CPD spotlight – a special webinar!

This year, the CPD committee chose to take a fresh approach, introducing a new initiative to recognise excellence in Continuing Professional Development and to highlight reflective learning that genuinely influences professional practice. We held a special event on 22^nd of October 2025 to promote the importance of CPD.

Our Chair Valerie noted in her “top tips,” strong CPD begins with clearly documenting the activity undertaken: outlining what the activity involved, summarising its purpose, stating the person’s personal learning objectives at the outset, and explaining how the activity relates directly to clinical practice.

the committee introduced a CPD competition this year

Secondly, a CPD record should include a reflective evaluation of the activity—an honest and thoughtful review that clearly demonstrates what has been learned. With these principles in mind, the committee introduced a CPD competition this year. Entries were assessed for the depth of detail provided, the balance of positive and negative reflections, the clarity of the embryologist’s personal learning points, and the extent to which candidates could show, with evidence, how their practice had benefited from the CPD experience.

We examined several key aspects, including shifts in learning methods and the ways in which these developments may have influenced the candidate’s clinical practice and personal approach to patient care. We then focused on identifying the subsequent actions or changes in practice inspired by this learning activity, allowing us to identify the candidate who scored the highest across all categories.

Prior to announcing our winner, we would like to take a moment to acknowledge some of the top entries submitted to this year’s CPD competition. Each candidate demonstrated a meaningful level of insight and reflection—showing a commitment to enhancing their professional practice, engaging thoughtfully with data and research, and balancing these learning aims with the realities of service demands. In many ways, their work exemplifies the true purpose of CPD. Of the entries received, two were highly commended.

One particularly notable entry reflected on learning from a joint embryology and counselling session, focusing on how we communicate difficult news and support patients during emotionally challenging moments. The candidate displayed impressive self-awareness in recognising that an instinct to “fix” a situation can sometimes limit the ability simply to listen. Through discussion with colleagues and a fertility counsellor, they developed greater confidence in navigating emotionally charged conversations. Their reflection highlighted growth in professional boundaries, emotional self-regulation, and a more patient-centred approach to communication. They also demonstrated how theoretical understanding can meaningfully inform day-to-day interactions—recognising different anxiety responses and learning how to pause and re-engage with sensitivity.

This was a strong example of reflective practice leading to increased empathy, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the complexities of patient care.

Another compelling entry that drew the committee’s attention offered a data-driven, research-informed reflection on the practice of extending embryo culture to day six. In this piece, the embryologist demonstrated initiative, curiosity, and leadership in exploring how laboratory protocols might be adapted to optimise patient outcomes. They engaged their colleagues through journal clubs and team discussions, carried out retrospective data analysis, and carefully balanced scientific aspiration with the practical realities of service delivery. Although the proposed change could not ultimately be implemented, the candidate reflected thoughtfully on the experience. They acknowledged the complexities of organisational decision-making and the multiple considerations that shape laboratory policy.

a CPD record should include a reflective evaluation of the activity—an honest and thoughtful review that clearly demonstrates what has been learned

This entry showcased analytical thinking, collaborative working, and a strong commitment to evidence-based practice — all hallmarks of good-quality CPD.

However, this year’s winning entry comes from Mandy Gall, a Clinical Embryologist at Glasgow Royal Infirmary Assisted Conception Service, who shared an exceptionally thoughtful and candid reflection on her interaction with a couple undergoing IVF treatment.

What distinguished Mandy’s submission was the depth of her reflection. She did not simply recount the events, but examined the reasons behind them, thoughtfully considering how unconscious bias can shape communication and influence the patient experience. Mandy demonstrated real courage and professionalism in examining her own assumptions, thoughtfully linking this experience to the HCPC Standards of Proficiency — particularly Standard 5.3, which highlights the importance of recognising how personal values and beliefs can influence professional practice.

Crucially, the reflection did not end with awareness alone. It led to tangible change. Mandy introduced new approaches to ensure that both partners are consistently acknowledged and included in discussions and care, helping to create a more balanced and respectful patient experience. Her entry illustrated the full arc of high-quality CPD: reflection, recognition, research, collaboration, and action — underpinned by humility, insight, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Her entry illustrated the full arc of high-quality CPD: reflection, recognition, research, collaboration, and action

This CPD entry stands out as an outstanding example of reflective learning in action — showing how thoughtful self-evaluation can genuinely shape more inclusive and compassionate patient care.

We are delighted to congratulate our winner, who has embodied the highest standards of professional development and empathy in practice: Mandy Gall, Clinical Embryologist at the Glasgow Royal Infirmary NHS Assisted Conception Service.

You can access the full recording of the CPD webinar in your members dashboard under events/event recordings