My name:
Julie Catterall
My role:
Area Representative for England.
My priorities for the 2024–26 term:
I would like to be a source of advice and support to potential and current students in terms of how you apply to The Open University, and how it fits in around working. I started my degree many years after leaving school, so I am aware of how daunting it can seem. I also look forward to meeting the rest of the SLT and building a strong team that benefits students.
What I have been up to and what I’m currently working on:
I recently changed my job, so I’ve been busy getting to know people. I work in community care in my home county, which is very rural. It’s a job I have done for 33 years and really love doing. I’m looking forward to bringing my people skills into the Area Rep role.
What I’m studying:
I am studying Health and Social Care. I would like to work with rehabilitation services with young offenders, which was the reason I chose Health and Social Care. Helping people is something I am very passionate about.
What I do when I’m not studying:
I have an unusual hobby of paranormal investigating. I also volunteer with young offenders and for a children's mental health charity. I am also currently vice-chair on my local village parish.
I have a husband, one adult son and two teenage daughters. Myself and one of my teens are avid reptile keepers, so we have a variety of reptiles – many are rescues. We also have a variety of pets including ducks and hens, which have been rehomed after leaving battery farms.
My top study tips:
Make sure to pace yourself – break your studying down into small blocks and ensure you have somewhere quiet with no distractions. If you get tired, don't keep going – take a break and come back to it later. And never be worried about asking for support if you need it.
How to contact me:
Email: oustudents-england@open.ac.uk
Please note that a handful of Association staff team members have access to this mailbox.
Twitter / X: @Open_England_