Tracking Non-Verifiable Learning: Making Informal CPD Count

Tracking informal CPD is essential if you want your self-directed learning to count toward professional requirements. As an accountant or CPD manager, you probably spend time reading industry journals, discussing case studies with colleagues, or listening to podcasts on niche topics. These informal activities matter, yet they are easy to overlook when you update your main CPD record. Below is a quick how-to for documenting these experiences so they genuinely contribute to your development and overall compliance.

Identify your unstructured activities

Look beyond classroom sessions and webinars. Informal CPD can include:

• Reading professional magazines
• Exploring relevant case studies
• Engaging in peer mentoring
• Reviewing practice-related research or news

According to CPD UK, informal CPD is often referred to as self-directed learning, covering any activity where you proactively build skills without a formal curriculum (CPD UK). If you want to understand how it fits alongside formal programs, see our guide on structured unstructured cpd.

Gather evidence of your learning

Even though informal learning lacks attendance sheets, you can still note:

• Date and duration of the activity
• Links to articles, podcasts, or case study references
• Brief summary of the topic and why it was relevant

Evidence can be as simple as saving a PDF of an article or taking a screenshot of a podcast playlist. This approach ensures you possess some form of proof if you ever need to demonstrate compliance to your professional body or during a cpd audit preparation.

Use reflection for deeper insights

Mere note-taking is rarely enough to show what you gained from an activity. Include a short reflection stating how the knowledge will influence your practice. LSF Global suggests that ongoing dialogue, rather than a one-time checklist, fosters continuous learning (LSF Global).

Below is a quick reflection template you could adapt:

Record your thoughts soon after each activity to keep them fresh. Your future self will thank you during annual CPD reviews.

Create a simple tracking log

Set up a dedicated CPD log or use software that centralises these records. Tools such as Cloud Assess or Tovuti can generate automatic progress reports, even for informal training (Coursebox). You could also adopt a spreadsheet—whatever feels most natural.

Key fields to include in your log:

1. Activity name (e.g. reading, coaching)
2. Date and time spent
3. Outcomes or significant points
4. Any supporting documentation
5. Personal reflections

By logging these details promptly, you reduce the risk of missed hours, which could lead to cpd non-compliance risk.

Integrate your records with compliance

Finally, merge your informal CPD information into your formal compliance structure. You might need to show a balanced mix of structured and unstructured CPD in your annual reports. Talk with your practice leader about how your workplace can embed self-directed learning into an internal cpd program strategy. In many firms, practice managers can help ensure both formal and informal hours are recognised.

Recap and next step

1. Pinpoint the unstructured parts of your daily learning.
2. Keep basic evidence of each activity.
3. Reflect on how new insights shape your approach.
4. Log everything in an easy-to-review system.
5. Link informal CPD to your formal reporting.

Make it a habit to document informal CPD as soon as you complete it. Over time, you will accumulate a rich, verifiable record that can reinforce your professional standing and highlight your ongoing commitment to growth.