Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I do CPD?

CPD is a useful process that adds value to your existing capabilities by demonstrating your commitment to your development. More and more people are engaging in CPD to demonstrate that they are keeping abreast of developments in their field. It improves your employability or promotion prospects and maintains flexibility for changing roles or career moves.

Our scheme provides you with a framework for furthering your professional development and demonstrates to others that you take responsibility for your learning and competence. It will aid your progression through the categories of membership, and help you on your way to Chartered Biologist status.

I’m used to taking opportunities to develop myself as and when they come up. Why should I make more work for myself by planning ahead and reflecting on it?

Formally planning your CPD gives you better control of your development. Whilst opportunistic development has its own value, actively thinking about your needs, planning, recording and reflecting on them is a powerful learning tool. Formalising your development turns it even more to your advantage. It's like going through your stores to make a shopping list instead of shopping just when you are hungry. If you do the latter you might impulse-buy items you don’t absolutely need and miss out on some staples and end up paying more!

How much CPD do I have to do?

That is up to you. We ask that you complete enough CPD to gain 50 credits a year. If you don’t manage this, then you can make it up the following year, in addition to completing that year’s credit.

I’m already in a CPD scheme. How will I find time for the Society's CPD too?

Much of your existing CPD can count towards our CPD scheme. There are many other activities that you probably already do that would also count.

How do I get CPD credit?

You get two credits for each hour of formal CPD, three credits for CPD activities recognised by our Approval Scheme or one credit for informal CPD.

Why do I have to count CPD credits?

Although the outcomes of CPD activity are most important to you, the measurable element is important as it enables us to use the CPD scheme to underpin the quality of Chartered status and so enhance your professional standing.

How do I record it?

Simple recording forms are provided for you to record the details on. This will be kept to the minimum but some space will be included in which you should state how the activity has benefited you.

Why do I have to keep records? It’s a waste of my time.

Keeping records is an important part of a learning cycle and will help you identify strengths and those areas that still need development. Records are also your most visible way of proving your engagement with CPD and your professionalism. A CPD record can be useful support, e.g. during an appraisal.

I’m doing some distance learning for an MSc – will this count?

Yes, this can count. Depending on your work, aspects will count as formal or informal.

What counts as CPD?

Basically, any activity that develops your work-related knowledge and skills counts as CPD. It can be formal (like attending conferences) or informal (like reading relevant journals). We are not prescriptive about what must be done; it is for you to decide what you need. If you are in doubt as to whether an activity counts towards CPD, consider how it benefits you. If you can demonstrate that it has enhanced skills or knowledge relevant to your work, chances are it counts.

What if I’m unemployed?

CPD is not just for practising professionals; it’s a good way of showing potential employers that you take your development seriously, even when not employed.

Our scheme accepts informal CPD as well as formal - there are therefore many opportunities to find activities that enhance your skills and maintain your general abilities. The principles are the same; identify areas you would like to develop and methods of developing them, then evaluate their benefit.