What is ‘simulation’?

‘Simulation’ is often associated with full replicas of real equipment – computer systems, motion systems, and high-quality graphics. This is not the case, as simulation in broadest sense can include:

  • Real equipment used in a non-operational training context
  • Simple applications such as cardboard mock-ups, classroom exercises, or role-play
  • Basic computer-based multi-media graphics and animations
  • Desk-top computer-based training and assessment
  • High fidelity driving and signalling simulators

We have been using simulation as a key part of our approach to competence management for many years and have developed several unique resources and approaches to assist rail industry organisations, including:

  • Risk-based approach for competence management; provides a logical approach to determine when simulation should be used in training and competence assessment.
  • Simkit®; our unique tabletop simulation resource for railway operations.
  • Training; techniques for trainers and assessors to provide them with the skills and knowledge to design and deliver effective simulation exercises.

Download the SimKit Brochure



Tabletop simulation exercises are a valuable tool for developing and maintaining the competence of staff carrying out safety critical activities. They can be used as a standalone resource or used to supplement other learning methods - including high-technology driving cab simulators.

We have developed Simkit® to provide rail professionals with a simple tool for running tabletop simulation exercises. The kit comes in a robust carry case and contains representations of all the items of railway infrastructure and lineside equipment needed to run simulation exercises for:

  • Training and assessment of rules, regulations and operational procedures (for normal, degraded and emergency situations)
  • Emergency response
  • Post incident review - investigation and re-creation of critical events and decisions
  • Testing and validation of rules and procedures

Simkit® allows learners to interact with each other and the materials, providing them with a three-dimensional view of the situation and the opportunity to take decisions and put their knowledge into practice in a safe environment. Using Simkit® encourages learners to think about how as well as what they are learning and to increasingly take responsibility for their own development.

Users of Simkit® have found that it is:

  • Effective: Learners are able to test their own knowledge and demonstrate that they can apply this knowledge, providing a more robust method for developing and assessing competence than traditional classroom methods
  • Efficient: Speeds up learning and assessment, reducing timescales and increasing depth of competence and confidence
  • Flexible: Change and personalise to meet your requirements
  • Portable: A self-contained kit that is easy to carry and store
  • Fast: Quick to set up and pack away
  • Simple: Easy to use and understand
  • Fun: The perfect state of mind for learning. Learners can interact and take part in activities around the tabletop scenario.

Develop your skills to manage simulation exercises effectively

Simulation resources - even high-tech solutions - can only be truly effective if trainers have the necessary competence to run the exercise and assess the trainees’ performance.

A controlled simulation exercise follows a distinct, sequential process for design, briefing, delivery, control and debriefing – all managed through adult learning techniques. We have developed a series of training courses to develop learners' skills and knowledge so that they are able to design and manage simulation exercises effectively.
Our training programme comprises a 1-day appreciation for managers and a 2-day programme for those designing and running simulation exercises.

2 Day course & qualification
£349

(per person, min of 8 people)

Simkit Rail Simulation Kit
£395
1 Day Course
for Assessors & Trainers
£175

(per person, min of 8 people)

A practical workshop style course on how to get the best from the SimKit for training and assessment

The above courses are based upon minimum of 8 people attending.