PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT (PPD)

Since its inception, the IST has recognised that broad knowledge, diverse skills and lifelong learning are vital in the practice of science and technology.

As embodied in its’ Mission Statement, the Institute of Science & Technology exists to promote and enhance the professional status and development of technical staff by formal recognition of their skills and qualifications and one of its’ stated goals isto maintain a system for monitoring and recording the continuing professional development of its members.

As part of its commitment to these principles and goals, in line with changes in the world of work and within the IST, a service has been devised to record members’ professional and personal development. This Professional and Personal Development scheme (PPD) is open to all IST members irrespective of grade of membership, country of residence and type of employment and includes those who have completed the IST’s CPD award through HEaTED. For an introductory period, this service will be available at no extra cost.

The benefits for members include:

• helping them to fulfill their existing or future role more effectively
• enabling them to identify and plan the development of their knowledge and competence in the wider context of Lifelong Learning
• demonstrating professional status

A member’s PPD record will also be taken into account when applying for a higher grade of membership.

Most IST members continue their professional development through study, training, attending externally-provided courses, symposia, seminars, workshops and conferences. They may also write and/or read technical papers and deliver projects, specialised training, etc. These activities are, in many cases, supplemented by flexible learning and in-house training. Members also achieve personal development in other areas of their lives, e.g. learning a foreign language, voluntary work with young people, etc.

Events and activities that lead to PPD will be awarded points based on duration of the event/activity and its value to the individual. Members who participate in the PPD scheme will be expected to acquire a minimum of 20 PPD points in a two-year cycle. The aim of the IST’s scheme is to recognise formally and record the development that members achieve by the issue of PPD Certificates.

Documents for download:
General PPD Flyer
Main PPD document
PPD Forms
Registered Practictioners Scheme
Registered Practictioners Application Form

Please contact us for more information about the Professional and Personal Development Scheme and, if you work in HE, about the IST/HEaTED CPD award.