Is CPD part of your professional DNA?

Kate Lou from Morgan Hunt discusses the value of continual professional development for talent to thrive:

The merry go round of legislative changes and standards in education leaves little to debate; that those in the front line must adapt and change as a profession.

Consequently continual professional development (CPD) is mandatory for all those who teach to ensure we are providing the best possible learning experience for our learners and remain current in an ever-changing landscape.

Teachers, lecturers, trainers and assessors are all in the business of education, but how seriously do we take our own personal and professional development?

The one certain is that CPD does matter. It matters that we give the best possible learning experience; it matters that we stay current to new methods of engagement and assessment, and it matters that we achieve the outcomes expected of us. If, as a collective, we don’t make progress how can we ensure that our students will?

The professional standard that educators are encouraged to meet is a minimum of 30hrs of CPD per year. The reality is the focus is heavily geared to the school or college agenda and not the teaching individual. 

So where does the responsibility lie. With the individual or with the organisation?

Although your organisation may determine the kind of CPD that is most suitable to meet needs and requirements, there is also a personal responsibility on the part of professionals to keep their knowledge and skills up to date, so that they can deliver what’s expected.

CPD is an ongoing process and should continue throughout a professional’s career whatever sector you teach in.

Here’s the thing, learning new tricks can bring your mojo back in so many ways. It should be fun, engaging and have a positive, lasting impact on you and your organisation.

Yet, in the quest of knowledge and skill, finding the right kind of training isn’t easy but reflecting on what you want to achieve from CPD is a good place to start an ongoing process.

Top tips for finding the right CPD courses for you

• Define your objectives – reflect on what you want to achieve from your training
• Share your expectations – with colleagues, superiors and your potential trainer
• Seek out feedback – like Trip Advisor, find courses that have great feedback from other participants and peers
• Look into the trainer – Is the trainer experienced in the sector and able to understand your needs

To CPD or not to CPD shouldn’t be a question. CPD raises awareness and understanding of the changes to the sector and encourages educators to continually challenge practice and pedagogy.

Kate Lou, Head of Quality, Morgan Hunt Education