Open Study College marks 18 years with in-house platform after two-year digital rebuild
Open Study College has introduced a custom platform, Ohana, following a two-year digital transformation.
Open Study College, a distance learning provider founded in 2007, has completed a two-year technology overhaul centered on a custom online platform called Ohana. The initiative, which follows investment in the company’s e-commerce site and CRM, coincides with what the business describes as its biggest monthly intake to date.
Ohana consolidates previously separate systems into one sign-on for students, tutors, and staff. Students can access course materials, contact tutors, submit assignments, and view feedback in one place. Tutors see assigned learners, respond to queries, and use an internal verification flow designed to meet awarding body standards.
Intake growth and platform development
The company reports more than 140,000 learners to date and a record-breaking September intake. Ohana was developed with input from staff, tutors, and students during onboarding, and is part of a wider transformation that also included the launch of a new e-commerce platform and updates to its CRM system.
Samantha Rutter-Bryant, CEO at Open Study College, says: “Beyond the celebration of our 18-year legacy, we are particularly proud of our digital transformation and the part our team has to play in our success this year. In preparation to scale even further, we have made substantial investments in our team and technological infrastructure, securing our future growth trajectory.
“It’s been a particularly challenging year economically, with many providers struggling, not just in our industry but across many sectors. Our team has worked incredibly hard and is so dedicated to the overall success of the business. We’re so incredibly proud to announce a record-breaking September, and this milestone achievement motivates us even more to achieve our future ambitions. We plan to invest heavily in our operating model, making sure that every touchpoint is genuinely valuable as we are committed to making sure our students' learning journey is a success.”
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The EdTech Innovation Hub Awards celebrate excellence in global education technology, with a particular focus on workforce development, AI integration, and innovative learning solutions across all stages of education.
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Winners will be announced on 14 January 2026 as part of an online showcase featuring expert commentary on emerging trends and standout innovation. All winners and finalists will also be featured in our first print magazine, to be distributed at BETT 2026.
