Free OU courses give new Year 12 students a head start for university
AS students across Wales open their GCSE results, thoughts will naturally turn to what comes next.
Some students may be heading to sixth form or college in the autumn, with a longer-term aspiration to go on to university in the future.
Getting into university can be very competitive.
Any opportunity to strengthen a student’s Ucas application can help give them an advantage in getting into their university of choice.
The Open University in Wales is running free online short courses to help students demonstrate key study skills in order to get a head start in any future university application.
Up to 120 places are fully funded by The Open University and open to any students entering Year 12.
The modules start in October and will typically run for 21 weeks at a pace of four to six hours independent study a week, concluding with one end of module assessment.
Students can choose from one of four modules:
■ Galaxies, stars and planets
■ Molecules, medicines and drugs: A chemical story
■ The frozen planet ■ Volcanoes, earthquakes and tsunamis
While these may especially appeal to pupils studying science or geography, any student will benefit from the communication and learning skills acquired from this method of study.
No previous scientific qualifications are necessary, just an interest to learn.
Created by The Open University and fully accredited, the online modules focus on a range of learning outcomes based on subject knowledge, cognitive, practical, professional and key skills.
Although credits from these courses can’t be put towards learners’ Ucas tariff, the transferable skills acquired are sure to help any student’s Ucas personal statement stand out from the crowd.
Such skills will also be relevant for any future employment opportunities and encourage a love of a learning.
■ Registration closes on September 12, so there’s still time to sign up. To find out more about the courses visit www.bit.ly/ OUyoungpeople or to request a registration pack contact walespartnerships@open.ac.uk.