You make a CPD declaration when applying for your APC, but you do not routinely need to submit your full learning record each year.

Keep your records up to date and available if you are selected for audit.

AVPRC uses 40 hours over two years as a guide. The emphasis is on making an ongoing effort to maintain and develop your professional competence through relevant learning and reflection.

If your learning falls short of that guide, consider whether you are addressing your professional learning needs and what you should plan next. Contact us if you need guidance.

You can include formal and informal learning relevant to your professional practice. Examples include courses, reading, mentoring, professional discussions, case reviews, teaching preparation and research.

Explain what you learned and how it relates to your work. See “Activities that count” for more examples.

Yes. You can record relevant learning from the period covered by your declaration, even if you did not document it at the time.

Record the activity and date as accurately as you can, and add a reflection on what you learned. Keeping notes as you go will make this easier in future.

Identify the gaps in your learning or records and make a practical plan to address them. Record learning you have completed as accurately as possible, and be honest about anything missing.

If you are unsure whether you can make the APC declaration, contact AVPRC before submitting your application.

If an audit identifies incomplete or unclear records, we will explain what needs attention and give you an opportunity to respond.

No. You can use a document, spreadsheet, learning portfolio or another format that works for you.

Your records should identify your learning activities, their relevance and your reflections. Keep any supporting evidence with them where possible.

Learning about wellbeing can contribute when it supports your professional practice. Examples include developing skills in communication, managing stress, setting boundaries or responding to difficult situations.

Record the learning involved and its relevance to your role. A wellbeing activity does not automatically count as CPD simply because it is beneficial to you.

Ask yourself what you learned, how it relates to your professional role and whether you can explain its value to your practice.

If you are still unsure, contact AVPRC for guidance.

Practitioners enrolled at least part-time in an AVPRC-approved animal healthcare qualification are exempt from the separate CPD requirement during the years they are studying.

Keep evidence of your enrolment to support the exemption, and provide it if requested through the application or audit process.

Other study may contribute to your RCPD when it is relevant to your practice. Contact AVPRC if you are unsure whether your programme qualifies for the exemption.

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