Supporting the people who support cancer pathways

A structured education and development programme, designed to equip operational support staff with the knowledge, context, and confidence to optimise cancer care delivery and patient outcomes.

"This should be mandatory, it was very informative and explained in a format I understood".

About the course

This virtual learning programme is delivered by the Surrey and Sussex Cancer Alliance Education Team, via Microsoft Teams and is designed for professionals who want to develop their knowledge of the cancer pathway and performance. Staff have the option to attend all of the modules or only those that are relevant to their roles. 
The programme runs over two-weeks and is made up of three distinct, optional modules.

This programme has been developed to provide operational support staff with the context, knowledge, and tools they need to play a meaningful and proactive role in cancer care.

Across three focused modules, participants will develop an understanding of cancer waiting time standards, the multidisciplinary team environment, and how their everyday decisions directly influence patient journeys.
 

Why this course matters

Cancer services depend not just on clinicians, but on the operational staff who keep pathways moving, data accurate, and processes on track. By building a clear understanding of Cancer Waiting Time standards, the purpose and function of the MDT, and the real impact of day-to-day administrative decisions, participants gain far more than knowledge — they gain context. When operational support staff understand why their work matters, not just what to do, they become more confident, more proactive, and more effective advocates for the patients moving through their care. In a system where every day counts and every decision leaves a trace on the pathway, investing in this workforce is not a peripheral concern — it is central to delivering safe, timely, and high-quality cancer care.

What you'll learn 

Module 1: The Cancer Waiting Time Standards (CWTs)

Duration: 2.5 hours (virtual via MST)

• The purpose and significance of Cancer Waiting Time standards
• How adherence to standards improves patient care and outcomes
• Awareness of the datasets used to measure and track CWT performance
• How data is collected, what it represents, and how it is used 
• How performance data informs service delivery and patient pathways 

Module 2: Inside the MDT Engine Room

Duration: 2.5 hours (virtual via MST)

• The purpose and function of the MDT within the cancer pathway
• The MDT's influence on clinical governance and patient experience
• The importance and impact of data accuracy on pathway performance
• The confidence to act as proactive "pathway guardians" within your roles

Module 3: From Tasks to Impact - Introduction to Continuous Improvement

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Duration: 2.5 hours (virtual via MST)

• How day-to-day decisions directly affect cancer waiting times and patient experience
• Where delays commonly occur within cancer pathways
• The confidence to identify problems and escalate appropriately
• How to implement small, practical improvements within your role

What you'll gain

⚠️ Before you apply, please note: You are welcome to undertake all or whichever modules are applicable to you. However, you will need manager approval prior to booking.

 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