Valid CPD Activities
Continuous Professional Development isn't just about expensive courses. Here is what actually counts, and how to record it.
Every year, thousands of engineers fail their CPD audits. Not because they didn't learn anything, but because they didn't record the right kind of learning.
The Three Pillars of Valid CPD
A healthy CPD record is balanced. If you submit 40 hours of "reading trade magazines", you will be flagged. Aim for a mix across these three categories:
- Formal Learning: Training courses, university modules, and institutional seminars.
- Informal Learning: On-the-job training, reading technical journals, attending trade shows.
- Service to the Profession: Mentoring junior engineers, STEM ambassador work, sitting on technical committees.
The Reflection Requirement
Recording the activity is only 50% of the job. Assessors look for reflection. For every entry, you must answer:
- → What did I learn?
- → How will I apply this to my day-to-day work?
- → What is the benefit to my employer or clients?
How many hours do I need?
The Engineering Council does not stipulate a strict number of hours, but most member institutions (like IET and IMechE) strongly recommend a minimum of 30 to 40 hours per year.
Use our CPD Points Calculator to convert your informal activities into valid hours accurately.