What is professional development?
According to CPD UK (2021), Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is the phrase used to describe learning events employees undertake which increase and enhance skills. CPD fosters a proactive approach to developing the self professionally. CPD includes various learning opportunities such as attending accredited programmes, non-accredited opportunities, workshops, seminars, attendance at conferences and events, engaging in online and blended learning options and idea sharing.
What types of events are on offer?
CPD opportunities may include single accredited modules, workshops, seminars and training sessions offered throughout the year and include those during Professional Development Days in February and May. CPD Opportunities are offered via the CPD Office, the HR Office, the Research Support Unit, the Centre for Technology Enhanced Learning (CTEL), the School of Education & Lifelong Learning, the Health & Safety Office and others through school’s and functions and which are free to attend.
How do I attend?
Staff should discuss their intention to undertake accredited CPD options. If there is no issue, staff should follow the required process of registering/expressing an interest in attending these type of CPD options.
If staff are ordinarily working during the period in which non-accredited CPD opportunities are scheduled to take place, staff should inform their manager of their interest to attend, the date and time, so their manager is aware the staff member will not be working on their core duties at that time. Attendance will take into account the need for business continuity. If there is no issue, staff should follow the required process of registering/expressing an interest in attending these type of CPD options.