Abstract

Health and safety training is an essential component of apprenticeship education, particularly in workshop environments where learners interact with machinery, tools, and hazardous conditions. Conventional training methods often rely on classroom instruction and written guidelines that mainly deliver theoretical knowledge, limiting learners’ ability to apply safety practices in real workplace situations. Virtual Reality (VR) enables experiential learning through realistic and interactive safety simulations. This study proposes a blended learning framework integrating a Learning Management System (LMS) with immersive VR simulations to support health and safety training in workshop-based apprenticeship programmes. The framework forms part of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project focused on developing immersive training solutions for vocational education. Learners first engage with LMS-based instructional materials covering workplace hazards, risk awareness, and Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). They then participate in two VR activities: hazard identification within a simulated workshop and PPE selection based on identified risks. A pilot evaluation involving five apprentices was conducted using Likert-scale questionnaires and open-ended feedback. Results indicate strong learner acceptance, with high engagement (M=4.4), motivation (M=4.8), and clarity of learning structure (M=4.8). Participants also reported a very high intention to follow correct PPE procedures (M=5.0), alongside low cognitive load and minimal discomfort during VR interaction. Qualitative feedback suggested that the immersive environment improved attention to workplace hazards and understanding of PPE usage. Despite the small sample size, the findings provide preliminary evidence that integrating LMS-based instruction with VR simulations can enhance learner engagement, safety awareness, and decision-making in apprenticeship training.