Carpentry students step into the future with virtual training
VR is not a replacement for real-life scenarios and isn’t meant to take away from the hands-on nature of the trade, but the important factors are that it allows learners to train on and familiarise themselves with workshop machinery without real-life danger. Neil Perry-Evans, Carpentry Lecturer
Coleg Ceredigion’s carpentry team is collaborating with two digital technology centres to use cutting-edge technology to support how learners are trained for the construction industry.
By using virtual reality (VR) headsets, learners can safely explore construction sites, practice procedures and experience realistic working environments without the risks associated with live construction sites.
These immersive experiences help build confidence, improve understanding, and introduce industry expectations from day one.
Working in collaboration with Construction Wales Innovation Centre (CWIC) and the University of Wales Trinity Saint David, real-life construction-related health and safety scenarios are filmed and brought into immersive teaching rooms.
Neil Perry-Evans, construction lecturer at Coleg Ceredigion said: “Learners are able to step inside these digital environments, identify hazards, and discuss safe working practices before entering workshops or construction sites.
“VR is not a replacement for real-life scenarios and isn’t meant to take away from the hands-on nature of the trade, but the important factors are that it allows learners to train on and familiarise themselves with workshop machinery without real-life danger.
“Digital overlays guide correct setup, operation, and safe working zones, helping reduce risk while building competence before hands-on use.
“For those not familiar with walking onto a construction site, a digital immersion offers a familiarity into the kind of environment they’ll be working in before actually going onsite.”
By combining traditional carpentry skills with AR and VR technology, Coleg Ceredigion is developing confident, safety-aware, and industry-ready learners for a modern construction workforce.