CPD Requirements Flashcards

How does reflective practice contribute to CPD under HCPC standards?

Answer: Reflection enables learning from experience, identifies development needs, and links CPD to practice improvement — it is central to the CPD framework

Reflective practice is integral to HCPC's CPD model. Registrants must reflect on their learning activities to demonstrate how they contribute to practice improvement, making reflection a core component of the portfolio.

A registrant has not updated their CPD portfolio for 18 months. They are approaching renewal. What should they do?

Answer: Urgently backfill the portfolio with documented learning activities from the past 2 years, prioritising quality and relevance

HCPC expects an up-to-date, ongoing record. A gap of 18 months is a significant risk if selected for audit. The registrant must document and reflect on all relevant learning over the past 2 years urgently.

What is the difference between 'formal' and 'informal' CPD?

Answer: Formal CPD involves structured organised learning (e.g., courses, conferences); informal CPD includes self-directed learning (e.g., reading, reflection, peer discussion) — both are valid under HCPC standards

HCPC recognises both formal CPD (structured education and training programmes) and informal CPD (self-directed reading, reflection, peer learning). A varied portfolio including both types is expected.

How should a registrant record a CPD entry in their HCPC portfolio?

Answer: Describe the activity, reflect on what was learned, and explain how it has improved or will improve practice and/or benefit service users

A good HCPC CPD entry includes: what the activity was, what was learned, reflection on its significance, and how it has improved practice or benefited patients — demonstrating genuine learning rather than mere attendance.

A radiographer's CPD is entirely focused on management skills as they now work in a service improvement role. Is this acceptable?

Answer: Yes — CPD should reflect the registrant's current professional role; management-focused CPD is appropriate for a management role

HCPC requires CPD to be relevant to the registrant's current scope of practice. For a professional working in service improvement, management and quality improvement CPD is appropriate and acceptable.

What is HCPC's position on CPD activities that lead to higher qualifications (e.g., MSc programmes)?

Answer: Academic study is a valid form of CPD if it is relevant to professional practice and contributes to improving care

Postgraduate academic study is a highly valid CPD activity when it develops professionally relevant knowledge and skills. It should be evidenced and reflected upon in the CPD portfolio as any other learning activity.