Solent hosts sold-out conference

The sold-out event welcomed over 150 delegates from across South-East England, as professionals from diverse roles in both healthcare services and education gathered to discuss cutting-edge simulation practices and opportunities.

Developed by SimNet for NHS South-East, a collaborative network dedicated to upskilling the workforce using the latest innovations, this year’s conference – Simulation4Safety – was the perfect fit for Solent, where cutting-edge teaching methods are in full swing.

Sarah Keeling-Smith, SimNet Project Manager, says:

“The KSS Regional Simulation Project is absolutely thrilled to have our third simulation conference hosted at the impressive Solent University this month. We have been honoured to welcome simulation experts and practitioners from across the UK to converge and exchange insights at this prestigious event.

“With a commitment to advancing the profile of simulation, the University has provided an exceptional platform for attendees to engage in dynamic discussions, share research and foster collaborative partnerships. The conference featured a diverse array of presentations, workshops and networking opportunities, including keynotes from Dr Dawn Benson and Warsash Maritime School’s Course Leader in Nautical Science, David Wolfaardt.

“This conference has been sold out for some time and we would like to thank the staff at Solent University for making us feel so welcome and providing such fantastic help for what has been a truly remarkable experience for all who attended.”

As a TEF triple Gold institution, Solent University embraces the latest methods of teaching to give students a cutting-edge teaching experience. Across a variety of departments, the University is investing in simulated learning to underpin graduate futures, delivering the skills a whole range of industries are calling for.

Warsash Maritime School, part of Solent University, is leading the way in this area, with specialist facilities that embrace simulation to deliver hands-on training that reflects real-world situations. The School’s Maritime Simulation Centre is the UK’s largest, attracting global talent to the city for the very best methods of teaching.

Elsewhere at Solent, burgeoning finance professionals can experience the world of trading in the University’s Bloomberg Suite; master the film industry’s latest technology on a Virtual Production Stage; and step inside the justice system in a law court designed for teaching.

Most recently, Solent has doubled its teaching capacity for nurses, with a Human Health Lab. Featuring an Anatomage table, six beds and a nursing station, the facility simulates a real ward, preparing students for careers in healthcare.

Alongside various talks on the uses of embracing simulation in learning to enhance skills, the two-day conference included an exhibition hall, spotlighting the latest equipment used in simulated teaching. Solent’s own Senior Criminology Lecturer, Nigel Lee, delivered the final workshop of the conference, inviting delegates to consider the meeting of criminology and nursing using simulated technology.

Jan Parker, Head of Social Sciences and Nursing, says:

“It is our great pleasure to host the SimNet SE conference this year, welcoming guests onto campus for pioneering conversations on simulated learning. I am proud that we are delivering learning that encompasses the very latest innovations, and we have enjoyed showcasing our facilities to guests at this year’s conference.

“Events like these are so important for driving innovation in teaching, and at Solent we are embracing those innovations for the benefit of our students.”