19 March 2026
The AOP is calling on its members and the wider optometry profession to share their views on the General Optical Council’s (GOC) proposed reforms to its continuing professional development (CPD) scheme.
Practitioners can share their thoughts on the proposed reforms, which were announced in January, through a survey that the AOP is running. The survey, which will take no longer than three minutes to complete, will be open until 31 March.
The survey is one part of a programme of activity that the AOP is completing in relation to the proposed reforms, with other engagement including discussions with its Council and committees, that aim to “ensure the profession’s voice is represented in the AOP’s response to the consultation.”
The GOC’s proposals detail a shift away from the current minimum points-based system towards an outcomes-focused approach that it says will give registrants greater flexibility in designing their own CPD. The consultation, which will close on 19 April, also details a role for business registrants in supporting learning and development.
GOC consultation on CPD reforms launches
The proposals suggest shifting away from a minimum points-based system towards a more outcome-focused approach
The AOP is garnering its views from its Council and committees on particular topics in the proposals, including: clarity on what evidence will be required for audits and how the process will operate, concerns that an overly prescriptive approach to linking CPD activities with the proposed development plan could limit opportunities to pursue broader professional interests,support for members who do not have access to team-based or collaborative learning environments,the potential to reduce unnecessary training by tailoring CPD to scope of practice, particularly for those working solely in secondary or domiciliary settings, and the expectation on registrants to assess the quality of educational value of CPD in the absence of provider audits.
The survey is open to all practising AOP members, including optometrists and dispensing opticians, as well as the wider profession.
On the reforms, AOP clinical and policy director, Dr Peter Hampson, said: “The proposals represent a significant shift in how CPD is structured and delivered across the profession. Greater flexibility and a focus on meaningful learning outcomes are welcome, but it is essential that any new framework supports clinicians in a practical and proportionate way.”
Hampson highlighted that the AOP’s survey “gives members and the wider profession the opportunity to tell us what will work in practice and where further clarity or safeguards may be needed.
“Their insights will shape our response and ensure their experiences are fully reflected,” he added.
To support members’ understanding of the consultation, the AOP has published a policy briefing.
The GOC’s proposals for reform to Continuing Professional Development
The AOP’s summary – and what it means for our members
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