The research scheme proposed in this article describes the development of a PC-based teaching/learning approach to power systems education. The paper describes an illustrative network system to be modelled and the software’s capabilities and features, as implemented using MatLab. Simulation functions are introduced for teaching and learning purposes, in order to help students better understand complex electromagnetic transient phenomena of electrical power systems under various system fault conditions. The teaching impact of the simulator is discussed, with a focus on how students using this approach are supported with regard to developing their skill set, transferable knowledge and future career. The work demonstrates that adopting such an innovative simulation approach can allow for rapid simulation-based experimentation, and facilitates student learning in a safe and cost-effective environment, particularly where practical student experience is not otherwise feasible.