The CPLD Quality Mark


The primary aim of The CPLD Quality Mark is to empower schools to excel in their provision of CPD to all staff and in doing so improve the learning outcomes for young people.  We have called it the CPLD (Continuing Professional Learning and Development) Quality Mark to stress the linkage between staff learning and improvements in student learning. The CPLD Quality Mark has been developed and is operated by education professionals as an education specific Framework that links to key school improvement issues such as teaching and learning, AfL, performance management, learner engagement and support staff functions to name but a few. It also accommodates the developments specified in the 2010 Schools White Paper and the main agenda of the New Inspection Framework.  

The CPLD Quality Mark is the only national externally assessed Quality Mark specifically for CPD provision in schools which is accredited at Bronze, Silver and Gold levels thus providing a tiered entry level and challenging progression route; leadership ambition is built into the Framework.

Successfully meeting the standards of The CPLD Quality Mark involves the following steps:

  • Performing an Initial Audit to measure against clear and coherent standards of effective CPD provision
  • Taking the necessary steps to meet these standards and improve effectiveness, evidenced by a completed Audit Tool Document
  • Undergoing an external Assessment Visit to determine whether the standards have been met

The CPLD Quality Mark embraces and includes recommendations from Lead Bodies such as the TDA, Ofsted and the National College, incorporates best practice from schools, is informed by research and international benchmarks such as TALIS, and is very practical in terms of implementation. The CPLD Quality Mark has been benchmarked so that: 

  • The Bronze tier corresponds to the Investors in People Core Standard and Ofsted’s ‘Good’
  • The Silver tier corresponds to Ofsted’s ‘Outstanding’
  • The Gold tier represents leading edge practice. The Gold Plus tier will be awarded in exceptional circumstances for innovation in CPD provision. 

 Attainment of The CPLD Quality Mark by your school demonstrates that:

  • CPD practice is valued, effective and fully inclusive
  • Investment in CPD is improving the quality of provision and outcomes for young people
  • Provision of CPD to all staff is regularly reviewed and improved
  • Local and National Quality Assurance and Inspection Guidelines are adhered to 
  • Effective CPD is seen as a key strategic goal in achieving excellence in teaching
  • Investment in the development and improvement of staff is a central goal of the school

Click here to read a more detailed overview of The CPLD Quality Mark.