The OU in Northern Ireland

“I always regretted not getting my degree.” Karen once felt anxiety had closed a door on university. With The Open University, she rebuilt her confidence step by step and graduated with a first-class degree in Psychology with Counselling. “The world no longer seems out of bounds for me, and I’m loving that." Read her story: ow.ly/ITc750YRHu1 #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek

Where could flexible learning take you? Join our Virtual Open Day on 21 May at 12pm to chat with experts and discover how OU study can help you step into your future. Book your place now: ow.ly/RxbW50YVuQs

Behind every nurse is a story. Elena, Nicola, Cheryl and Graham all came to nursing through different life experiences, from frontline care and mental health advocacy to personal loss and family inspiration. What unites them is a commitment to care. This #InternationalNursesDay, we celebrate every nurse making a difference.

This #MentalHealthAwarenessWeek, remember: you don’t have to face things alone. AWARE NI offers free support groups across Northern Ireland and online for people experiencing low mood, anxiety, depression or bipolar. Take the first step when you’re ready. aware-ni.org/lets-talk

Watching nurses care for her parents left a lasting impression on the mum-of-three Lyndsey from Co. Tyrone and sparked an interest in the profession. Read the Belfast Live article about Lyndsey's inspiring story here: ow.ly/7goT50YWqiu

Calling all start-ups and freelancers. The Open Business Creators Fund is now open to OU students and recent alumni in the UK. The Spring 2026 fund is offering grants of up to £5,000 to grow your business as well as free access to valuable business portfolio planning tools. The deadline to apply is Friday 12 June. Find out more for start-ups: ow.ly/ntIK50YTh99 Find out more for freelancers: ow.ly/LTHR50YTh9b

Interested in studying Psychology? Scratch beneath the surface at The Open University’s Psychology Open Day on 14 May. Book your place now: ow.ly/gPwY50YVtMA

According to research from Hospice UK, 27% of people struggle to talk about death with loved ones. Our @OUFreeLearning article explores the West of Ireland tradition of men voluntarily digging the grave when a neighbour dies. Learn more: ow.ly/NfjG50YUYO5 #DyingMattersAwarenessWeek

Our offices will be closed on Monday 4 May for the bank holiday. Phone lines reopen Tuesday 5 May. Enjoy the long weekend.

The OU and Microsoft have just launched an exciting new free AI hub on @OUFreeLearning. Access free courses and build your AI skills. Start exploring here: ow.ly/9YxP50YFw3m

Today is The Open University’s Charter Day, marking our Royal Charter on 23 April 1969. We reaffirm our mission to open learning to all, promoting opportunity, equity, and social justice through accessible higher education that empowers people everywhere.

Orlagh left college with just 1 A-level and thought university wasn’t for her. Years later, she took a chance with The Open University and never looked back. “I only regret not starting sooner.” Explore your options: open.ac.uk

Join an important conversation in Belfast. The Black Women’s Health Manifesto Collective is hosting a community consultation on 24 April, 12pm to 5pm at our OU building in Belfast. Attend in person or online. See the graphic for registration details.

📢 Upcoming KESS Seminar with OU academics Creative Learning to Affirm Diversity Dr John Maiden, Dr Stefanie Sinclair & Prof John Wolffe 📍 Parliament Buildings, Stormont Estate, Belfast 📅22 April 2026 🕐 1.30pm Set against a rapidly evolving policy context — including the proposed Race Equality Bill, reforms to 16–18 education, and the recent Supreme Court judgement on Religious Education in Northern Ireland — this seminar explores how education can respond to increasing diversity while reflecting cultural and historical traditions. The team will present an innovative, evidence-based approach using collaborative filmmaking, where young people explore religious, cultural and ethnic diversity through creative production. Alongside deepening understanding of tolerance and peace, the approach builds practical skills in: • teamwork and collaboration • managing disagreement • communication • media literacy Drawing on pilot work across Northern Ireland, the UK and Europe, the session will share evidence of impact from learners aged 12–early 20s, including 16–18 learners in shared education settings. This is a valuable opportunity for policymakers, educators and practitioners to engage directly with research shaping the future of education in Northern Ireland. 👉 Register here: kess.org.uk/series-8/

Hear from local employer EY, plus Rolls-Royce, Serco and Companies House, on the skills employers value most. Get practical advice and confidence to talk about your people skills. If you're an OU student or recent graduate, book your FREE place here: opportunityhub.open.ac.uk/students/event…

Considering an MBA? Time is running out to register for The Open University’s triple-accredited MBA. Develop your business and leadership skills with a flexible distance learning qualification designed for working professionals. Register by this Thursday 16 April. Find out more: ow.ly/p3El50YBOXa

Considering an MBA? Time is running out to register for The Open University’s triple-accredited MBA. Develop your business and leadership skills with a flexible distance learning qualification designed for working professionals. Register by 16 April. Find out more: ow.ly/p3El50YBOXa

This World Autism Awareness Day, explore our free Supporting Neurodivergent Children toolkit. Practical, expert guidance for parents, carers & educators, covering sensory needs, communication, routines & more. Start here: ow.ly/YLYe50YuB6P

Easter opening hours: Our Belfast office will be closed Fri 3 April & Mon 6 April. Reopening Tues 7 April. Wishing you a peaceful and restful Easter break.

At a low point in her life, Anouska decided to push herself out of her comfort zone. With flexible study at The Open University, she found confidence, purpose and a new belief in herself. Explore your options: ow.ly/c2UM50YzATh