Short course
Cervical Screening: Initial Sample Taker Course (RCN Accredited)
This specialist module provides healthcare professionals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to become competent cervical sample takers within the NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP). Designed for those working in primary care and related healthcare settings, the course combines evidence-based learning, practical skills development, and supervised clinical experience to support safe, high-quality, person-centred cervical screening. By completing this module, you will enhance your professional practice, contribute to improving screening outcomes, and play a vital role in the national ambition to prevent and eliminate cervical cancer.
Overview
This specialist module has been developed to support healthcare professionals in gaining the knowledge, clinical skills, and confidence required to undertake cervical sample taking safely and effectively within the NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP). The course is RCN accredited and is designed to prepare learners to provide high-quality, evidence-based, and compassionate cervical screening that supports early detection of cervical abnormalities and contributes to the prevention and elimination of cervical cancer.
The module explores the principles and organisation of the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, including the role of HPV in cervical disease, cervical anatomy and physiology, screening pathways, interpretation of results, and the importance of quality assurance. Learners will develop an understanding of the wider context of cervical screening, including informed consent, communication and consultation skills, supporting individuals with diverse needs, reducing health inequalities, and delivering inclusive, person-centred care.
On successful completion, learners will have developed the skills and confidence required to contribute effectively as a cervical sample taker, enhancing their role within primary care and supporting the delivery of safe, equitable, and high-quality cervical screening services. The module provides a valuable opportunity for continuing professional development and supports healthcare professionals to meet national standards while progressing their specialist practice.
Learning Outcomes
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Evaluate and apply the underpinning theory required to deliver cervical screening and personalised care to work safely and effectively.
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Discuss and critically reflect on the impact of attending colposcopy and the effect on your own practice
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Employ a reflective approach to demonstrate insight and the ability to evaluate your own development and wellbeing in the provision of care and delivery of cervical screening.
Who would benefit?
This module is designed for healthcare professionals working in England who wish to develop the knowledge, clinical skills, and confidence required to undertake cervical sample taking within the NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP).
The course is suitable for eligible UK-registered healthcare professionals employed in England, including registered nurses, nursing associates, midwives, physician associates, medical doctors, paramedics working in primary care, and eligible registered professionals working within integrated sexual health services. Learners must meet NHSCSP eligibility requirements, hold current professional registration with the relevant regulatory body, have employer support, and have access to supervised clinical practice with an approved cervical sample taker mentor.
The module benefits healthcare professionals by supporting the development of specialist skills, confidence, and competence in delivering safe, evidence-based cervical screening. It also benefits patients by supporting access to high-quality, inclusive, and compassionate screening services, improving the experience of individuals attending screening, reducing barriers to participation, and contributing to earlier detection of cervical abnormalities and the prevention of cervical cancer.
By developing a skilled cervical screening workforce, the module supports improved outcomes for individuals, communities, and the wider NHS ambition to eliminate cervical cancer.
Course in depth
skills, and confidence required to undertake cervical sample taking safely and effectively within the NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP). The module supports the development of a competent cervical sample taker workforce and aligns with national education standards, quality assurance requirements, and the wider ambition to improve cervical screening outcomes and contribute to the prevention and elimination of cervical cancer.
Throughout the module, learners will explore the evidence base underpinning cervical screening, including the role of human papillomavirus (HPV) in cervical disease, the development and progression of cervical abnormalities, cervical anatomy and physiology, and the rationale for primary HPV screening. Learners will also develop an understanding of female genital malignancies, recognising the importance of early identification, appropriate assessment, referral pathways, and the role of cervical screening within wider women’s health.
The module will explore the structure and delivery of the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, including screening eligibility, screening intervals, results pathways, laboratory processes, colposcopy services, quality assurance, and clinical governance. Learners will develop an understanding of how cervical screening fits within the wider healthcare pathway and the importance of accurate sample taking in supporting timely diagnosis and management.
What is included?
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Day 1
Introduces learners to the module structure, expectations, and learning journey. The session includes an introduction to the teaching team, course schedule, learner introductions, and establishment of group expectations. Learners will be guided through the NHSCSP training pathway, portfolio requirements, and assessment process, with opportunities to discuss questions and clarify expectations. The session concludes with preparation for Day 2, including directed pre-session reading and completion of an online MCQ to support ongoing learning.
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Day 2
Focuses on the theoretical foundations of safe and effective cervical screening practice. Learners will explore informed consent, including the legal and ethical principles underpinning consent, relevant case law, and application of consent principles within cervical screening consultations.
The session also covers female genital observations, including vulval anatomy, genital tract infections, and the impact of female genital mutilation (FGM) on healthcare provision. Learners will develop awareness of safeguarding responsibilities, legal considerations, and approaches to providing sensitive, inclusive, and person-centred care.
Learners will be introduced to colposcopy services, including referral pathways, assessment, treatment options, patient advice, follow-up, pregnancy considerations, and clinical governance. The epidemiology and natural history of cervical cancer will also be explored, including HPV, cervical cancer risk factors, HPV vaccination, and the impact of cervical cancer on individuals and communities.
The day concludes with an overview of primary cervical screening and cytology processes, including laboratory pathways, sample requirements, HPV testing, cytology, the role of the sample taker, screening outside recall intervals, and updates on self-sampling. Learners will complete post-session activities to consolidate their learning and prepare for the next stage of the module.
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Day 3
Focuses on applying the knowledge gained from the theoretical elements of cervical screening to clinical practice. Learners will explore barriers to cervical screening attendance, eligibility criteria, when screening may need to be delayed, and the professional responsibilities of the cervical sample taker.
The session will cover the importance of effective consultations, including taking an appropriate clinical history, educating and supporting patients, creating a suitable clinical environment, and promoting informed participation in screening. Learners will be introduced to the Cervical Screening Management System (CSMS), cervical anatomy, techniques for locating the cervix, sample-taking procedures, and completing the screening consultation safely and effectively.
A key focus of the day will be practical skills development, with learners practising cervical sample-taking techniques using pelvic mannequins. Learners will also complete the e-Learning for Healthcare (e-LfH) HPV testing module to support their understanding of HPV-based screening and laboratory processes.
Schedule & Location
Session 1: Tuesday 17 November 2026
Session 2: Thursday 26 November 2026
Session 3: Thursday 3 December 2026
Location
Seacole Building, Westbourne Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 3TN
Fees and enrolment
If you're interested in finding out more about this course or would like more information before you enrol, please register your interest and we'll be in touch with more information.