XR TECHNOLOGY BOOST FOR LCR LOGISTICS LEARNING

A Liverpool City Region logistics training provider is using XR/VR technology to allow learners to immerse themselves in virtual work environments, gaining insight and experience before actually stepping foot into an HGV or a digitised warehouse.

Thanks to capital funding provided by the Department for Education’s Local Skills Improvement Fund (LSIF), managed regionally by The Association of Liverpool City Region Colleges, St Helens-based provider TRS is integrating cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) and extended reality (XR) technologies into their training materials for logistics apprenticeships, Skills Bootcamps, and other courses. 

Bringing the future of training to life 

The project funding is enabling TRS to develop virtual reality training materials utilising state-of-the-art cameras and video processing software. These innovative resources will provide learners with an immersive experience that replicates environments like automated warehouses and transport hubs, eliminating the need for travel and some of the risks and challenges associated with on-site learning. 

Beverley Ellis, operations director at TRS, said:

“We are incredibly grateful for this funding, which enables TRS to move forward with the digitalisation of training for logistics. Virtual reality opens up new possibilities for learners, particularly improving accessibility, enhancing skills, and widening participation. This is a significant step towards delivering innovative, high-quality training that meets the evolving needs of both learners and employers.”

XR solutions for logistics learning

The logistics sector has historically faced significant challenges when it comes to delivering on-site training due to cost, safety, and accessibility. XR training offers solutions to these issues whilst shaping training delivery for the future. Advantages of XR/VR learning include:

• Enhanced accessibility: Learners can interact with complex environments such as automated warehouses remotely, reducing travel costs and improving access for people with disabilities. 
• Improved health and safety: By training in a controlled, virtual environment, learners avoid potential onsite risks. 
• Environmental benefits: Minimising the need for learners and trainers to travel can significantly lower carbon emissions. 
• Viewing automation in action: VR enables learners to observe cutting-edge automation and robotics technologies that would otherwise be beyond their reach. 

These innovations also represent a turning point for curriculum content in logistics and manufacturing. Virtual reality allows demonstrations of emerging career pathways in green technologies, sustainability, and analytics while setting realistic, simulated workplace projects that develop problem-solving and teamwork skills.

Regional priorities

TRS’s XR/VR project aligns with the Liverpool City Region’s Local Skills Improvement Plan priorities, with outcomes that include:

• Developing a digital, immersive curriculum to showcase low-carbon and sustainable career pathways.
• Creating content that highlights cutting-edge technologies, such as automation and robotics.
• Enabling virtual explorations and work experiences to broaden access to key industry environments. 
• Producing a Level 3 Skills Bootcamp curriculum in e-commerce and automation. 

With the new funding, TRS is establishing two portable VR production studios and immersive classrooms with a capacity to train up to 16 learners at a time. 

Progress so far

With phase one of TRS’s project complete, here’s what has been accomplished so far, setting the stage for the exciting work ahead:

• VR equipment installed: The XR mobile studio is now equipped with a 360-degree camera and VR headsets for an immersive classroom with spaces for up to 16 learners, and advanced processing hardware for creating digital training content. 
• First content underway: Storyboarding for our initial VR learning modules has begun. These experiences will take learners through HGV safety checks, virtual warehouse tours, e-commerce automation, and sustainability practices. 
• Portable training solutions: Thanks to portable VR equipment, we can now bring immersive training directly to our employers or remote learners.

Transforming training across the LCR region & beyond

This investment and introduction of VR technology strongly support TRS’s commitment to innovative and sustainable training solutions. Beyond offering learners new virtual ways to experience and practice skills in working environments, this project will enable TRS to contribute to the drive across the Liverpool City Region to shape a more sustainable and accessible learning experience for anyone considering a career in logistics.

For further information, please contact Bev Ellis at TRS.