Experiential Learning in a Psychologically Safe Environment
This intensive programme uses real scenarios from your practice, supported by expert facilitation and 1:1 coaching, to help you build confidence in handling the most challenging conversations in clinical care.
"I absolutely loved the course and will recommend to everyone. It was so interactive and the facilitators were both fantastic".
About the course
This 3-day blended learning programme is delivered by the Surrey and Sussex Cancer Alliance Education Team and designed for clinical professionals who want to develop advanced communication skills for complex and emotionally challenging situations.
The course combines pre-learning, 1:1 facilitation support, and intensive face-to-face training days where you'll explore communication theories, practice advanced models, and apply them to real scenarios from your clinical practice through simulation.
You'll be supported throughout by dedicated facilitators and have the opportunity to work through a challenging interaction from your own experience in a psychologically safe, simulated learning environment.
Click here to download the course summary.
Click here to download the course learning journey.
Why this course matters
Effective communication is at the heart of compassionate, high-quality care. Whether you're breaking bad news, managing conflict, motivating behaviour change, or supporting distressed patients and families, how you communicate can profoundly impact patient outcomes, trust and wellbeing.
This advanced training goes beyond the basics — giving you practical, evidence-based tools and the opportunity to practice them in a safe, supportive environment using scenarios from your own clinical experience.
What you'll learn
Day 1: Pre-course preparation
All participants must complete a pre-learning workbook and attend a mandatory 1:1 session with your facilitator before the course. This day helps us understand your chosen scenario and tailor your learning experience.
Day 2: Foundations and Theory
- The psychological impact of illness on patients and families
- Personal and systemic barriers to effective communication
- The power of empathy and active listening
- Advanced communication theories and models
- Breaking bad news
- Motivational interviewing
- De-escalation techniques
Day 3: Simulation and Practice
- Embedding models and theories from Day 2
- Simulated practice using your own chosen scenario
- Guided facilitation and constructive feedback
- Building confidence in a psychologically safe environment
- Reflection and action planning for real-world application
What you'll gain
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for patient-facing clinical professionals across Surrey and Sussex, including:
- Nurses
- Allied Health Professionals
- Doctors
This course aligns with ACCEND levels and is suitable for professionals at the following stages:
⚠️ Before you apply, please note: You will need manager approval for all course dates.
Meet the faculty
Interested in applying?
⚠️This course is free for Health and Social Care staff working within the Surrey and Sussex area. We also welcome prospective candidates from outside this region; however, a fee may apply.
If you have questions about the course, eligibility, or would like to discuss whether this programme is right for you or your team, get in touch: rsch.sscacancereducationteam@nhs.net
Or scan the QR code below, with your tablet or mobile device
