<p>A fundamental aim of the NHS Cancer Plan (2000) is to improve the experience of care for patients with cancer, an objective that is supported by an appropriately trained workforce (Department of Health 2000). This article describes the design and implementation of a palliative care education programme for district and community based nurses by three independently functioning specialist palliative care teams. The result is a well-evaluated course and the advancement of joint practice working across a cancer network.</p>