ACST

Advanced Communication Skills Training

The UK's established benchmark in healthcare communication training. As the country's biggest ACST provider, we deliver this prestigious 2-day intensive workshop through our partner organisations.

Where to Book

2-Day Workshop

Intensive training

Small Groups

Maximum 10 participants

Nationally Recognised

UK benchmark qualification

Multiple Locations

Across the UK

About ACST

Advanced Communication Skills Training (ACST) is the gold standard for healthcare communication in the UK. This comprehensive 2-day workshop provides healthcare professionals with advanced techniques for managing complex conversations, breaking bad news, and supporting patients and families through difficult situations.

The FrontLine Blended Learning version of ACST includes 4 weeks of e-learning and a 1:1 coaching session before the workshop, providing additional preparation and personalised support.

As the UK's largest provider of ACST, FrontLine Communication delivers this training through our partner NHS trusts and healthcare organisations. While we don't run our own public courses, several of our clients offer pay-per-place arrangements for individual healthcare professionals from outside their organisations.

What You'll Learn

  • Advanced techniques for breaking bad news and managing difficult conversations
  • Skills for supporting patients and families through emotional distress
  • Strategies for managing your own emotional responses in challenging situations
  • Practical frameworks you can apply immediately in your clinical practice

Where to Book ACST

The following organisations offer FrontLine ACST courses with pay-per-place options for individual healthcare professionals

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre

Clatterbridge Cancer Centre

Liverpool & Wirral& Online

Clatterbridge offer a wide range of training, including several communication skills programmes. They offer our Blended Learning ACST course almost monthly.

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Guys Cancer Academy

Guys Cancer Academy

Online

One of the leading international cancer training organisations offering a wide range of training for healthcare staff, partnering with FrontLine to offer our Blended Learning ACST model.

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OxCERPC Sobell House

OxCERPC Sobell House

Online

The OxCERPC / Sobell House / Kathrine House education organisation run many communication and palliative care courses, with our blended learning ACST the premier communications course on offer.

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Pilgrims Hospices

Pilgrims Hospices

Online

Pilgrims Hospices offer a range of communication skill courses with many provided by FrontLine, including our blended learning ACST. Find all available dates on their platform.

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Sue Ryder

Sue Ryder

Online

Sue Ryder offer a large range of courses, with a dedicated section for healthcare workers. Our blended learning ACST course is now available.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why don't FrontLine run their own ACST courses for individuals?

Our primary business model is delivering bespoke training to healthcare organisations. However, we recognise the demand from individual professionals, which is why we're pleased to work with partner organisations who offer pay-per-place options.

Are these the same courses you deliver to organisations?

Yes! These are the exact same high-quality ACST courses delivered by FrontLine trainers. The only difference is that booking and payment are handled by the host organisation.

Can I attend if I work for a different organisation?

Absolutely. The organisations listed offer places to healthcare professionals from any organisation. Simply book through their website and attend the course at their location.

What if there are no courses near me?

Many of our partners now offer the online version of ACST, which features shorter days and no travel required - this has become the more popular format. We're also continuously expanding our network of partner organisations. Contact us to express your interest, and we'll notify you when new options become available.

Looking for Organisational Training?

If you're enquiring on behalf of your healthcare organisation, we can deliver bespoke ACST courses tailored to your team's needs.

Explore Organisational Training

Have Questions About ACST?

Our team is here to help you find the right ACST course for your professional development needs