When I work with school leaders, this is one of the most common questions I get asked.

I’m always careful how I answer as there are so many variables in the CPD equation that it would be all too easy for me to give the wrong advice. 

Instead, I ask a series of questions until it’s clear to them what options they have and what the benefits and risks of each of these may be.

If you’re committed to your CPD but you’re not sure how to move forward, then this blog post is for you.

Below, are the three main questions that will help you determine your goals and learning preferences as well as assess the practicalities you should consider when undertaking any form of CPD activity.

Ask yourself:

What am I looking to gain from undertaking CPD? Is it to:

1. acquire or develop a skill?
2. gain or deepen my knowledge?
3. achieve accreditation? 
4. progress my career?
5. build credibility?
6. meet the requirements of my employer?
7. meet compliance requirements?

What is my learning style and preferred learning environment?

1. In a classroom?
2. In a large group?
3. In a small group?
4. One-to-one?
5. Online?
6. In my workplace, on the job?
7. In a highly structured environment?
8. In a more flexible, informal environment?
9. By digging in and learning over time?
10. In quick, short, sharp doses?

What investment am I prepared to make?

1. Am I limited by budget?
2. Am I going to pay for it or is my employer?
3. If my employer pays, will I be bound by any terms and conditions?
4. How much time do I have to undertake the CPD that I need?
5. Do I have the time to invest?
6. Will I have to make compromises in terms of work/life balance, family time or finance? Is it worth it?
7. What happens if I don’t achieve what I intended?
8. Will my employer support my CPD activity?
9. Will they be flexible in terms of time and workload?
10. Is the investment going to be worth it in the end?

One final question I would urge you to consider is:

Am I selecting the right form of CPD to help me achieve my goals?

There isn’t a right or wrong way of learning and what works for someone else may not work for you. You just need to make the best, most informed decision for you.

There is so much choice out there for school leaders when it comes to CPD. If you’re overwhelmed by options, limited by budget or are simply looking for new CPD ideas, then I’ve got something that might help.

I’ve put together a CPD Menu that has 25 CPD suggestions with guidance on budget, learning styles and benefits.

Take some time to work through the menu along to structure a CPD plan that will work for you. This may mean one activity, this may mean several. 

Just remember; that you don’t have to do everything simultaneously. 

Put one foot in front of the other and set off in the direction you choose. A small amount of constant progress is just as valid as a race to the finish.

This blog is part of a series – to read my other posts about how to decide if you’re in the right job, mapping your career path, writing a stand-out application and how to make a good impression at interview, click here.

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