Issue 36 - June 2010 - The Open University

Promoting understanding of mental health in ScotlandMental health is an issue that is high on the agenda in Scotland just now and with the launchof a new certificate in mental health studies, The Open University is playing its part to helppromote understanding and knowledge of mental health and to improve practice in healthand social care services.The certificate comprises two courses of 30 credit points - Challenging ideas in mentalhealth and Diverse perspectives on mental health – both of which are popular options onthe OU’s social work degree in Scotland and also form part of the pre-registration mentalhealth nursing programme. The certificate has been purposely designed for a broad audienceof professionals and lay people, to promote a broader understanding of mental health andwellbeing as part of mainstream life; not just as a medical issue.Further info: Joyce Cavaye > 0131 549 7904 > j.e.cavaye@open.ac.ukOU welcomes extension of ILA schemefor part-time postgraduatesThe Open University in Scotland welcomes the Scottish Government’srecent decision to extend the ILA500 scheme for part-time postgraduatestudents for another year. More than 70% of Scottish taught postgraduatestudents study part-time; over 700 studying with The OU in Scotland.In the current economic climate, Scotland needs to ensure that morepeople have access to opportunities for up-skilling and re-skilling.Recent increases to OU student registration figures in Scotlandindicate a strong demand for flexible part-time skills developmentopportunities, particularly from those already in or seekingemployment, if the appropriate financial support is available.Further info: Kate Main > 0131 549 7131 > k.main@open.ac.ukDr James MillerNew OU Director in ScotlandDr James Miller has been named as the next Director of TheOpen University in Scotland. He succeeds Peter Syme andjoins the University on 1st August from his post as ChiefExecutive of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeonsin Glasgow.James Miller said: “I am delighted to have been appointedto the Director of The Open University in Scotland. Havingbeen a part-time student for much of my working life I havea great affinity with OU students. This is an exciting andchallenging time for higher education and I look forwardto working with the team in Scotland and the wider UK toachieve the strategic goals of the University. In particular,I am keen to build on the excellent position the OU has inScotland to seek out new opportunities and partnerships.”Further info:Kate Signorini > 0131 549 7162 > c.a.signorini@open.ac.uk