Continuing professional development (CPD) is a requirement for trainers operating in most regulated sectors in the UK, but the specific requirements vary significantly depending on the awarding body, professional body, and sector in which a trainer operates. This guide provides an overview of the key CPD requirements that UK trainers need to be aware of.
Awarding Body Requirements
Most awarding bodies that accredit first aid, health and safety, and other workplace training courses require trainers to demonstrate ongoing CPD as a condition of maintaining their trainer registration. Typical requirements include a minimum number of CPD hours per year (usually 10–20 hours), evidence of subject knowledge currency, and attendance at awarding body update events.
Professional Body Standards
Trainers who are members of professional bodies such as the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) or the Learning and Performance Institute (LPI) are subject to those bodies' CPD requirements. CIPD members are required to complete a minimum of 30 hours of CPD per year, while LPI members must complete 20 hours.
What Counts as CPD?
CPD activities for trainers typically include: attending training courses or conferences; reading professional journals and research publications; participating in peer learning groups or communities of practice; delivering training in new subject areas; and undertaking formal qualifications. Most awarding bodies accept a broad range of CPD activities, provided they are relevant to the trainer's practice and properly documented.
Documenting Your CPD
Trainers should maintain a CPD log that records the activity, the date, the number of hours, and a brief reflection on what was learned and how it will be applied in practice. Many professional bodies provide CPD log templates, and some awarding bodies require CPD logs to be submitted as part of the annual registration renewal process.