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Consultation launched on reforms to GOC CPD Scheme

22 January 2026

The General Optical Council (GOC) has launched a consultation on proposed reforms to its Continuing Professional Development (CPD), with changes expected to begin from the 2028–30 CPD cycle.

The proposals would shift the CPD scheme away from a minimum points-based system towards one which is more ‘outcome-focused,’ giving registrants greater freedom to design their own approach.

The GOC would also leverage the role of business registrants in supporting CPD, and proposes to end provider approval and audit arrangements amid high levels of satisfaction.

Some aspects of the CPD scheme – such as the minimum points requirements – are prescribed in legislation through the CPD Rules 2021.

As there is unlikely to be parliamentary time to amend this prior to the start of the next CPD cycle in 2028, the GOC has proposed a phased approach to reform.

Proposed changes from the start of the 2028–30 CPD cycle include:

  • Adjusting the allocation of points for different activities to reduce the overall volume of CPD activities needed to achieve the required points total.
  • Using the points system to better incentivise the pursuit of post-registration qualifications.
  • Reviewing the CPD ‘domains’ – the topics CPD must cover over the cycle.
  • Removing requirements that may hinder registrants’ use of self-directed CPD, including ending the need for minimum provider-led sessions and the need for a reflective statement for each self-directed activity.
  • Amending the GOC’s Standards for Optical Businesses to leverage the role of business registrants in supporting CPD.
  • Reducing the number of CPD events requiring prior approval from the GOC before CPD providers can convert from provisionally approved to fully approved status.
  • Phasing out CPD provider audits, where providers’ records are assessed to ensure they are providing good quality learning, and withdrawing the GOC’s Standards for CPD Providers.

Further proposals, subject to legislative change, include:

  • Abolishing the points system entirely
  • A new approach to compliance with registrants making an annual declaration as part of registration renewal that they have carried out sufficient learning to maintain their competence and kept adequate records.
  • Ending the need for the GOC to approve CPD providers.

The consultation will be open until 19 April 2026.

Visit the GOC’s consultation hub for more information, and to respond.

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