What is CPD? Why is important?

CPD is mandatory for those individuals registered on the professional register of cyber security professionals, held by the UK Cyber Security Council. CPD records will be monitored by the Licensed Bodies working with the Council.

Demonstration of commitment to CPD is an integral and mandatory part of the competency requirements for all cyber security practitioners irrespective of role or specialism. This is a commitment we expect from all Registrants awarded a professional registration title to further develop their knowledge and skills.

CPD is vital within the cyber security sector as we are securing a moving target, and our knowledge must be kept up to date in order to do this.

What counts as CPD?

This may involve structured activities such as courses, distance learning programmes, private study, preparation of papers and presentations, mentoring, involvement in professional body activities, or relevant voluntary work. This also involves on-the-job professional experience, attending events & seminars, and may involve activities completed for other organisations such as producing records for professional institutions/organisations, company training, development, and appraisal processes.

Should I record my CPD?

Registrants must commit to the planning, recording, and making available for reporting of their own CPD.

Learning through CPD should be reflective and should, where possible, relate to specific objectives. Having a regularly reviewed development plan will facilitate learning, although there will always be a place for unplanned activities. Recording and reflection on activities and their outcomes is a valuable process for turning learning into competence.

How much CPD should I be doing?

We ask for 25 hours of CPD completed each year totalling 75 hours over a three-year period, and across several sources.

The Council’s intention is to encourage a culture in which Registrants engage in CPD and take ownership of their own learning and development.