The delivery of high quality care to patients with cancer and their family and friends is a priority for healthcare teams. E-learning offers one possible mode of educating professionals in the workplace. However, its use and impact is currently under-researched. This article describes the evaluation of an e-learning programme specific to the care of patients with oesophageal cancer in terms of its potential to inform non-specialist nurses in two separate wards in the South West of England, and its perceived effect on patient care delivery. We also measured knowledge and skill development in practice after use of the programme using multiple choice questions and quantitative vignette methodology.