Verena Holmes computing facilities virtual tour

Take a look around the the Verena Holmes computing facilities, with our virtual 360 degree tour. These facilities are part of our exciting £150 million city campus investment. 

Hydra suite

Hydra is a unique and innovative training concept where students experience simulated events. This immersive experience allows students to practise essential skills in real-time as they solve a practical dilemma.

Created in response to the murder of Stephen Lawrence, Hydra was formed for the emergency services to practise their skills during critical incidents without the repercussions from a real-life event.

From quick decision-making to effective communication within a team, students get to work through a Hydra event before having the chance to evaluate their performance.

Hydra records the entire event so that students can rewatch their simulation. This gives them the opportunity to reflect and evaluate on their decisions during the time-pressured event, giving them the chance to consider other possibilities and, ultimately, improve their performance.

What’s more, each event is written by professionals, ensuring that every element reflects real-life experiences.

Each facilitator is also specifically trained to use Hydra. This means that students benefit from well-planned events that entail complex methodologies, processes, and techniques. Through each Hydra event, students liaise with facilitators as they carry out their simulated role and undertake effective plenary sessions.

The Hydra suite includes:

• Syndicate room where simulations take place
• Plenary room
• Control room where facilitators watch students via CCTV
• CCTV in each room for facilitators to watch group tasks
• TV screens and printer for facilitators to send news updates in real-time during simulation.

Students studying subjects such as social work, policing, and criminal investigation can get involved with the Hydra suite.