Simulated practice learning in nurse education

Simulated practice learning (SPL) has become an integral component of nursing education, offering students a structured and immersive environment to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application. SPL provides students with unique opportunities to develop their skills in supportive, safe and controlled settings. Whereas clinical placements remain fundamental to practice-based learning, SPL serves as a vital complement, preparing students for the complexities of healthcare practice.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) recognises the value of simulation as a teaching method, approving up to 600 hours of SPL in nursing programmes (NMC, 2024). Many institutions use these hours to enhance learning outcomes without replacing real practice experiences. SPL offers a safe environment where students can practise procedures, build confidence and refine skills without the pressures of a live clinical setting. This preparatory function is invaluable, particularly for students encountering complex or high-risk scenarios that may not routinely arise during placements.

Dedicated SPL weeks are often incorporated into curricula, allowing students to engage intensively with simulated learning and focus on achieving specific learning objectives. These sessions are designed to replicate the challenges of clinical practice while incorporating the structured feedback and reflection essential for deep learning. Evaluations of these SPL weeks consistently demonstrate their significant impact. Many students report that SPL is highly effective in meeting their learning objectives, describing the sessions as both engaging and immersive, reflecting the value of realistic and interactive teaching methods (Hill et al, 2024).