How to Evidence Your CPD Hours for Your Employer or Professional Body

Completing CPD is one thing. Being able to evidence it is another. Whether you're preparing for an annual appraisal, renewing a professional membership, or simply demonstrating your commitment to development, knowing how to record and present your CPD properly makes a real difference.

What counts as CPD?

Most professional bodies take a broad view of what qualifies as CPD. Formal courses and qualifications count, but so do webinars, conferences, reading industry publications, peer learning, and on-the-job learning — as long as it's structured and reflective.

The key is that you can articulate what you learned, how it applies to your work, and what you'll do differently as a result.

How to keep a CPD log

A CPD log doesn't need to be complex. A simple spreadsheet or document works fine. For each activity, record:

Date and duration. Type of activity (course, webinar, reading, etc.). What you learned. How it's relevant to your role. Any certificate or evidence obtained.

Some professional bodies have their own templates or online portals — check what your specific body requires before deciding on a format.

The value of verifiable certificates

While reflective logs are important, verifiable certificates carry more weight. When you complete a course with ESI-UK's CPD membership, you receive a nationally recognised digital certificate that can be downloaded, shared, and referenced in your CPD portfolio.

This is particularly valuable for professionals in regulated sectors — healthcare, social care, education, construction, and others — where evidence of specific training may be a compliance requirement.

How many hours do you need?

Requirements vary significantly by professional body. Some require as few as 20 hours per year; others 35 or more. Some specify a mix of structured and unstructured learning. Check your specific body's requirements — and if you're not a member of a professional body, a reasonable personal target is 20-25 hours of structured CPD per year.

Make it easier with ESI-UK

ESI-UK's CPD membership gives you access to 150+ nationally recognised courses, all with verifiable digital certificates included. At £9.99 a month, it's one of the most cost-effective ways to build a strong CPD portfolio.

​Start building your CPD record today at esi-uk.com/cpd.