pay for course modules. A number of students were unhappy when the level 2/3 courses were stopped via Tesco vouchers - but I am sure this will be the end of the road for OU learning for some cash strapped students. I acknowledge the OU's funding position, but this is still very disappointing.
This is a real shame for students. My wife to be and i put everything we bought (including most of our wedding) on Tesco credit card (and paid off each month) to get the vouchers. It paid for T216 (about £800) course and a number of others over the last few years, that i dont think we could have afforded without this schemes support.
With the way the OU is funded, I think it'll be the end of the road for me choosing courses based on interest because £1250 is just too much. As Nigel said above, its going to deter the poorer students who, like me, needed a second chance at gaining a degree and increase their prospects.
I hope the OU can get through this period of change, and look to find other ways to support the students as it lays down in the student charter.
Best Wishes and Good Luck to both students and the OU as an organisation
Simon