In our experience, social workers are naturally reflective professionals. You’re committed to your work and constantly asking questions about your practice, your impact, and your wellbeing.

That’s why Continuing Professional Development (CPD) is such an integral part of social work – and why Social Work England places so much emphasis on it. Good learning develops critical thinking, boosts confidence, and creates opportunities for growth across the profession.

Often, its greatest value lies in the protected time it gives you to pause and think, rather than simply carry on doing.

CPD and Re-registration: What’s Required in 2025

As part of your Social Work England registration renewal, every practising social worker must record at least two pieces of CPD through their online account before 30 November 2025.

One of those CPD entries must include a peer reflection — a record of what you have learned from discussing your practice or development with another registered social worker.

This isn’t just a tick-box exercise. Peer reflection is an important space for sharing experiences, exploring challenges, and supporting each other’s wellbeing.

Social Work England recognises that reflection and peer support are essential to high-quality, ethical practice – not an administrative chore.

What Counts as CPD?

Social work offers a broad range of learning opportunities, from formal training and academic courses to informal, day-to-day experiences.

Social Work England welcomes a wide variety of examples, such as:

• A productive team meeting or case discussion that challenged your thinking
• A useful podcast, webinar, or journal article
• Learning from service users, carers, or colleagues
• Reflecting on how you handled a complex situation at work

If you can demonstrate that you’ve learned something that has developed your practice, it counts as CPD.

Making It Manageable

Few social workers welcome another online form – but CPD isn’t about bureaucracy. It’s about staying connected to your professional purpose.

Allocating time for CPD throughout the year helps keep it meaningful and manageable. Writing up your reflections while they’re still fresh makes the process easier – and more authentic.

Tip: Set aside a short block of time each month to note what you’ve learned. It’s far easier than trying to recall a year’s worth of insight in one sitting.

The Practicalities

Social Work England has continued to refine its online CPD recording system, including:

• A draft-save function so you can pause and return to your work
• Step-by-step guidance and technical support via their website
• Ongoing improvements to make the platform more reliable and user-friendly

If you’re unsure where to start, you’ll find helpful advice in the “How to record CPD” section of the Social Work England website.

Our Advice

• Don’t leave it to the last minute – your re-registration deadline is 30 November 2025
• You must Include at least one CPD record with a peer reflection
• Use Google Chrome for a smoother online experience
• Keep entries concise – exceeding word limits can cause submission issues
• Anonymise your entries and avoid including identifiable information
• Remember to hit “Submit CPD” once your record is complete

Here to Support You

At Pertemps Social Care, we work alongside hundreds of registered social workers every year. We understand the demands of the profession – and the importance of protected time for reflection.

If you’re unsure about the re-registration process or how to record your CPD, speak to your Pertemps consultant. We’re here to help you stay compliant, supported, and confident in your professional journey.