Just starting my final module to complete my Open University degree. Have completed courses with them over a number of years, but had my son in December 2010, and was on maternity leave from then until December 2011.
The fee structure has changed this year, and because I skipped the 2010/11 and 11/12 academic years, I am not automatically eligible to continue paying a reduced rate. Anyone else who studied towards a qualification in those years is eligible to continue with reduced fees (the difference per module is over £1000).
I applied to be considered for the reduced rate as a continuing student, as one of the grounds for this in their policy is 'Pregnancy and Maternity'. I have been refused on the grounds that myself and my son do not have 'special' circumstances i.e. no health problems as a result. This was not clear to me from the policy - it implied that pregnancy/maternity was a reason in itself.
Anyway, it rankles with me as unfair, because if I had not had my son at the time that I did, I would have been able to complete my degree by now and not have to pay hiked-up fees (and get a student loan). As I was on maternity leave from work, I guess I thought of myself as being on maternity leave (unofficially) from my studies.
Should I appeal their decision? Do I have grounds, legally, to do so?
Would be very grateful for advice.