Bradford College Students Take Part in Emergency Services Drill

Students collaborate in mass casualty simulation with emergency responders

On Sunday 26 October, students from Bradford College participated in a mass casualty simulation exercise alongside West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and St John Ambulance. The event aimed to provide practical training in emergency response within a controlled, realistic environment.

Details of the Simulation Exercise

The exercise took place at the Richard Dunn Sports Centre, where a scenario based on a nightclub or concert incident was recreated. The setting included elements such as music, smoke machines, and party lights to simulate the conditions emergency services might face during such an event.

Students from both the Further Education (FE) and Higher Education (HE) Makeup courses worked in collaboration with Uniformed Public Services students. The makeup students began the day at Leeds Road Fire Station, where they applied prosthetic wounds and injuries to volunteers. These injuries were designed according to a trauma list provided by the emergency services to ensure authenticity.

At the sports centre, makeup students continued applying injuries to Uniformed Public Services students, some of whom acted as casualties to be located and treated. The venue was set with minimal lighting to further challenge the emergency responders, including fire crews and St John Ambulance teams, who practiced locating and providing treatment to the simulated casualties.

Learning Outcomes and Collaboration

• The exercise provided students with hands-on experience in emergency response scenarios.
• Makeup artistry was used to enhance the realism of the simulation, helping responders train under more authentic conditions.
• The collaboration between different student departments and emergency services highlighted the importance of teamwork in crisis situations.
• Participants reflected on the practical challenges and skills required in emergency scenarios following the exercise.

This event forms part of Bradford College’s wider efforts to offer students real-world learning opportunities across various disciplines, preparing them for future careers in both creative and specialist industries.