Many organisations across all industry sectors are able to benefit from CPD accreditation for their training courses, eLearning, seminars, workshops, and educational events. Gaining CPD accreditation for training courses enables organisations to formalise their knowledge into a recognised approach to learning. The CPD Certification Service has a wide range of accredited CPD providers that can help learners achieve their individual CPD obligations. This article explains the course accreditation process and how to get a training course accredited.
Understanding the CPD course accreditation process
The first phase of the course accreditation process is to have an informal consultation to find out if training courses and events are suitable for Continuing Professional Development. Our expert and friendly CPD team will discuss the structure of your training, how it is delivered, and the key learning objectives and outcomes for your activities. We will explain CPD membership, the benefits of becoming a CPD provider, the accreditation process and features of membership included.
The CPD course accreditation process makes sure any learning is educational in nature and follows an established and practical method that has been developed over the past few decades. The course accreditation process is focused on providing the highest standards of Continuing Professional Development for delegates and attendees. It takes an impartial and objective overview of the structure and value to ensure full conformity to CPD guidelines.
Gaining accreditation for CPD training courses
Once approved as a CPD provider, the next step is to submit training courses and events directly to the Assessments team to start the accreditation process. The learning materials that are required for review vary depending on the type of CPD, but usually will include presentation slides, handouts, and any additional training course notes.
The CPD Assessments team evaluates learning and each CPD activity is benchmarked against a proven assessment criteria to ensure that standards are met across a number of key areas. Should any materials not meet the requirements to be approved, we will provide helpful advice, feedback and recommendations where suitable to support and develop your training. The accreditation process typically takes 10-14 working days, depending on the size and duration of the educational activity.
Once CPD training courses are accredited
Upon successful completion of the assessment process, your organisation will receive a CPD certificate of achievement, demonstrating that the course meets the required standards, knowledge and guidelines. The ‘CPD Certified’ symbol can be used on the accredited training course materials, as well as certificates of attendance for proof of validation.
A description of the approved learning can also be published on the CPD website in the CPD Courses Catalogue and added to your CPD Member Directory profile. In addition, we provide a complimentary and fully optional Delegate Certificate Service (DCS), saving our members the time and cost of post-training attendee certificates administration.
Benefits of CPD accreditation for training courses
Organisations seek to obtain CPD accreditation for their training courses and events to have a competitive advantage over other organisations in the market, represent themselves as industry experts and increase the chances of meeting the right target audience. Being a member of The CPD Certification Service helps to further develop new and existing client relationships. CPD accreditation can lead to increased revenue and delegate bookings for educational activities and improve business profitability.
External validation demonstrates the steps taken to deliver the highest learning standards. Our 'Member' and ‘Certified’ symbols are instantly recognisable to millions of professionals across the world as a sign of quality and credibility. Gaining CPD accreditation for training courses provides an endorsement and greater profile recognition. It can improve the quality of learning materials – through access to experienced CPD experts, providing advice and a framework to help continuously improve an educational offering. The accreditation process is fast, detailed and invaluable in driving an organisation’s CPD objectives forward.
Becoming a CPD accredited training provider
Established in 1996, The CPD Certification Service has over 27 years’ experience providing CPD accreditation. With members in over 100 countries, our CPD providers benefit from the ability to promote themselves as part of an international community where quality is both recognised and assured. As well as gaining accreditation for any courses and training, we provide a number of additional membership services to support a fully holistic CPD provision. Please visit our Become a CPD Provider page to learn more.
What is myCPD Portal – log and record CPD?
myCPD Portal is a free online record tool that can be used to effectively manage, track and log Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for any ongoing training requirements. Set annual CPD targets and hours completed, keep individual records for learning activities and store CPD certificates of attendance in one simple place. It allows professionals to easily download records for their employer or professional body, simplifying the CPD process.
More information about CPD training course accreditation
Our unique 27+ years' experience and history provide assurance that any courses and events will be reviewed and assessed to ensure individuals are getting the most out of learning. The CPD Certification Service offers different membership levels to suit needs and budgets, which is determined by an initial dialogue and recommendations based on the number of training activities.
We hope this article was helpful. For more information about how to accredit a training course and the accreditation process, please use the contact form or call us on +44 (0)208 840 4383.
