Media coverage
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Media coverage
Title Disaster scenario sees chaos unleashed at Derry's University campus in simulacrum Degree of recognition Regional Media name/outlet Derry Journal Media type Web Country/Territory United Kingdom Date 25/03/26 Description Sirens sounded, emergency vehicles lined the campus, and scenes of chaos unfolded across the grounds of Ulster University Derry campus, but there was no real catastrophe.
More than 400 Nursing and Paramedic Science students stepped into the heart of a dramatic, large-scale Community Resilience Disaster Day last weekend as part of their final year module.
Recognised as one of its kind on the island of Ireland and unique to Ulster University, the immersive training exercise is regarded as a Gold Standard educational experience for healthcare students to build resilience for future practice.
On campus grounds, students were supported in dealing with a simulated train disaster, road traffic collisions, and a major aircraft crash scenario mirroring the intensity of real frontline emergencies on the ground.
Students were required to assess, triage, and respond in real time, testing their clinical expertise, communication skills, and teamwork, adapting rapidly as situations evolved to make critical decisions under pressure.
The large-scale simulation brought together by Ulster University staff and a wide range of emergency service partners, including the PSNI, Fire & Rescue Service, NI Ambulance Service, Red Cross, and Emergency Department staff from the Belfast and Western Trusts.
Over 150 first and second year healthcare students acted as role players adding a layer of realism that heightened the intensity of the day.
Neal Cook, Head of School of Nursing & Paramedic Science, School of Nursing and Paramedic Science said: “This event is a highlight of our academic year, where our students learn and develop alongside vital agencies in our community through simulation and active learning strategies. It showcases the abilities of all involved, highlights the value of authentic, connected partnerships, and supports the development of our students to meet the challenging demands they will face in practice.”Producer/Author Staff Reporter URL https://www.derryjournal.com/education/disaster-scenario-sees-chaos-unleashed-at-derrys-university-campus-in-simulacrum-6286694 Persons Theresa Maynes, Florence Sharkey
Keywords
- Resilience
- Disaster Day
- community
- emergencies
- engagement
- Innovation