This study investigates the student learning journey through simulation-based healthcare education, focusing on experiences across eight healthcare disciplines. By using simulation to transition theoretical knowledge to hands-on clinical skills, this research explores simulation’s role in building clinical competency and confidence before students enter real-world practice. Structured as individual case studies with qualitative insights from interviews, focus groups, and observations, the research captures diverse student perspectives on simulation's impact and barriers to engagement. Students consistently highlighted simulation as critical for bridging classroom learning with clinical practice, fostering a safe environment for skill refinement. Structured progression through increasingly complex scenarios supports skill acquisition, while the hands-on practice strengthens both technical proficiency and emotional resilience for real-life challenges. Despite its educational benefits, several barriers disrupt the simulation experience. Students noted limited access to advanced simulation tools, irregular session timing, and inconsistent debriefing processes as obstacles to optimal learning. Additionally, interprofessional simulations, though valued for promoting teamwork, are sometimes restricted due to logistical constraints. The lack of equipment consistency across disciplines further leads to varied learning outcomes, impacting the overall quality and comparability of training experiences. This study proposes a central support framework to mitigate these issues, recommending increased resource allocation and streamlined training methods to enhance student engagement and outcomes.

This research provides actionable recommendations to support simulation integration across disciplines and institutions. By addressing the identified barriers and focusing on clinical skill development, the findings aim to advance simulation as an essential, accessible tool for preparing health professionals in a complex clinical landscape.

Keywords: Simulation, student learning journey, clinical skill development, health education, engagement barriers, centralised support.