Accelerating the Future of Medicines Manufacturing: Blended Learning Meets Immersive Technology at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC
Innovation took centre stage at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC, where Year 12 students participated in a pioneering Workplace Accelerator programme designed to prepare them for the world of work through a blend of cutting-edge learning approaches.
Delivered by RESILIENCE - the UK’s Medicines Manufacturing Skills Centre of Excellence - in collaboration with FourPlus Immersive and Bodyswaps, the week-long accelerator redefined what it means to be “workplace ready” in a sector driven by technology and collaboration. The programme combined interactive lectures, practical workshops, and immersive virtual reality (VR) sessions to create a transformative learning experience unlike any traditional classroom.
Students were introduced to real-world workplace challenges each day covering topics such as how medicines are made, Good Manufacturing Practices, health and safety, and sustainability as well as understanding the values and culture of an organisation. Each day consisted of technical lectures from experts in the field, workshops and independent research activities, where the students got to grip with the topics. Each module also involved using VR software from FourPlus Immersive and Bodyswaps, where students could learn about the cleanroom environment and practise much needed scientific techniques, as well as communication, leadership, and problem-solving in realistic yet risk-free environments.
Throughout the week each topic was related occupations within the sector and with more than 50 job roles explored the final day looked at career pathways, applications and interview techniques. These experiences allowed learners to explore and reflect on their performance in situations such as job interviews, team collaboration and conflict resolution, all while receiving instant feedback powered by AI and immersive analytics.
Student feedback
Students gave excellent feedback on the range of approaches used, the wide variety of topics covered and gave insights into the numbers of different jobs and career pathways across the sector they previously had not considered.
“I loved the webinar with Laura, she gave me some inspiration and reminded me never to give up as well as give me more insights into what I want to do in the future.”
“The whole experience was very good and should be recommended. Kate was very good at presenting the different topics and making it interesting all week.”
“I think it was a fun and informative experience – enjoy the journey because you never really know your destination.”
Teacher feedback
John Dyer, Project Based Learning and Innovation Lead, Liverpool Life Sciences Life Sciences UTC
‘’Wow, what a great end to a wonderful week for Liverpool Life Sciences UTC students tasking part in the RESILIENCE Workplace Accelerator.
“This has been a transformative experience for the students (and me) and it's been fascinating seeing how well they have engaged with this innovative approach to education.
“FourPlus Immersive and Bodyswaps the immersive experiences are incredible!’’
“Transformative and career-shaping”
The RESILIENCE workplace accelerator also featured workshops led by industry experts, focusing on transferable skills, career pathways, and the attributes employers seek in the next generation of talent. Lectures provided the theoretical context, while VR and interactive exercises allowed students to apply learning immediately — reinforcing confidence, adaptability, and self-awareness.
Educators at Liverpool Life Sciences UTC were quick to recognise the power of this blended model. They noted a surge in engagement, creativity, and curiosity among students, with many describing the experience as “transformative” and “career-shaping.”
Innovation leads the way
This collaboration between education and industry shows what’s possible when innovation leads the way. The Workplace Accelerator not only equipped students with essential employability skills but also demonstrated how immersive learning can enhance confidence, inclusivity and aspiration. As the UK’s Medicines Manufacturing Skills Centre of Excellence continues to champion world-class learning experiences, this initiative stands as a blueprint for the future where technology and teaching empower learners, connect education with industry, and accelerate the next generation into meaningful, future-focused careers.
