The Open University is a world-class British success story, proving that high-quality education can be delivered flexibly to millions. To meet the urgent economic challenge of retraining and upskilling, the UK should build on this legacy by creating a new, complementary service: Open Learning.

This national platform would be laser-focused on the vocational and on-the-job skills needed for the modern economy. To ensure maximum accessibility and affordability, it should operate on a "digital-first" model, with the vast majority of courses delivered online. This allows people to gain new qualifications around their existing work and family commitments.

For those who require or prefer intensive, in-person tuition, this could be offered as a premium service covered by fees. This approach would create a dynamic and cost-effective national retraining service, empowering people to adapt and thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Consider adding the high quality BBC learning tools and resources that they have built up over the years.

As people also learn differently, it is now possible to create a Video or Podcast of written material by AI, which provides a different choice to learn from.