Continuing professional development (CPD)

CPD stands for Continuing Professional Development and is the term used to describe the learning activities professionals engage in to develop and enhance their abilities.

CPD is the means by which you can maintain and improve your skills, knowledge and understanding which should have a positive impact upon your practice. It’s not always about attending courses or gaining qualifications. Hopefully this article will give you a few ideas of what you could do this year.

If you are in education, CPD should relate not only to teaching, learning and assessment practices, but also to changes in education policies as well as your specialist subject. This is known as being a ‘dual professional’. You are a professional teacher and assessor as well as a professional in the subject you teach and assess.

How Does CPD Benefit Professionals?

Engaging in CPD allows professionals to stay updated with the latest trends, best practices, and advancements in their field. It enables individuals to enhance their expertise, stay competitive in their careers, and adapt to changes in their industry or sector.

Why is CPD Important in Education?

In education, CPD is crucial for teachers and educators to continuously improve their teaching, learning, and assessment practices. It also extends to staying abreast of changes in education policies and developments within their specialist subject areas. This holistic approach is essential for educators to fulfill their roles as ‘dual professionals.’

What Should CPD Look Like for Education Professionals?

For education professionals, CPD should include a balance between professional development related to teaching methodologies, assessment practices, and educational policies, as well as subject-specific knowledge and expertise. This comprehensive approach ensures educators remain effective in both their pedagogical and subject-related capacities.