Escaping the frameworks: Arguments for CPD as a practice-led break-out from normative occupational standards in health and social care

Abstract

The newly introduced CPD structures of post-registration training and learning requirements for registered social workers are already under review to examine whether they are ‘fit for purpose’. Quite what ‘fit’ might mean is no clearer than what the ‘purpose’ of CPD should be in the fast changing world of health and social care services. The theoretical arguments that I will advance in this paper set out to problematise some of the current conceptions of social work CPD. I will maintain that the continuing professional development and education of social workers requires a more fundamental analysis in order that ‘people and practices’ can be prioritised. This paper will draw upon social theory and psychological constructivist perspectives with arguments being illustrated through reference to policy documents in this field as well as a small empirical study of post-qualification CPD students carried out by the author