CPD and revalidation: theory, practice and lessons from teachers

As part of the revalidation process, midwives are required to undertake 35 hours of continuing professional development (CPD), of which 20 must be ‘participatory’ (Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), 2015a). ‘Participatory’ learning includes any learning activity which involves interaction with other people, providing the opportunity to learn with and from each other. Participation can take place face to face such as attendance at a study day or conference, or virtually, such as an online discussion group using a social media platform (NMC, 20178). A ‘participatory’ rather than ‘didactic’ approach to ongoing professional development is more likely to lead to positive changes in practice and thus better levels of care (NMC, 2014). This article will look at the theory of CPD and compare CPD activities of midwives and teachers to consider how ‘teacher research’ might be adopted by midwives with the potential for service improvement and as a consequence better quality of care.