Choosing a CPD Workshop: Questions Beyond the Course Title

A compelling workshop title does not tell you whether an activity is suitable for your learning needs. Before booking, look at the intended outcomes, the level of the material and how the learning will be delivered. This helps you choose deliberately and avoid confusing attendance with a new professional qualification.

Read the learning outcomes closely

Look for a description of what participants should understand or be able to explore by the end. Broad promises such as 'transform your practice' are less informative than specific outcomes. Ask for more detail if the description does not explain the scope.

Check the intended audience and any prerequisites. An advanced workshop may assume prior training, while an introductory event may not provide the depth needed for a particular responsibility. Neither is inherently better; suitability depends on your objective.

Review the presenter and material

Read the presenter's relevant background and how it connects to the topic. Distinguish professional qualifications, teaching experience and promotional claims. Where the activity refers to research or a particular method, ask how sources and limitations are addressed.

A useful learning event should leave room for questions and uncertainty. Be cautious about treating a single framework as applicable to every person or setting. Consider whether the material can be examined critically rather than simply adopted.

Check format and practical access

Find out whether the event is live, recorded or a combination. Ask about participation, discussion, materials, accessibility and any requirements for completion. If a recording is provided, confirm how long access lasts.

Compare the full cost and cancellation terms. Consider the time needed to prepare and reflect afterwards. A low fee may still be poor value if the level is unsuitable or if you cannot participate in the way the activity requires.

Confirm evidence and professional relevance

Ask what completion evidence is supplied and check whether the activity fits your applicable CPD criteria. Do not assume that a provider's statement about credits settles every professional body's requirements. The organisation setting the requirement decides what it accepts.

Record why you selected the workshop. After attending, compare the actual learning with that reason. The comparison can inform future choices and help you identify further development needs.

Frequently asked questions

Does a CPD certificate authorise a new specialist service?

Do not infer that from attendance alone. Consider the training, competence, supervision and other requirements relevant to the work.

Is a recorded event automatically acceptable CPD?

Check your current criteria and evidence requirements. Format alone does not establish acceptance.

Use ICPHAA Contact for Association CPD questions, and review Standards & Ethics when considering the relationship between learning and professional practice.