Virtual reality brings Chester’s hospital wards to life for student medics
This week, the Countess of Chester Hospital proudly welcomed its second cohort of medical students from the University of Chester –and this year, their training will include a new immersive experience. As part of a joint initiative between the two anchor organisations in the city, students will step into the hospital virtually, thanks to a 360° filming project that captures key clinical areas for use in the university’s state-of-the-art Virtual Reality (VR) suite.
The project allows students to explore clinical areas such as the Emergency Department (A&E) including resus, theatres, Acute Medical Unit (AMU), maternity, and even corridors and external spaces. Using a VR headset, students can familiarise themselves with the layout, pace and atmosphere of the hospital in a safe, controlled environment. This new virtual reality experience gives medical students a realistic view of clinical settings, helping them build confidence and awareness in a safe and supportive training environment.
This initiative reflects the strength of local collaboration between two anchor institutions – the Countess of Chester Hospital and the University of Chester – both committed to improving healthcare training and services in the region. Together, they’re helping students learn in more meaningful ways and strengthening the future NHS workforce in Chester – ensuring high-quality care continues for our local community and beyond.
The immersive filming took place first in the newly completed Women and Children’s Building – a brand-new, modern facility that showcases the Trust’s investment in patient-centred care and experience and its commitment to training the next generation of clinicians.
The project builds on the long-standing relationship between the hospital and the university, including shared teaching spaces, simulation facilities, and clinical placements — all designed to give students a well-rounded, real-world education in healthcare.
Sallie Kelsey, Head of Education at the Countess of Chester Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This is a fantastic example of how we’re working together to support the next generation of healthcare professionals. As part of our Five Year Strategy, we’re actively seeking partnership opportunities that improve healthcare locally. Collaborating with higher education institutions like the University of Chester helps us to tailor services to the needs of our patients and staff – and evidence shows that students who train locally, especially when they have a positive experience, are more likely to stay and work locally after graduation.”
Medical students from the University of Chester undertake structured placements at the Countess of Chester Hospital throughout their course. In the early years, they shadow clinicians and attend simulation sessions in departments such as A&E, the Acute Medical Unit (where most admitted patients go initially), and maternity. As they progress, they rotate through specialties like surgery, internal medicine, paediatrics [children], and obstetrics [women’s health], taking on more responsibility and contributing to patient care under supervision. These placements build in intensity and duration as students near graduation, helping them to transition confidently into clinical roles.
Nicola Eardley, Clinical Dean of Chester Medical School at the University of Chester, said: “Our immersive suite allows students to experience clinical environments in a way that’s both safe and engaging. By projecting real-world locations into the VR room, we’re helping learners to build confidence and familiarity with their future workplaces sooner.
“The collaboration between the Countess of Chester Hospital and Chester Medical School is a great example of how technology and teamwork can enhance education and improve patient care. The visiting Chester Medical School team were amazed with the high quality facilities provided by the new Women and Children’s Building and delighted that we could film the areas to support the virtual reality programme.”
