ARB unveils CPD evolution in five-year strategy

The Architects Registration Board has finalised its 2026-30 strategy with continuing professional development taking centre stage in raising competency levels. The regulator commits to using evidence and data to evaluate and enhance the impact of its statutory CPD scheme, moving beyond the initial implementation phase to maturation. This signals a shift from establishing the framework to refining its effectiveness, with ARB positioning CPD as a key lever for professional advancement rather than mere compliance. The strategy acknowledges substantial challenges facing the profession while promising support for innovation. However, the emphasis on evaluation suggests ARB recognises current gaps in understanding CPD's actual impact on competence. This data-driven approach may lead to more targeted requirements, potentially creating additional administrative burden even as the regulator claims to modernise services. The timing coincides with ongoing debates about title protection, suggesting CPD enhancement may serve broader regulatory legitimacy concerns.

[Source](https://arb.org.uk/about-arb/arbs-business-plan/corporate-strategy-2026-30/)