As a profession, social workers are committed to offering the highest quality professional services to the public. One way social workers demonstrate this commitment is through the completion of continuing professional education (CPE).
The completion of CPE is not only a requirement of annual registration renewal but also an ethical responsibility. In fact, a core value in the CASW Code of Ethics (2005) is competence in professional practice - “social workers have a responsibility to maintain professional proficiency, to continually strive to increase their professional knowledge and skills, and to apply new knowledge in practice commensurate with their level of professional education, skill and competency…” (p. 8).
NLCSW's CPE Policy outlines a social worker's responsibility for managing their CPE. Recognizing the diversity within the profession, the policy covers a broad range of activities and provides flexibility in meeting the annual CPE requirement.
Random CPE audits are conducted annually at the time of registration renewal. The number of CPE hours continually exceeds policy requirements, confirming that social workers throughout Newfoundland and Labrador are committed to lifelong learning.