CPD

All you want to know

How many CPD points do I have to obtain to get my Bronze Award?

Your CPD period runs for 3 years from the date of registration. You will need 40 points every year to demonstrate your continuing development. For each half hour of development work (a course, on the job learning etc) you can earn 4 points.

When you get your CPD bronze award it will be valid for 3 years, subject to your continuing to earn your target points.

What happens after 3 years?

In order to renew your bronze CPD you will be invited to take a new set of papers (this will be on similar topics to those taken the first time but obviously they will have changed to reflect new developments in the industry). This will demonstrate that you still have the foundation skills to do your job well.

How can I earn CPD points and which activities quality for CPD points?

There are lots of opportunities to earn CPD points. 

You can get them for taking part in the on the job training - maybe information about a new machine or product.

Any external or internal courses you attend which are directly relevant to your job and, of course from appropriate AVA activities which might include AVEX, regional meetings with suitable topics, seminars and conferences. 

Any research you have undertaken that is relevant to your job.

Can I carry surplus points forward to my next CPD period?

No. If you find that you have a great surplus of points then you should think about moving upwards towards the next level i.e. if you have gained your Bronze award you will be able to move towards your Silver award and then to the Gold award.

When does the CPD year start and end?

Your CPD year starts from the date of registration and finishes 12 months from that date.

Am I required to attend any compulsory courses?

No. But you will gain points from courses and other development opportunities. So long as you can prove that any courses you have attended are relevant to your job.

Where can I find information about courses?

You will be able to get information from your company.

The AVA is not offering training courses but will endeavour to locate a course for you on request. However courses will not be endorsed by the AVA.

Your AVA Quality Auditor will also be able to assist you in locating courses in your area.

Will I face any sanction if I fail to comply with any CPD requirements?

If you fail to return your completed CPD record of achievement card at the end of your CPD year your CPD award will be void and your registration will cease.

Do I have to submit any documentary evidence of courses attended when returning my completed record card?

No. However, you are required to retain proof of attendance, i.e. certificate of attendance or a letter from the trainer, so that it can be sent to the AVA if requested. Many course providers will keep records of attendance but you should not rely on this as the onus is on you to satisfy the AVA regarding attendance at any activity for which you claim CPD points.

From time to time the AVA Quality Auditors will visit your company and may ask to see your records.

What CPD records do I have to maintain?

You can keep all your records on your Record of Achievement. Alongside this you need to keep proof of attendance at any courses. Most courses offer a Certificate of Attendance for this purpose.

You will need to update your record of achievement form and send this in each time your CPD years come to an end.

How will I satisfy the AVA regarding my compliance with the private study I have undertaken?

You should keep written records of any time spent by you in private study for submission to the AVA if and when required.

What should I do if I am unable to comply with the CPD requirements?

You should contact the AVA in writing and set out your circumstances. The AVA may give an extension on time.  It is a matter for the discretion of the AVA which is unlikely to be exercised lightly.

What happens if I cease to work for a while and then return?

As above, the AVA has the power to waive any CPD requirements. So if you cease work for a period of time (for example due to illness, injury, maternity leave whilst in employment) then you can apply in writing to the AVA, supported by documentary evidence, for a waiver for whatever relief from the CPD requirements you need.