If you would like to be kept up-to-date with the courses we run throughout the year, please sign up to receive our regular newsletters.
Our booking terms and conditions can be found here
We are pleased to confirm that we will be freezing our prices until April 2027. Depending on your circumstances it may be possible to access grants to support you with payment of course fees. If you are interested in exploring this, we can provide a list of potential grant funders who have previously supported our learners.
FREE – A Fulfilled Life – The Final Chapter – Spinal Injuries Association elearning
E-Learning course
Over recent years it has become apparent that spinal cord injured (SCI) people who are coming to the end of their lives are sometimes being nursed in hospices or hospitals which have limited knowledge or experience in caring for people with SCI. This course aims to address this knowledge gap for healthcare professionals and provides you with information about both SCI and end of life care.
We are delighted to present this course which has been developed by sia specialist nurses in collaboration with Princess Alice Hospice and has been kindly sponsored by Spinal Injuries Association (SIA) member Mary Tye.
Elearning course on Spinal Injuries Association website, accessible any time
For more information about this subject please contact [email protected] or Spinal Injuries Association directly
Once you have signed up for the course and received your log in details you will be able to access essential learning about this sensitive topic whenever you need it.
Helping Children and Young People before and after the Death of a Significant Adult
Training on request only
This training course can be tailor-made for your school or organisation depending on your requirements. We have found it works well on INSET days and can be anything from a 1 hour talk to a full day training. It will be facilitated by one of our experienced family social workers.
To discuss potential training, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course for?
Anyone working with children and young people, e.g. teachers and learning support workers, nurses and healthcare assistants, social workers, foster carers, youth workers, scout and guide leaders.
What will I learn?
Through experiential learning the course can cover:
- Understanding children and young people’s experiences of grief
- Recognise the impact of anticipated and sudden bereavement on children and young people – including emotional, psychological, social, behavioural and practical challenges.
- Explore ways to prepare children and young people for an anticipated death.
- Develop confidence in communicating about death and dying.
- Identify and respond to the individual needs or bereaved children and young people
- Recognise signs that additional support may be needed.
- Understand safeguarding responsibilities and professional boundaries
- Optional activities for children and young people that enable discussions
Due to the nature of this session, it is not suitable for people who have suffered a recent bereavement.
Feedback
“Everything was covered in detail, with chances to discuss further. The skills learnt will give me the confidence to know I am saying and doing the right thing”
“A really informative and insightful course”
“I really enjoyed the creative activities. It will help me in my teaching”
Compassionate Care at the End of Life – an introductory course for 16-19 year olds - 28 October 2026
The Princess Alice Hospice is offering another two ‘Compassionate Care at End of Life’ courses in 2026. One in the Summer and another in Autumn. The course is designed to provide students with some key learning around health and social care in the palliative care setting.
Dates & Times
- Wednesday 28 October 2026, 1.30pm – 4.30pm at Princess Alice Hospice
- Thursday 29 October 2026, 1.30pm – 4.30pm at Princess Alice Hospice
- Friday 30 October 2026, 1.30pm – 4.30pm at Princess Alice Hospice
Attendance at all three sessions is compulsory.
Fee
£50 – accepted applicants will be given a link to pay to confirm their place.
We believe education should be available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstances.
If cost is a barrier, we warmly invite you to apply — no questions asked, no explanation needed. Our goal is to make our learning community welcoming and inclusive, reaching people from all backgrounds and communities.
Light refreshments included
Facilitators
Princess Alice Hospice Education Team
Applications for the Autumn course has now closed.
Location
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
Contact us
If you have any queries, please call our education team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is this course aimed at?
Students need to be 16 to 19 in college or sixth form education to apply.
This course is for those considering a career in health or social care and who would like to learn what excellent End of Life care is all about. You will get the unique opportunity to learn about the many different career avenues within the field of palliative care; from physiotherapy, nursing, speech and language therapy, to social work and medical jobs. We are very proud of the standard of care we provide for our patients and their families and we would love the opportunity to show you what a difference excellent care can make at end of life.
This could be the springboard to your future career!
What will I learn?
- To understand the values and principles which underpin excellent health and social care
- To identify the key tasks of health and social care professionals who work in end-of-life care
- To be able to identify the main themes of end-of-life care in a hospice setting
- To learn about health and care from a patient perspective
- Putting death and dying on the map – getting comfortable with the language and themes
How do I apply?
Complete the online application by using the ‘Book Here’ button below.
Applications for the Autumn course are now closed.
Feedback
“I have had such an eye opening experience and will take away good attributes from this course. I really appreciate how welcoming all of the staff were and how welcomed I felt. I have learnt so much in the 3 days I’ve been here”
“The staff were really really friendly and nice. They made the course really engaging and fun and really demonstrated that the hospice really is a nice place”
“Thank you for the experience and I have learned lots of new things that I can now teach other people”
“The course has inspired me to research more into health and social care careers”
“This course definitely made me look into a job evolving patient care. Thank you for the amazing experience”
“It has given me better insight on healthcare, with the challenges and strengths respectively. Thank you for having me!”
The path to empathic and effective communication - 4 November 2026
The session offers participants opportunity to identify difficult conversations, explore communication skills and to develop their own specific tool kit through a range of communication-based exercises. Attendees will leave with course materials with materials which will include their own personal tool kit and areas that they want to further develop.
Dates & Times
2026
- Wednesday 04 November 2026: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100
2027
- Wednesday 12 May 2027: 13.30 – 16:30 = £100
- Thursday 11 November 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
Fees
£100
Location
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
Contact us
If you have any queries, please call our education team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course for?
This interactive, half day training is recommended for all staff across health and social care.
What will I learn?
- Develop a toolkit of communication skills
- Consider empathy as a fundamental of communication skill
- Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of body language in communication
- Identify and demonstrate the tools of effective communication
- Consider your own “toolkit” and how empathy can be expressed within healthcare practice
Feedback
“I will try to be less of a problem solver and more of an active listener.”
“The course gave me some further insights/reminders into body language and silences”
[Learn’t about] “empathetic communication. Lots of food for thought”
Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Study Day - 5 November 2026
Please join us for our annual Princess Alice Hospice Motor Neurone Disease (MND) study day. Research shows that for people with MND, a cohesive multidisciplinary team results in coordinated care and better quality of life. Our study day aims to bring health and social care professionals together to build expertise for the benefit of people with MND and their families.
Date and Time
Thursday 5th November 2026
This is a full day course, however it will be split into a Morning and Afternoon sessions. Individuals can either book onto the full day course, or the morning/afternoon session, depending on their availability and which session will be of most benefit to them.
Fee
£180 – Full Day Attendance (09:00 – 16:30)
£100 – Morning (09:00 – 13:00) or Afternoon (13:30 – 16:30) Attendance
Refreshments
Light refreshments provided
Lunch only provided to those who book onto the full day.
Facilitator
Lorraine Carter
Location
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
Contact us
If you have any queries, please call our education team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
- Healthcare professionals working in the acute, community or third sector who support people with motor neurone disease
Topics covered:
Subject to minor changes
- An overview of Motor Neurone Disease
- Respiratory assessment and care for patients with MND
- Living with MND – changing the conversation and advances in research
- Supporting eating, drinking and nutrition in MND
- Supporting communication in MND
- Withdrawal of assisted ventilation at the request of a patient with MND
Speakers include:
Ereshini Bhoola, Clinical Specialist Occupational Therapist
Compass Assistive and Rehabilitation Technology Service Royal Hospital for Neurodisability
Sarah
Community Support Coordinator
Motor Neurone Disease Association
Gemma Pengelly-Marshall
Senior Dietician
Princess Alice Hospice
Juliet Lawson
Senior Speech and Language Therapist
Princess Alice Hospice
Dr. Emily Sills
Consultant in Palliative Medicine & Medical Director
Princess Alice Hospice
Feedback
“I feel better informed to support patients and inform them of choices and when to signpost to further care”
“Just a really informative day”
“More confidence working with MND patients in the community. Able to sign post my patients and relatives more effectively”
“Gained more knowledge in NIV withdrawal and the role of MDT”
Symptom Management at the End of Life - 10 November 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Tuesday 10 November 2026: 09.30 – 12.30 – £100
2027
- Wednesday 28 April 2027: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100
- Tuesday 09 November 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
Course Format
Face to Face sessions will be held at Princess Alice Hospice, West End Lane, Kt10 8NA
Fees
£100
Facilitator
Carole Cousins
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
KT10 8NA
Find us here
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
Ideal for nurses but also beneficial for paramedics and doctors who support palliative care patients. If you are unsure if this course is suitable then contact [email protected]
What will I learn from this course?
On completion of this workshop you will be able to:
- Assess and manage common symptoms at the end of life e.g. pain, nausea and vomiting, dyspnoea, delirium, seizures
- Explore the management of diabetes at end of life
- Consider both pharmacological and non-pharmacological management.
- Perform opioid calculations (e.g. breakthrough doses, changing from oral to subcutaneous)
Feedback
“I enjoyed the course. I found it very useful. I will use the skills gained with each palliative support visit I do”
“A very informative course! Thank you”
“I enjoyed the session so much. I can help the team better now dealing with palliative patients carrying the knowledge I gained today”
Assessing and Recording Mental Capacity - 12 November 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Thursday 12 November 2026: 09.30 – 12.30 = £100 (Face to Face)
2027
- Tuesday 27 April 2027: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100 (Face to Face)
- Wednesday 08 September 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100 (Online via Zoom)
Course format
Please check above dates for details.
This course may be delivered as either a Face to Face course at the Princess Alice Hospice, West End Lane, Esher, Surrey, KT10 8NA, or online via Zoom.
Facilitators
Lorraine Carter, Sophie Hanley
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
KT10 8NA
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is this workshop recommended for?
All clinical staff who may be involved in assessing capacity
What will I learn from the Assessing and recording capacity workshop?
On completion of this workshop you will be able to:
- Describe the process of making an assessment of capacity
- Explain the guiding principles of working with capacity and the Mental Capacity Act 2005
- Demonstrate an understanding of how to provide evidence to support your decision
- Describe how to accurately and clearly record a capacity assessment
Feedback
“This was excellent – the course covered everything I was expecting”
“The facilitators were very thorough and made us feel comfortable throughout the session”
“Very useful, and very comprehensive”
“This was very useful for my everyday work as a nurse in a nursing home. I will be able to identify and assess my residents accurately”
Syringe Pumps in End-of-Life Care – Refresher Course - 12 November 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Thursday 12 November 2026: 14.00 – 15.00 = £40
2027
- Monday 18 January 2027: 10:00 – 11:00 = £40
- Tuesday 13 April 2027: 14:00 – 15:00 = £40
- Wednesday 15 September 2027: 11:00 – 12:00 = £40
- Thursday 11 November 2027: 14:00 – 15:00 = £40
Course Format
This course will be delivered via Zoom. Please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Zoom meeting id and password with be emailed to participants prior to the session.
Facilitators
Carole Cousins
This course will be delivered via Zoom. Please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Zoom meeting id and password with be emailed to participants prior to the session.
If you have any queries, please call our education team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
Qualified nurses and doctors who have previously attended the full training session and are familiar with using syringe pumps in end-of-life care (for example the Mckinley T34 / Bodyguard syringe pump) and require an update on how to use the pump.
What will I learn from this course?
The use of subcutaneous ambulatory syringe pumps is essential to controlling symptoms in palliative care.
On completion of this workshop, you will be able to:
Set up and monitor an end-of-life care syringe pump (Mckinley T34 and Bodyguard pump)
Troubleshoot for problems encountered whilst administering drugs via the syringe pump
Please note that all participants will require access to working pump and 20 or 30mls syringe.
If you need more detailed learning on Syringe Pumps – please see the full course here
Please note: Competency must be assessed by your place of work in accordance with your organisation’s policy.
Feedback
“The training was concise, informative and interactive. Thank you”
“This was such a good syringe update, really well taught at the right pace and easy to follow”
“It’s good to be updated with the syringe pump, I will be able to use it confidently with my residents”
Male Catheterisation - 18 November 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Wednesday 18 November 2026: 09.00 – 12.30 – £100
2027
- Thursday 14 January 2027: 09:00 – 12:30 = £100
- Tuesday 20 April 2027: 09:00 – 12:30 = £100
- Wednesday 24 November 2027: 09:00 – 12:30 = £100
Course Format
Due to the nature of this training, the session will be run Face to Face.
Refreshments
Light refreshments
Facilitator
Jon Sions
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team on:
01372 461844
[email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
Registered nurses who are competent in female catheterisation
What will I learn from this course?
Delegates will gain the practical and theoretical framework to perform male catheterisation.
The course covers professional and legal issues, anatomy of the male genito-urinary system, catheter selection, infection control guidance, the principles of catheter management and catheter removal. Practical training is provided using a catheterisation simulator and candidates are given a workbook and competency document for completion in their workplace.
Key learning points.
- Indications for catheterisation.
- Anatomy and physiology of the male GU system.
- Catheter management and infection control.
Please note: Competency must be assessed by your place of work in accordance with your organisation’s policy.
Feedback
“The course covered everything really well and it was all explained really well. A brilliant session”
“It was was really comprehensive and informative. I’ll now be implementing a more up to date policy within the home”
“An enjoyable, interactive and engaging study session”
Venepuncture and Phlebotomy - 18 November 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Wednesday 18 November 2026: 13.00 – 16.30 – £100
2027
- Thursday 14 January 2027: 13.00 – 16.30 = £100
- Tuesday 20 April 2027: 13.00 – 16.30 = £100
- Wednesday 24 November 2027: 13.00 – 16.30 = £100
Course Format
Due to the nature of this training, the session will be run Face to Face.
Fees
£100
Refreshments
Light refreshments
Facilitators
Jon Sions
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the venepuncture and phlebotomy course recommended for?
Healthcare assistants and registered nurses
What will I learn from this venepuncture and phlebotomy course?
The course covers professional and legal issues, anatomy of the arm, infection control guidance, potential complications and contraindications and safe disposal of equipment. Practical training is provided using a phlebotomy training arm and delegates are given a workbook and competency document for completion in their workplace.
Key learning points.
- Identify blood collection equipment.
- Selection of sites for venepuncture.
- Venepuncture for blood culture.
Please note: Competency must be assessed by your place of work in accordance with your organisation’s policy.
Feedback
“The course was presented very well, candidates were given plenty of time to practice and ask questions. The tutor made the session fun and kept our attention well throughout the course”
“Superb training day, very experienced trainer. An excellent approach and addressed all levels of expertise making it easy to ask questions”
“It was a very enjoyable and highly informative course”
Verification by Nurse of Expected Death (VOED) - 25 November 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Wednesday 25 November 2026: 10.00 – 11.00 = £40
2027
- Wednesday 20 January 2027: 14:00 – 15:00 = £40
- Tuesday 09 March 2027: 14:00 – 15:00 = £40
- Wednesday 19 May 2027: 14:00 – 15:00 = £40
- Thursday 08 July 2027: 11:00 – 12:00 = £40
- Tuesday 14 September 2027: 14:00 – 15:00 = £40
- Wednesday 24 November 2027: 10:00 – 11:00 = £40
Course Format
This course will be delivered via Zoom. Please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Zoom meeting ID and password will be emailed to individuals prior to the training.
Facilitator
Carole Cousins
Course Format
This course will be delivered via Zoom. Please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Zoom meeting ID and password will be emailed to individuals prior to the training.
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
Registered nursing staff who have management support to verify expected death in their place of work.
What will I learn from this course?
The legal framework governing verification of expected death, differences between verification and certification, practical procedures and safe practice.
Please note: Competency must be assessed by your place of work in accordance with your organisation’s policy.
Feedback
“The training is very relevant with good presentation”
“The training has provided me with confidence and competence to verify death”
“The course was very informative, with clear outcomes. Thank you for your time!”
Stronger together – Collaboration, Innovation and Research in Out of Hours End-of-Life Care Provision - 2 December 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Wednesday 02 December: 16.30 – 20.00 = £40 per person
2027
- Wednesday 01 December 2027: 17:00 – 20:00 = £40 per person
Light buffet and refreshments included
Course format
This training course will be run Face to Face
Facilitators
Carole Cousins Practice Educator – Community Outreach
Alice Firth Research Lead Princess Alice Hospice
Matthew Vokes, Paramedic and Care Educator-Community Outreach
Princess Alice Hospice, West End Lane, Esher, Surrey, KT10 8NA
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Join colleagues from across Surrey and London for a collaborative session focused on improving out-of-hours palliative and end-of-life care. This event provides a unique opportunity to learn from one another, share experiences, strengthen professional networks, and explore the latest research and evidence shaping practice.
Through expert presentations and interactive discussions, participants will gain insight into current challenges and innovations in out-of-hours care, helping to improve outcomes for patients and their families.
Who is the session recommended for?
What will I learn?
- Explore the latest research and evidence relating to out-of-hours palliative and end-of-life care.
- Understand the services and support available to help prevent inappropriate hospital admissions.
- Develop strategies for communicating patients’ needs effectively when referring to or accessing out-of-hours services.
- Connect with local out-of-hours professionals and gain a better understanding of their roles and services.
SAGE & THYME® – Foundation level communication course - 3 December 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Thursday 03 December 2026: 13.30 – 16.30 = £100 (Face-to-Face)
2027
- Tuesday 12 January 2027: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100 (Online via Zoom)
- Wednesday 24 March 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100 (Face-to-Face)
- Thursday 10 June 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100 (Online via Zoom)
- Monday 27 September 2027: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100 (Face-to-Face)
- Tuesday 07 December 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100 (Face-to-Face)
Course format:
We will be running a mix of formats for our SAGE & THYME® courses going forward, with some of our courses being run Face to Face at our Hospice Education Suite and others running online via zoom. Over the last 18 months we have realised that each of the formats suits different candidates, so want to continue to offer the flexibility.
Check above dates to see the course format for each course.
Facilitators
Lorraine Carter
For courses run via Zoom, please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Zoom meeting id and password will be emailed to participants prior to the meeting.
For courses run Face to Face, reminders will be sent closer to the training date, with address and room details for the Hospice.
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
All clinical and non-clinical staff including volunteers who, through the course of their work, come into contact with people in distress.
What will I learn from this course?
The SAGE & THYME® evidence-based mnemonic has been developed as a national initiative, to help health and social care workers to support people with worries/concerns or who are in distress. By the end of the workshop, you should have a structured and memorable approach that you can use to: recognise psychological distress; avoid causing psychological harm; communicate honestly and compassionately; provide person-focused support; and know when you have reached the boundary of your competence.
©University Hospital of South Manchester NHS Foundation Trust
Feedback
“A really useful course – thank you. It was a great mix of practical and small group discussions”
“This is a powerful model to use in everyday life to give confidence to have compassionate conversations with those who are upset”
“I will use the skills gained with patients, friends and family”
Speak Up: A guide to getting your voice heard at work - 9 December 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Tuesday 09 December 2026: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100
2027
- Wednesday 17 March 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
- Wednesday 17 November 2027: 13.30 – 16:30 = £100
Format
Face to Face
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
KT10 8NA
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is this course for?
Learning Outcomes:
- Examine what makes a team a challenging place to be
- Identify what your inner critic is saying to you
- Know how to improve your personal presence in meetings
- Be able to make your point clearly and without apologising
FREE – Become a Dementia Friend (Remote Learning) - 14 December 2026
Become a Dementia Friend – Helping to create dementia-friendly communities
This 60-minute session via Zoom is for anyone interested in increasing their awareness of dementia and to help change the way that society thinks, talks and acts about dementia.
Course dates and times:
- Monday 14 December 2026: 15.00 – 16.00
Fee
The session is open to all and provided free of charge on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society
This course will be delivered via Zoom, please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is it for :
This one hour session via Zoom is for anyone interested in increasing their awareness of dementia and to help change the way that society thinks, talks and acts about dementia.
The session is open to all and provided free of charge on behalf of the Alzheimer’s Society
What will I learn:
People with dementia want to carry on going about their daily lives and feeling included in their local community, but they sometimes need a helping hand to do so.
The session will help attendees understands a bit more about what it’s like to live with dementia and the little ways they can help.
We also run this course Face-to-Face.
Face-to-Face Course times:
- Dates for 2025 tbc. Email [email protected] if you would prefer face to face training.
Syringe pumps in end-of-life care – why and how to use them in palliative care (3 hour course) - 15 December 2026
Dates, Times and Fees
2026
- Tuesday 15 December 2026: 09.30 – 12.30 – £100
2027
- Wednesday 03 February 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
- Thursday 20 May 2027: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100
- Wednesday 29 September 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
- Wednesday 08 December 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
Course Format
This course will be delivered Face to Face at the Princess Alice Hospice, West End Lane, Esher, KT10 8NA.
Facilitators
Carole Cousins
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
If you have any queries, please call our education team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
Qualified nurses or doctors who are unfamiliar with the syringe pumps (for example the Mckinley T34 / Bodyguard syringe pump) and want to use syringe pumps for palliative care patients.
What will I learn from this course?
The use of subcutaneous ambulatory syringe pumps is essential to controlling symptoms in palliative care.
On completion of this workshop, you will be able to:
- Discuss with patients and their families the reasons for administration of drugs using a syringe pump
- Describe the uses of syringe pumps in palliative care
- Discuss the drugs commonly used at the end of life
- Set up and monitor an end-of-life care syringe pump (Mckinley T34 and Bodyguard T pump)
- Obtain a classroom competency
Please note that syringe pumps will be available for candidates to use.
If you think all you need is a quick refresher on Syringe Pumps instead – please click here
Please note: Competency must be assessed by your place of work in accordance with your organisation’s policy.
Feedback
“It was perfect. I will use this knowledge in managing my patients better”
“A very informative session which covers all areas”
“It was thorough and fantastic, as training always is!”
Leadership & Management Course for Specialty Registrars and SAS Doctors in Palliative Medicine - 12 January 2027
In partnership with St Christopher’s Hospice, the leadership and management course is for senior specialty trainees and SAS doctors in palliative medicine, based in the UK. The course has been running since 2003, and we have now trained over 523 delegates from the United Kingdom and Ireland.
Feedback from attendees is overwhelmingly positive, and most who come do so because of recommendations from previous course members.
Course dates
The course runs over 5 days starting 12 January 2027
- Tuesday 12 January 2027
- Wednesday 13 January 2027
- Thursday 14 January 2027
- Wednesday 27 January 2027
- Thursday 28 January 2027
Each session will start at 9am and finish at 4pm
To complete the course, you must attend each of the five online sessions.
Fees
£983 plus VAT
Facilitators
Princess Alice Hospice and St Christopher’s Hospice work together in partnership to provide this course
Delivered entirely online, the programme offers flexibility to learn, collaborate, and enhance your leadership skills from wherever you are.
To enrol on the course, please email St Christophers Hospice directly at [email protected].
When you email please provide your ST level and CCT/proposed CESR date, if this is applicable to your role.
The main course will comprise of a blended programme of facilitated, structured and interactive online learning sessions over 5 days split into separate modules.
Who is the course for?
This course is open to Palliative medicine ST6/7 (ST5/6 2010 curriculum) SAS doctors, and early consultants in palliative medicine based in the United Kingdom.
What will I learn?
- Building effective management skills and abilities
- Enhancing practical management skills
- Addressing current curriculum training requirements
Upon successful completion, participants will receive 20-25 Category 1 (External) CPD credits accredited by the Federation of the Royal Colleges of Physicians.
Feedback
“Excellent tools and a wide range of speakers with a wealth of experience”
“Having started in a place where I thought I might not have the same skills as my peers, I know feel much more confident and reassured, which is so great.”
“This course has been really helpful for me as I embark on my new role as a specialist doctor, I feel much more aware and prepared for the challenges and approaches that will be useful to take forward to support this role.”
Lunch & Learn – Advanced Palliative Care Practice – starting again in 2027 - 19 January 2027
A programme of ten, online, 45-minute education sessions created to enhance your palliative care knowledge on key topics, provided by the experienced Princess Alice Hospice medical team.
Dates and time
Programme of sessions run from January 2027 to November 2027
All sessions will run from 12:15 – 13:00 on Tuesday’s.
Course Fees
£50 per person for ALL session across the year.
Facilitators
Medical Team from Princess Alice Hospice
This course will be run via Zoom and will be recorded. Recordings are available for approx 6 weeks after the session.
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is this programme for?:
Suitable for experienced qualified healthcare staff who care for patients at the end of their life e.g. GP’s, clinical nurse specialists, paramedics, physician associates.
What will I learn?
19 January 2027: Prescribing at the end of life
- Understand common medications prescribed at the end of life and dosages
- Understand the impact of co-morbidities on prescribing end of life medications
- Gain knowledge of prescribing in specific conditions e.g. seizures, mental health conditions
23 February 2027 : Recognition of dying
- Understand the different disease trajectories
- Gain knowledge of signs and symptoms of someone in the last days of life
- Understand your responsibilities as a healthcare professional
23 March 2027: Palliative Care Emergencies
- Understand the symptoms and presentations of palliative care emergencies
- Gain knowledge of management of the following:
- Malignant spinal cord compression
- Hypercalcaemia
- Superior vena cava obstruction
- Massive terminal haemorrhage
20 April 2027: Management of pain within palliative care – Opioids
- Understand the different types of pain
- Understand the role of total pain
- Gain knowledge of different opioids available and when to use
- Understand the difference with managing chronic pain vs pain in palliative care
11 May 2027: Communication in palliative and end of life care
- Explore the key principles of effective communication in palliative and end-of-life care using the HELP communication model (Here and now, Explore, Listen, Plan)
- Identify common communication challenges encountered in palliative care, including uncertainty, emotions and differing expectations
- Understand how communication supports advance care planning and patient-centred decision-making
29 June 2027: Management of neuropathic pain in palliative care
- Understand how neuropathic pain differs from nociceptive pain
- Gain knowledge of common medications used in neuropathic pain
- Gain knowledge of management of neuropathic pain at end of life
20 July 2027: Management of nausea and vomiting in palliative care
- Understand the physiology of nausea and vomiting
- Gain knowledge of medications used in nausea and vomiting
- Understand the management of resistant nausea
- Gain knowledge of the management of hiccups
21 September 2027: Management of breathlessness and secretions in palliative care
- Understand the pathophysiology behind the sensation of breathlessness
- Have non-pharmacological strategies to use with patients
- Understand pharmacological options for managing breathlessness
- Understand how to manage breathlessness and secretions at the end of life
12 October 2027: Bereavement in palliative and end of life care
- Describe common bereavement responses and the wide range of normal grief experiences.
- Understand contemporary bereavement models and how they can inform person-centred support.
- Recognise risk factors for complicated or prolonged grief and their implications for patient care
23 November 2027: Management of organ failure in palliative care
- Recognise when people with renal, liver and heart failure may be approaching end of life
- Understand medication considerations in renal and liver failure
- Gain knowledge of management of common symptoms in end stage renal, liver and heart failure
The format of each of the sessions will be 25- 30 min presentation with case studies then time for group discussion and questions.
Feedback
“Fantastic session; clear, concise and very useful”
“These short, monthly sessions are a great idea. Thank you!”
“Very good course content in the short allocated time”
FREE – Talking about death and dying and how it can HELP - 8 February 2027
Short, online introductory session to consider why it is important to talk openly about death and dying.
Dates & Times
- Monday 08 February 2027: 10:00 – 11:00 = FREE
- Thursday 14 October 2027: 10:00 – 11:00 = FREE
Fees
This course is free to attend but registration is essential
Location
This course will be delivered via Zoom.
Contact us
If you have any queries, please call our education team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
This short session is aimed at anyone interested in opening up conversations about dying and why these conversations can be so significant.
What will I learn from this course?
- Consider why it is important to talk openly about death and dying
- Explore the potential reluctance and rewards of doing this
- Discuss a model that can support these conversations HELP
Feedback
“More prepared for conversations surrounding death in both a professional and personal level.”
[I now have more] “conversation starters”
“The session allowed for a different perspective to be shown on the topic”
Advanced Communication Skills (2-day course) – Blended learning (REMOTE) model - 24 February 2027
Effective communication is fundamental to good quality patient care. This course will explore challenging communication issues from the participant’s practice.
Course date and times:
- Wednesday 24 February & Thursday 25 February 2027: 09:00-14:30
- Wednesday 23 June & Thursday 24 June 2027: 09:00-14:30
- Wednesday 06 October & Thursday 07 October: 09:00-14:30
Attendance on both days is compulsory. E-learning will open in 1 month before course starts. Please see course details below.
Fees
£750
Facilitator
Lorraine Carter
In partnership with Frontline Communications
Location
This course is conducted remotely via Zoom.
Contact us
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844 or email: [email protected]
Who is the course recommended for?
Senior health care professionals (band 6 or equivalent and above)
What will I learn from this course?
Effective communication is fundamental to good quality patient care. This course will explore challenging communication issues from the participant’s practice.
By the end of the course you will be able to:
- Examine your personal response to areas of communication which you find especially challenging
- Use active listening skills to identify and respond to cues
- Support patients, families and colleagues to define and voice their concerns
- Give information in ways which are tailored to the needs of each individual
- Demonstrate skills in navigating a path through important conversations, towards an agreed and shared ending
E-Learning:
- Access to online platform 4 weeks prior to online workshop
- Takes 2 hours online e-learning
- Phone or Laptop, do your eLearning in breaks, travel or home, with most sessions under 10mins each
Preparation for online workshop with facilitator:
- 20min 1-2-1 with course facilitator to discuss learning objective and role-play scenario
- Takes place 1-2 weeks before online workshop
- Booked through online platform
2 day online workshop:
- Approx 5 hours per day – 8.30am – 3pm
- Theory and role play with actors
Requirements:
- Study-leave
- Access to broadband for the 2 days
- Desktop or laptop computer recommended, phone not recommended
- Cameras will need to be on at all times
- A private / confidential space (headphones & microphone if unable to assure privacy)
PLEASE NOTE; Your place is not confirmed until you receive written confirmation from us directly.
Feedback
“[The actors] really enabled you to feel in the moment and it felt as real as possible. Was nice to have feedback and was very powerful/ emotive. Thank you”
“Well run and lovely people made me feel comfortable in learning and was a very supportive environment”
“I feel that I have grown in confidence with my communication skills and it has given me tools like the power of silence, validation of patients feelings, pauses, mirroring and has enabled me to improve my listening skills”
“It is not about religion!” Spiritual care for an evolving generation - 4 March 2027
This session encourages us to treat ‘spirituality’ in its broadest (non-religious) sense, it demystifies spirituality and explores ways spiritual distress is commonly experienced by people approaching the end of life.
Dates, Times and Fees
- Thursday 4 March 2027, 9.30 – 16.30 – £180 per person
Course Format
This course will be run Face to Face.
Facilitators
Steve Nolan
Location
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
Contact us
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is the course for?
Health care staff; physicians, nurses, care workers, social workers. Also suitable for chaplains, clergy and pastoral carers.
What will I learn?
This session encourages us to treat ‘spirituality’ in its broadest (non-religious) sense, it demystifies spirituality and explores ways spiritual distress is commonly experienced by people approaching the end of life. We will consider ‘total pain’ and outline a person-centred way in which healthcare professionals can respond to spiritual distress, without adding to an already overloaded working day.
By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Understand how spiritual care differs from religious care
- Be able to identify four different categories of spiritual distress
- Be able to use an evidence-based tool to screen for spiritual distress
- Understand how to integrate spiritual care into clinical practice
- Increase your level of spiritual care literacy
Feedback
“…reflections on how spiritual care works with psychosocial teams that could lead to a change in practice for me, as well as a focus on early intervention.”
“I will be more conscious about good spiritual care in my future practice and teaching sessions”
“Being more confident in initiating conversations around spirituality”
New Revised Six Steps Programme for Care Homes - 11 March 2027
We have reviewed the Six Steps Programme to be more engaging and interactive!
Dates and Times
The programme is delivered using a blended approach, combining online meetings and face-to-face workshops
- Discovery meeting – 1 hour online meeting to discover the individual needs of your care home
- Workshop 1 – Full-day, face-to-face workshop at Princess Alice Hospice, focusing on Steps 1–3 of the Six Steps in end of life care
- Workshop 2 – Full-day, face-to-face workshop at Princess Alice Hospice, focusing on Steps 4-6 of the Six Steps in end of life care
Includes a guided tour of the hospice, providing a greater understanding of the environment, services and compassionate care provided by the hospice team.
March 2027 Cohort
- 11th March 2027 – 1 hour online discovery meeting – time to be arranged with individual care homes
- 19th March 2027 – Workshop 1 – 09.30-16.30 face to face at the hospice
- 26th March 2027- Workshop 2 – 09.30-16.30 face to face at the hospice
September 2027 Cohort
- 17th September 2027 – 1 hour online discovery meeting – time to be arranged with individual care homes
- 24th September 2027 – Workshop 1 – 09.30-16.30 face to face at the hospice
- 1st October 2027 – Workshop 1 – 09.30-16.30 face to face at the hospice
Fees
£1,200 per care home for 3 members of staff to attend the programme. There is opportunity to send more staff for an additional fee.
Location
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
KT10 8NA
Find Us
Who is this course for?
At the heart of the programme is the nomination of three representatives from each care home to become End of Life Care Champions. It is recommended that one of these representatives is the manager or deputy manager of the home, other representatives should be senior carers or nurses. These champions will gain access to current national and local guidance, develop specialist knowledge and skills, and be supported to share learning within their own organisations.
What will the representatives learn?
The Princess Alice Hospice Six Steps Programme is designed to inspire and empower care home teams to deliver outstanding end of life care through education, collaboration and meaningful organisational change.
The programme supports care homes to build confidence, compassion and expertise in end of life care, enabling staff to provide residents and families with the highest standard of person-centred support at one of life’s most important times.
Delivered over two engaging and interactive days, the programme explores the six key foundations of excellent end of life care:
Step 1 – Discussions as End of Life Approaches
- Building confidence in having compassionate, honest and meaningful conversations with residents and families about future wishes and priorities of care.
Step 2 – Assessment, Care Planning and Review
- Developing personalised, responsive care plans that reflect individual needs, preferences and goals.
Step 3 – Coordination of Care
- Strengthening communication and partnership working across services to ensure seamless, coordinated care.
Step 4 – Delivery of High Quality Care in Care Homes
Enhancing the knowledge, confidence and practical skills needed to provide safe, dignified and compassionate care every day.
Step 5 – Care in the Last Days of Life
Supporting residents and families with sensitive, holistic care during the final days and hours of life.
Step 6 – Care After Death
Promoting respectful care after death while supporting families, loved ones and staff through bereavement and reflection.
To complete programme
A month after the programme ends, each care home will be required to provide tangible evidence of improvement and change, clearly mapped to the CQC Key Lines of Enquiry (Safe, Effective, Caring, Responsive, Well-led). Participants will be guided on how to collect this evidence throughout the programme
On successful completion of the programme care home representatives will be invited to a celebration tea at the hospice.
Care homes that have completed the programme will be invited to join the Six Steps Alumni Network, providing opportunities for continued relationships, shared learning, and ongoing teaching from experts in palliative care .
To book
Please send enquires to [email protected] and Carole Cousins, Practice Educator will give you a call to discuss
European Certificate in Essential Palliative Care (ECEPC) - 12 April 2027
ECEPC course dates and times
Please email [email protected] or contact local centers below for more information.
Spring 2027 – Registration open. (Closes 5th March 2027 or when fully booked)
12 April 2027 – Course launch event – 6.00pm – 7.30pm (UK time)
16 June 2027 – Remote assessment day – 9.30am to 2.00pm (UK time)
Fees – £600
Autumn 2027 – REGISTRATION OPEN (closes 31st July 2027 or when fully booked)
6 September 2027 – Course launch event – 6.00pm – 7.30pm (UK time)
10 November 2027 – Remote assessment day – 9.30am to 2.00pm (UK time)
Fees – £600
Venues:
- Princess Alice Hospice, Esher – [email protected]
- Birmingham Hospice, Birmingham – [email protected]
- Heart of Kent Hospice, Kent – [email protected]
- The Hospice of St Francis, Berkhamsted – [email protected]
- Jersey Hospice Care, Channel Isles – [email protected]
- LOROS Hospice, Leicestershire – [email protected]
- Malta Hospice Movement (Autumn courses only) – [email protected]
- Milford Care Centre, Limerick ROI – [email protected]
- Northern Ireland Hospice, Belfast (Autumn courses only) – [email protected]
- North London Hospice, London – [email protected]
- Severn Hospice, Shrewsbury (Autumn courses only) – [email protected]
- St. Wilfrid’s Hospice, Eastbourne – [email protected]
Course-coordinator: Clare Lawrance
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team on:
01372 461845
[email protected]
Who is the European Certificate in Essential Palliative Care (ECEPC) recommended for?
A highly respected qualification running at a number of sites in addition to Princess Alice Hospice, aimed at healthcare professionals new to palliative care. All participants should have direct contact with patients requiring a palliative approach and care needs.
What methods of learning and teaching will be used?
Nine week distance learning, multi-professional programme, divided into sections:
- What is palliative care and who is it for?
- Symptom issues in palliative care.
- Patients with emergency conditions.
- Patients in the last 48 hours of life.
- Breaking bad news to patients and families.
- Bereavement and support.
- Common ethical issues.
This is a home-based course. All candidates are provided with an extensive course workbook and access to a comprehensive virtual learning site. All candidates are assigned a facilitator to support them through the course. The culmination of the course is the assessment day which is mandatory for all candidates across the sites.
Staff working in hospices in the UK can apply to the Wolfson Foundation or MCF Bursaries (via Hospice UK) to cover part of the cost of this programme. See Hospice UK for more details.
Managing Palliative Care Emergencies - 21 April 2027
Dates, Times and Fees
Wednesday 21 April 2027: 09:30 – 12:30 = £100
Fee:
£100
Facilitator:
Carole Cousins
Format:
Face to face at Princess Alice Hospice
Education Centre
Princess Alice Hospice
West End Lane
Esher
Surrey
KT10 8NA
Who is the course recommended for?
This course is aimed at healthcare professionals caring for people who are approaching or at the end of their lives.
What will I learn from this course?
The aim of this face to face course is to identify the emergency situations listed below that may occur at the end of life, how these can be managed and the effect that they may have on the patient, family and yourself
By the end of this course you will be able to:
- Identify the risk of potential palliative care emergencies based on the patient’s history
- Examine the causes, treatment and management of the following conditions:
- Malignant spinal cord compression (MSCC)
- Superior vena cava obstruction (SVCO)
- Neutropenic sepsis
- Hypercalcaemia
- Bleeding
- Assess the risks versus benefits of treatment, including the patient’s and family’s wishes
- Explore the availability of appropriate interventions in your practice area
- Discuss and reflect on the effect that such conditions may have on the patient, family and you personally
Feedback
“An intellectually stimulating course”
“It was really useful and applicable to my role”
“It was ideal. I will be proactive in identifying patients who are at risk of these emergencies!”
FREE – What is Hospice Care? - 10 May 2027
Course Date & time:
- Monday 10 May 2027: 10:00 – 11:00 = FREE
- Tuesday 14 December 2027: 15:00 – 16:00 = FREE
Course Format:
This course via Zoom. Please ensure you join 10 minutes before the scheduled start time. Zoom meeting id and password will be emailed to participants prior to the meeting.
Fee:
Free session!
Facilitators:
Princess Alice Hospice Education Team
This course will be delivered via Zoom.
If you have any queries, please contact our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is What is Hospice Care? course recommended for?
Anyone including members of the public and health and social care workers. Community groups e.g. Women’s Institutes, church groups, volunteer organisations are particularly welcome.
What will I learn from What is Hospice Care?
Hospice care is well known and respected by the public but what is it?
This session gives you the opportunity to learn about the way hospice care has developed in the UK and what we do here at Princess Alice Hospice to support patients and their families.
Bereavement First Aid: Understanding bereavement to help a grieving person - 5 October 2027
Dates, Times and Fees
- Tuesday 05 October 2027: 13:30 – 16:30 = £100
Course format
This course will be run Face to Face.
Facilitators
Steve Nolan
Princess Alice Hospice
If you have any queries, please call our Education Team.
tel: 01372 461844
email: [email protected]
Who is this training for?
This practically focused session is suitable for anybody working or volunteering in health and social care. Using case studies and immersive activity, participants will learn how grief can affect a bereaved person and gain practical knowledge to enhance their practice. We will introduce key skills in active listening and signpost a range of resources to help support people experiencing different types of loss.
What will I learn from this course?
Using case studies and participant experience, this practical session will explore questions such as:
- What is the recent thinking about bereavement?
- What tools are available to assess if a person is at risk of complicated bereavement?
- How might healthcare workers respond well to those who are bereaved?
- How is bereavement affected by social and cultural context?
- How can healthcare workers self-care and access support
Feedback
“The course had an excellent range of information. I’ve learnt to give people time and space to express themselves”
“I now have an awareness of the bereavement journey”
“This was very informative. I will use the skills gained to support relatives”
Caring words from our community...
Compassion and care are at the heart of what we do. Read what families have shared about their experiences with our hospice.
