CPD takes on three distinct forms.

Learning determined by the organisation you work for

This is known as Organisational CPD, and is curated by your institution to support your understanding of corporate messages and expectations. Some of this might be due to the rules of your organisation, some of it is due to government requirements, like ensuring compliance with crucial topics such as safeguarding.
Examples of Organisational CPD are mandatory staff training, assessment and enrolment.

Learning that is needed to keep your existing skills up to date

This type of CPD is focussed on continuing to learn and keeping the professional skills required as part of your role up to date. As dual professionals, you are not only educators but also expert technicians, so it’s vitally important to keep developing your skills. 

From April 2024, all teaching staff within FE will be required to hold a minimum of a Level 5 teaching qualification. Your organisation can help you with this through funding support from the Welsh Government. 
Find out more about what qualifications are available to you.

Learning determined by you, for your own development. 

CPD also encompasses self-directed learning for your professional and personal growth. This form of CPD, which you choose and tailor to your needs, often proves to be the most effective and fulfilling, as you can direct your learning to match your aspirations and interests.
Before you embark on self-directed learning CPD, it’s important to engage in self-reflection; to think about your knowledge gaps and where you want to take your professional practice, and to refer to the professional standards as your guidance.
 

Action Research 

Action research is a useful tool that allows you to investigate your own practice, unravel insights, and implement improvements that drive positive change in your practice, your learning environment, and your organisation.

Click here to learn about becoming an Action researcher 

CPD is not just a buzzword; it's a lifelong commitment to enhancing your skills and knowledge throughout your career journey. Learning doesn't halt when you secure a job—it is merely the beginning of a new chapter of your development! 

Explore our range of learning opportunities to support your CPD 

The Professional Learning Fund

The Professional Learning Fund supports further education colleges in developing their professional learning tools and practices.

There are three distinct funding categories—national, institutional and collaborative.

1. National 

This funding category supports the development of all-Wales professional learning initiatives, supporting a collective journey towards excellence in education. 

2. Institutional 

Tailored to the needs of each institution, this category empowers colleges to target individual or collective areas of need to support their educators in their development.

This funding can be used to

• Undertake accredited teaching qualifications
• Undertake specific modules or units of training to enhance teaching skills (e.g. MA modules)
• Update and enhance staff’s industrial/vocational skills
• Purchase bespoke training, including the costs of external trainers or facilitators
• Purchase or develop e-learning packages
• Meet the costs of backfill for staff who are undertaking professional learning
• Undertake Action research

3. Collaborative 

This category allows colleges to collaborate with fellow institutions to develop sustainable and strategic approaches to professional learning, creating a sector-wide impact. 

More information on this exciting opportunity will be available soon.