Reflective Continuing Professional Development (RCPD)

No. You only need to keep your records up to date in case you’re selected for audit. We recommend completing and saving your RCPD documentation at least annually.

There is no fixed number of hours. What matters is that your learning is purposeful, aligns with your RCPD plan, and is reflected on. Quality and relevance matter more than quantity.

Almost any activity can count — reading, mentoring, teaching, discussion, attending workshops — as long as it supports your development as an Allied Veterinary Professional and is linked to learning goals.

Yes. You can include any relevant learning completed during your current RCPD cycle, even if you documented it retroactively — just be sure to reflect on it.

If you’re audited and your records are incomplete or unclear, we’ll give you an opportunity to update them. We understand that life happens — the process is supportive, not punitive.

No. You can use any format that works for you, as long as it captures the four key steps: Plan, Do, Reflect, Store.

Yes — if they support your role as an AVP. Activities like mindfulness, communication workshops, or stress management training can be included if they relate to your professional development goals.

Use your professional judgment and link it back to your RCPD plan. If you’re still unsure, feel free to contact AVPRC for guidance.

Includes formal learning activities such as lectures, conferences, webinars, seminars, and hands-on workshops — delivered in person or online. Study toward a relevant qualification (e.g., diploma or degree) also qualifies. To count, the activity should relate to your RCPD plan and support learning that contributes to your role as an AVP. Interactive formats are encouraged for the strongest outcomes.

Includes structured one-on-one learning such as coaching, mentoring, or clinical instruction, as well as participation in a study group. These activities should be intentional, planned, and guided by your learning needs — not incidental. Both receiving and providing mentorship can count if it contributes to professional growth and is reflected upon.

Teaching or presenting at a tertiary level or equivalent, including instructing in workshops, speaking at conferences, or facilitating professional learning sessions. Planning and preparing these activities also count. The key is that the teaching process deepens your own learning through research, reflection, or engagement with others.

Writing textbooks, articles, or educational content intended for publication or teaching. This counts as CPD when it involves researching a topic, reflecting on your knowledge, and developing ideas or resources that enhance your own understanding. Peer reviewing content for publication counts as well.

Includes clinical rounds, case debriefs, peer feedback, teamwork discussions, and case-based reflection. These must be intentional learning opportunities — not routine discussions — and should be linked to learning goals and supported with brief notes or reflection.

Reading professional journals, textbooks, or course materials, or viewing non-interactive videos or podcasts. While valuable, these activities are most effective when linked to a learning goal and supported with a brief summary or reflection. AVPRC encourages combining private study with other more interactive forms of learning.

Learning that strengthens your personal or interpersonal effectiveness — including stress management, leadership, communication, conflict resolution, time management, and client care. These topics support wellbeing and professional resilience, especially when aligned to your RCPD goals.

Includes skills related to running or supporting a veterinary practice — such as planning, financial literacy, supervision, risk management, marketing, operations, or IT systems. These support safe, ethical, and efficient work environments and may be highly relevant for leadership or management roles.

Participation in committees, standards groups, or leadership roles — or mentoring and coaching others — can count if you gain professional insight or skill and reflect on the learning. Attendance at relevant meetings (e.g., ethics committees, standards panels) may also qualify when learning occurs.

• To uphold professional standards

• To support continuous improvement

• To provide accountability across the register

• Your most recent RCPD log or record

• Brief notes or reflections showing what you learned

• Your RCPD plan, if available

You don’t need a perfect portfolio — just a record that shows planned, relevant learning that has been reflected upon.

• Keep your RCPD log up to date

• File your learning evidence as you go (certificates, notes, reflections)

• Use the AVPRC templates or your own format

If you’re selected, we’ll guide you through the process and support you to meet the requirements.

Need support?

If you’re unsure about the process or how to prepare, contact us at info@avprc.org.nz