The UK's #1 ACST provider. Our award-winning blended learning solution combines e-learning, 1:1 coaching, and a 2-day workshop to deliver exceptional results.
Developed during the Covid-19 pandemic, our innovative three-part approach has produced exceptional results and feedback from participants and clients.
1 month prior to workshop
~1 week prior to workshop
Online or in-person
Don't have the resources or numbers for a full course booking? Our partners offer individual seats on ACST courses powered by FrontLine Communication.
Predictable budgeting for individual places
No need to coordinate dates or full courses
Participants select dates that work for them
King's Health accreditation included
Book individual places on ACST courses through our partnership with Guy's Cancer Academy. Purchase orders processed via Guy's with King's Health accreditation.
Book Through Guy's Cancer Academy"It was well-presented and well-structured. The ACST course has given me the knowledge, confidence, skills, and helpful approaches in uncertainty and difficult situations in my practice."
CNS, King's College Hospital
"I found the course really helpful and feel I truly have learnt a lot about myself and strategies I can use to enhance communications with patients. I wish I had the course sooner!"
Speech and Language Therapist, GCA
"Liv and her colleagues at Frontline Communications are trusted providers. Their experience and expertise means they provide very high-quality training, which is well-evaluated by students."
Dr Verna Lavender, Head of Guy's Cancer Academy UK
Common questions about Advanced Communication Skills Training
ACST is a 3-part blended learning programme for Band 7+ healthcare professionals. It combines e-learning (2-3 hours of videos), individual 1:1 coaching to create personalised scenarios, and a 2-day experiential workshop with professional actors. The course teaches advanced skills for difficult conversations like breaking bad news, managing strong emotions, and navigating challenging patient interactions.
The complete ACST programme spans approximately 5 weeks. E-learning begins 1 month before the workshop (2-3 hours total). Individual coaching calls happen about 1 week prior (30 minutes each). The workshop runs for 2 days with shorter hours (9am-2:30pm) to reduce fatigue and maximise learning.
ACST is designed for Band 7+ healthcare professionals including consultants, registrars, clinical nurse specialists, allied health professionals, and senior clinical staff who regularly have difficult conversations with patients and families. It's particularly valuable for those in oncology, palliative care, critical care, and other specialties involving serious illness discussions.
ACST pricing varies by booking type. Organisations can book whole courses for their teams at a fixed rate. Individuals can book single places through partner organisations like Guy's Cancer Academy. Contact FrontLine Communication directly for current pricing and pay-per-place options through our NHS Trust partners.
Yes, ACST workshops can be delivered online via Zoom or in-person at your organisation. Our online delivery maintains the same quality with experienced Zoom managers ensuring smooth facilitation. Many organisations choose online delivery for flexibility, reduced travel costs, and the ability to include staff from multiple sites.
Book whole courses for your teams or explore pay-per-place options through our partners.