What is Structured CPD

2 August 2013 Steve BaileyCompliance

Currently, this is one of the questions we are most often asked.

The trouble is, there are different sources of opinion. At the end of the day, we believe that it is the regulator’s opinion that counts and this is what the FCA say:

Structured CPD is an activity that uses material or activities that are designed to achieve a particular learning outcome.
As with unstructured CPD, it is capable of being independently verified.
Structured learning activities include: participating in seminars (web based or in person); lectures; conferences; workshops; courses; and completing appropriate e-learning.
For a minority of activity, it might also include structured, educational reading, where quality reading material has been produced to meet the required learning outcome.
The activity should require a contribution of thirty minutes or more of the adviser’s time.
It does not include carrying out research on products and services for your client.

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Our View

The key words are ‘learning outcome’.

For CPD to be structured, it must have been done to achieve a learning outcome.
For there to be an outcome, there has to be a need.
Needs are identified through identifying gaps in learning and knowledge i.e. through training needs analysis.
Needs should be documented in a Training & Development Plan.
Outcomes are achieved when learning has been completed and tested.