Innovative VR Safety Workshops at Ron Dearing UTC
Engineering students at Ron Dearing UTC in Hull recently delved into the intricacies of workplace safety through an engaging program presented by safety specialists from a leading company. This initiative was a key highlight of the school’s Engineering Safety Week, which ran from September 9 to 13. The workshops featured a multifaceted approach incorporating virtual reality (VR) technology and a competitive element focusing on working at height safety.
Expert facilitators conducted continuous sessions throughout the day for students from Years 10 to 13. An interactive competition challenged students to efficiently fasten a safety harness, adding a lively ‘Top Gear’ leaderboard twist. A coveted prize awaited the fastest contenders, making the experience both educational and rewarding.
The highlight was the VR session, where students strapped on VR headsets to virtually explore scenarios dealing with the challenges of working at height. They could visualize the safety implications within iconic settings like Blackpool Tower and Hull’s noted landmark, The Deep. This immersive technology provided students with a risk-free platform to understand high-risk environments, enhancing their learning in a compelling way.
An organizer noted, “The students were captivated by the VR experiences. This advanced method allowed them to internalize the dangers in critical work environments innovatively and safely. Many students showed keen interest and understood the significant benefits provided by potential future employers.”
Participants expressed that this session bridged the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry practices. They acknowledged the vital role health and safety protocols play in everyday scenarios, enhancing their appreciation of what they routinely learn at the UTC.
This safety initiative is another testament to the strong partnership formed since 2017 between Ron Dearing UTC and its collaborative supporters. The relationship has significantly contributed to addressing the STEAM (science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics) skills gap, leading to substantial advancements in the students’ educational journey.
Earlier this year, the school received donations of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as lab coats, safety footwear, and eyewear for hands-on training. Additionally, the workshop and digital lab spaces were upgraded with updated branding, enriching the learning environment.
Educators at Ron Dearing UTC emphasized, “The integration of health and safety awareness is a critical component that interlaces with the various engineering pathways we offer. Having an industry leader showcase their expertise at the UTC further enhances our curriculum, which is heavily guided by real-world employer needs.”
This collaboration continues to empower the students at Ron Dearing UTC, setting a high standard for similar educational partnerships. With such innovative approaches to safety education, these programs not only prepare students for the technicalities of their future careers but also instill a deeper understanding of the critical nature of safety in engineering fields.
The success of these workshops demonstrates a growing appreciation and understanding of how integrated learning experiences can prepare students more adequately for industry demands. As the school and its industry partners look to the future, students can anticipate more of these groundbreaking experiences.
