FAQs

What is CPD?

Continuing professional development (CPD) is the term used to describe learning activities undertaken by individuals to develop professional knowledge and skills. CPD refers to the skills, knowledge and experience gained in both formal and informal activities within professional roles. CPD is important to ensure that you are not only maintaining your current skills but also developing them to a new level.

Why do I need to undertake CPD?

CPD helps individuals to manage their own development on an ongoing basis. Recognition of staff using CPD can help aid business models by introducing new opportunities, as well as retaining key skills. CPD can

• help develop and update professional knowledge

• uncover skills gaps

• identify training needs

• recognise an individual achievements

Read more on the NTDC CPD Central page, where you can find out about logging and recording CPD.

What are the key benefits of the CPD process?

• Uncover gaps in your skills and competencies.

• Documented development.

• Learning from experience, reflection and continuous review of skills.

• Set and achieve development goals and objectives.

What are the benefits to the wider team?

We asked technical managers who encourage CPD amongst their colleagues, about the benefits of CPD to their teams.

Matthew Davis, University of Liverpool said,

“The CPD opportunities from HEaTED helps technical teams to develop their skills, knowledge, and abilities to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and changes in their field. In completing CPD, team members can better understand each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which can lead to improved collaboration and communication. I believe the HEaTED CPD offer helps our technical teams to stay competitive, and motivated, which can lead to improved performance, productivity, and success.”

How do I log and record CPD activities?

CPD is an ongoing process and recording CPD activities is an important element of career development. To reflect and keep track of learning, it is important to maintain a regular and up-to-date record of any CPD activities, as well as future goals or professional achievements in your professional roles. A CPD log and record of learning activities undertaken can be kept using an online purpose-built CPD recording tool, such as the CPD Central at the NTDC. 

NTDC CPD Central is an online CPD resource for technical staff and managers across all sectors to enhance the standards of professionalism. CPD Central simplifies recording and reflection, whilst allowing connectivity and direction from supervisors to tie in key objectives that align to both work and non-work-based activities. CPD recording has never been so easy.

What CPD does HEaTED provide/support?

HEaTED is the leading organisation for Higher Education and Technician Educational Development, delivering skills, training and networking for all specialisms and disciplines of the technical workforce.

HEaTED supports a range of CPD activities designed to inspire technicians and technical staff at every stage of their career. 

Explore our courses or contact us at enquiries@heated.org.uk if you have any questions.