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Why was the Institute of CPD founded?

Founded in 1995 by Jonathan Harris CBE FRICS, the Institute of Continuing Professional Development (iCPD) was established to formally recognise individuals who demonstrate a personal commitment to their own Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and continued lifelong learning.

This comes in the form of awards and post nominals, which bring instant social credibility.

Pioneered as a cross-professional institute, iCPD welcomes individuals from all professional backgrounds, disciplines and employment status. It’s primary goal is to support and encourage any individual who wishes to publicly demonstrate their commitment to CPD

Founded in 1995 by Jonathan Harris CBE FRICS, the Institute of Continuing Professional Development (iCPD) was established to formally recognise individuals who demonstrate a personal commitment to their own Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and continued lifelong learning.

This comes in the form of awards and post nominals, which bring instant social credibility.

Pioneered as a cross-professional institute, iCPD welcomes individuals from all professional backgrounds, disciplines and employment status. It’s primary goal is to support and encourage any individual who wishes to publicly demonstrate their commitment to CPD

About Jonathan

Jonathan’s career has spanned 60 years and has encompassed a variety of fields. Initially working as a qualified chartered surveyor, and subsequently as President of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), he developed a passion for further education and lifelong learning.

Working alongside various professionals, Jonathan discovered that the majority of individuals often undertake far more CPD than required by their professional institute.

In addition, there were many in the workforce continually learning everyday, who were not members of a professional membership organisation, yet aspired to be recognised as proactive professionals.

In the 1990’s Jonathan established the Institute of iCPD, as part of the Harris Foundation for Lifelong Learning, as a result of his lifelong work in creating learning opportunities for professionals.

About Jonathan

Jonathan’s career has spanned 60 years and has encompassed a variety of fields. Initially working as a qualified chartered surveyor, and subsequently as President of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), he developed a passion for further education and lifelong learning.

Working alongside various professionals, Jonathan discovered that the majority of individuals often undertake far more CPD than required by their professional institute.

In addition, there were many in the workforce continually learning everyday, who were not members of a professional membership organisation, yet aspired to be recognised as proactive professionals.

In the 1990’s Jonathan established the Institute of iCPD, as part of the Harris Foundation for Lifelong Learning, as a result of his lifelong work in creating learning opportunities for professionals.

Both organisations have transformed the historic notion of CPD, and revolutionised the recognition individuals deserve for their continued learning. This has resulted in a significant shift in the CPD landscape. ​





“It is my firm belief that if you go over and above with your professional development, then you should be recognised.”
Jonathan Harris CBE
Founder of the Institute of Continuing Professional Development




Continuing a Legacy of Lifelong Learning

Back in the 1990’s the institute’s mission was to support and inspire ‘traditional professionals’, and individuals, who were undertaking CPD either in a formal capacity for a professional institute, or as self motivated learners. Today, iCPD is in continuous pursuit of widening its umbrella and catering to both conventional and contemporary careers. Our membership welcomes anyone and everyone despite their specialism, age or stage. We strive to be exactly what we envision for our members – excellent and relevant.

In addition to our membership services, iCPD is a philanthropic organisation, with many ongoing charitable initiatives. We help make continuous learning accessible and affordable for people from all walks of life, regardless of background, educational attainment, or economic status. To this end, 25% of all membership fees go to the Harris Foundation For Lifelong Learning, (link) which is a non-profit educational charitable trust.Your iCPD membership serves you, and others, to be the best version of themselves.

Continuing a Legacy of Lifelong Learning

Back in the 1990’s the institute’s mission was to support and inspire ‘traditional professionals’, and individuals, who were undertaking CPD either in a formal capacity for a professional institute, or as self motivated learners. Today, iCPD is in continuous pursuit of widening its umbrella and catering to both conventional and contemporary careers. Our membership welcomes anyone and everyone despite their specialism, age or stage. We strive to be exactly what we envision for our members – excellent and relevant.

In addition to our membership services, iCPD is a philanthropic organisation, with many ongoing charitable initiatives. We help make continuous learning accessible and affordable for people from all walks of life, regardless of background, educational attainment, or economic status. To this end, 25% of all membership fees go to the Harris Foundation For Lifelong Learning, (link) which is a non-profit educational charitable trust.Your iCPD membership serves you, and others, to be the best version of themselves.