Your quick guide to CPD

As your professional body, IfL is committed to supporting continuing professional development (CPD) as an integral part of your professionalism. Here we answer members’ frequently asked questions in our quick CPD guide below:

What is CPD?

CPD is any activity that contributes to your learning and development. It can be as diverse as having a conversation with a colleague, reading a magazine, watching a TV programme or taking a course or qualification. So much can count as CPD as long as you have reflected on the learning you gained from your activities and it has an impact on your practice. Find more examples of effective CPD activities.

Why do CPD?

Members often tell us “I’d soon be out of date without CPD”. Your commitment to CPD is a part of your professional status and enhances your teaching or training practice.

How and what do I declare?

It’s really quick and easy to tell us about your CPD. You only need declare the CPD hours you have completed and provide a few brief details. You will not need to send in evidence unless selected as part of the random sample for review.

A step-by-step guide on how to declare will be on this website from 1 June when the declaration window opens. In the meantime, you can view IfL reviews of CPD that emerged from previous years' sampling process.

Who needs to declare?

All members need to declare their CPD: Fellows, Members, Associates and Affiliates.

When do I declare?

You declare your CPD between 1 June and 31 August each year.

Why declare?

Professional bodies that give status expect members to carry out CPD. We ask members to keep a note of your CPD and let us know what you have done, using a simple online self-declaration form or REfLECT, IfL’s online personal learning space.

This is not a bureaucratic exercise; by declaring your CPD, you provide evidence of remaining in good professional standing. IfL is also able to share an overview and specific examples of effective practice with other members.

How much do I need to declare?

IfL members are required to undertake a minimum of 30 hours CPD a year (pro rata for part-time teachers and trainers). The guide below is a rough calculation that might be helpful if you change your teaching hours or if teaching/training is just part of your role in an organisation.

Take control

It’s your CPD. Think creatively and don’t forget that informal learning and self-directed activities often lead to the best CPD.