YASS resources

YASS guide and course list

The YASS guide and course list (.pdf) takes you through what YASS is, who it is for, the benefits of taking part as well as containing details for each course available through YASS.

There’s also a short version of the course guide (.pdf) available, with clickable links so you can find out more about each course.

Guide for teachers and resources

We have a guide that is designed for teachers (.pdf) in schools that are interested in registering pupils to take part in YASS. It includes details of how the programme works, the role of the YASS co-ordinator in school, and support available.

Our YASS information session resource pack can be used in school when talking to prospective students and their parents/carers about YASS. YASS co-ordinators can request a copy or find out more by emailing the YASS team.

Co-ordinators whose schools register to take part can now access key additional information for supporting students, in the 2024/25 Co-ordinator Pack (.pdf) .

Frequently asked questions 

Read our answers to questions that are frequently asked (.pdf) about the scheme by potential YASS students and school co-ordinators.

Studying with the OU

Induction

Before starting your YASS course you should complete The Open University’s ‘Being an OU student’ unit on OpenLearn. This will take about 12 hours and you can start anytime.

If you do not have time to complete the whole unit, we recommend you complete session two as this is most relevant for YASS students. This will help you get off to the best possible start on your YASS studies. 

Getting started on your YASS studies

This video has tips and advice on getting started with your OU studies:

StudentHome page

• Your module websites, with their study resources and links to tutors and fellow students
• Tutor details
• Assignment and exam information, and the online TMA and EMA service for submitting and collecting assignments

YASS student support

Find out more about Open University support services which can be accessed by registered YASS students, for example if they have questions about OU study and general processes, disability support, and IT-related matters.

Educational resources

Discover more about educational resources, from our companion app for OU module websites, and college study spaces, to free OpenLearn resources, and the OpenSTEM Labs. 

Careers advice and guidance

Pupils who study a YASS course can access the OU's Careers and Employability Service while studying their course and for up to three years after completing their course.

This includes being able to book a consultation with a careers advisor and access OU careers webinars and forums.