Royal journalist celebrates outstanding second-year success as Open University students receive their results

Thousands of students across The Open University are celebrating today as they receive their latest module results, with one of those achievements belonging to young royal journalist and content creator Lydia Alty.

Lydia Alty shared this unseen image taken back earlier this year by Helen Rayner Photography | Helen Rayner

placeholder image — Lydia Alty shared this unseen image taken back earlier this year by Helen Rayner Photography | Helen Rayner

Alty, who is studying Health Sciences at The Open University, has successfully completed her second-year modules with a Strong Pass across all of her studies-an improvement on her first-year results and another significant milestone in her academic journey.

The 21-year-old, is widely recognised as one of the UK's youngest royal journalists. Through her popular digital platform, Royal Reporter Lydia, she has built an audience of hundreds of thousands by reporting on the British Royal Family, producing documentaries and educational content, while also campaigning on anti-bullying and mental health awareness.

Lydia's route into higher education has been one of resilience and determination. After briefly enrolling at Royal Holloway, University of London, she made the decision to continue her studies with The Open University, enrolling in February 2024. The flexibility of distance learning has enabled her to continue developing her journalism career while working towards her degree.

Speaking after receiving her results, Lydia said on Instagram: "I'm incredibly proud to have achieved a Strong Pass across all of my second-year modules. Seeing my results improve from last year makes all the hard work worthwhile. I'd like to thank The Open University and all of the tutors and staff who have supported me throughout my studies. I'm really looking forward to starting Year Three in October."

The Open University is renowned for providing flexible higher education to students from all walks of life, enabling learners to study alongside careers, family commitments and other responsibilities. As students across the UK celebrate this year's results, Lydia's success highlights what can be achieved through dedication, perseverance and the support of the University's teaching teams.

With two successful years now behind her, Lydia is preparing to begin her third year this October, continuing to balance her academic studies with a growing career in journalism and digital media while inspiring other young people to pursue their ambitions through higher education.

Lydia started her education at a Catholic Primary School before moving to The Chalfonts Community College, who educated her from 11- 18 years old, and then briefly to Royal Holloway beg enrolling at the Open University.