Honestly, Open Uni saved my life (sounds dramatic - but it really got me on the right track and I certainly wouldn't be where I am today without it). I'm 21 and between the ages of 15-17 I started suffering terrible depression and panic attacks, they were really debilitating, as a result of this I have 2 GCSE's and No A Levels, no UCAS points, there's no way I'd be attending uni without OU. I'm 21 now and after 2 years part time, I worked my ass off, gained a CertHE and have been offered a place at The University of Nottingham - a uni in the top 20 in the UK! - starting in september.
A few pros and cons of Open Uni:
PROS
- really great module choices and options, very broad range of topics covered
- gives you a chance to rebuild your academic career and confidence
- tons of online learning resources via forums and the website
- open uni isn't solely done from your home, your tutor group will hold (optional) tutorials once a month and your regional centre (usually a college room they rent out for a few hours)
CONS
- lack of social life. honestly, if you're really keen on experiencing the social side of uni, it does suck, but in my case this wasn't a massive issue for me as i really wanted to focus on working hard so i could get qualifications and transfer to a good uni
- tutors. if you get stuck with a bad tutor it can be really difficult because the only contact you have with them is email/phone, and it can be a bit frustrating if you're struggling with the course material. my last year, i've basically just self taught, my tutor was disgraceful. literally. but this is an isolated incident i was told and regardless, easily rectified - open uni can change your tutor if it gets too bad - just keep in contact with them - i changed my tutor!
i've been in the position where you feel all hope is lost regarding education and academia (as i said, my GCSEs and A Levels were abysmal) but it's just not the case. open university can open those doors for you, and you can easily transfer credits or once you've studied full time there for one year - or part time two years - you'll be eligible for a certification of higher education (CertHE) and as i said, that's how i've been accepted at UoN. for the most part, i enjoyed OU tremendously and 100% would not be in the position i am now without it