Our staff stories

I like the diversity and the depth of talent we get to work with. Students and colleagues come from such a broad range of situations and backgrounds.

What I cherish most about my time with the OU is the flexibility it offered, allowing me to pursue my degrees while maintaining a full-time job.

Why OU – I wanted the opportunity to develop my business knowledge further.

I studied for my qualifications part-time whilst working and bringing up a family, and so I have a natural affinity with the OU and its learners. As well as teaching at the OU more latterly I have also studied at the OU, and so I have experienced both sides!

Abigail enjoys teaching at the OU and particularly loves witnessing students’ growth, knowing she’s contributing to their personal and professional development.

The most rewarding part of my work without a doubt has been helping others grow and develop. Education-wise, I have a PhD and a Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering and I am no stranger to distance learning study myself having previously studied for an MBA with the Open University (an experience I thoroughly enjoyed).

The thing I most like about teaching at the OU is definitely the students. We have such a diverse and interesting student body. I learn as much from them about current business thinking and practices as the students learn from me.

I was curious about teaching for the OU as a long term student and believer in the access mission. I love helping students become better than they think they can be at things.

I am inspired by the values of the OU of being inclusive, innovative and responsive. These values are always at the heart of my interactions with our students.

Ben has been teaching for 15 years at a variety of FE and HE institutions.