Hi Trev
I am the communications officer at the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists and just saw your post. I asked our CPD officer about your question and this is her reply:
"In short, a mix of the two is best!
Podiatrists are not necessary expected to attend courses, but because they are required to maintain/update their skills and knowledge, courses (whether short or long, internal or external, attended or distance learning) just happen to be one of the best ways to achieve this. Self-directed learning (or private study) is highly recommended in addition to mainstream CPD activities."
If you did want to attend a Conference I would highly recommend the Society's Annual Conference which this year is in Glasgow from the 11-13 of October and features Professor Brain Cox OBE as a our key note speaker not to mention a number of major Podiatry Experts including David Armstrong, Charlie Archer, Iain McInness and Jim Woodburn. Plus Scottish Health Secretary Nicola Sturgeon. Also for attending the 3 days you can gain a total of 28 CPD points.
For further informtion and a loom at the full programme please see
www.scpconference.com
Hope this helps.
Adam
at@scpod.org