Your awarding body partner since 1995

Open College Network NI has been one of the leading Awarding Organisations and education charities for thirty years. Certificating over 600,000 learners, our impact is felt across multiple sectors and groups of learners. Beyond the numbers, every certificate awarded is a story of growth, opportunity, and success.

A trusted path for learners.
A trusted partner to educators.

In our 30th year, it is important that we look forward towards the next 30, maintaining our high standards and setting the tone as an awarding body. Education is the golden thread that runs through our society, and we are proud to provide transformative experiences for learners. 

By continuing to bolster the skills, confidence and mental health of individuals, OCN will continue to develop and award qualifications which engage, enrich and equip learners for life. To sustain and advance our offerings, we have created three strategic goals for the next three years.

  1. To be the awarding body of choice
  2. To promote learning as a tool for transformation
  3. To continuously improve through innovation and creativity

For further information on our Strategic Plan click here.

1995

NIOCN set up and supported by the five Education and Library Boards & Department of Employment and Learning (DEL)

2000

Signed an agreement with NOCN to offer regulated qualifications in Northern Ireland

2001

Pioneered a unitised credit based qualifications framework (QCF)

2001

Our purpose was defined as accrediting, quality assuring and providing opportunities for adults who had least benefited from formal education

2011

Recognised as an independent Awarding Organisation by OFQUAL

2015

Successfully registered with the Charities Commission

2015

June 2015 achieved recognition from CCEA Regulation

2016

Completed rebranding in January 2016

2016

April 2016 - OCN NI accredited 200th qualification, including 1,285 accredited units

2016

September 2016 - Awarded 48,000 qualifications to learners in Northern Ireland

2019

Launch of Learning Endeavour Awards in 2019 - started with 100 guests, and in 2025 we'd expect over 350 guests in attendance

2022

Launch of Centre Learning Grants - awarding over £250k to date

2025

Welcomed Dr Caoimbhe Archibald, Minister for Economy of Northern Ireland to celebrate our 30th Anniversary

Shaping futures since 1995

We partner with