Lifelong Learning

What does the RTPI mean by Lifelong Learning?

Lifelong Learning is at the heart of RTPI educational philosophy. This section explains what we mean by Lifelong Learning and why it is important for individuals, employers and the profession.

Lifelong Learning has been defined in many different ways. It is frequently used to refer to learning undertaken after a period of formal education and/or schooling, and is often taken to refer primarily to work-based learning or learning derived from experience.

However the RTPI takes a much broader view of Lifelong Learning, as referring to education and learning opportunities throughout an individuals lifetime and career. Regardless of whether the learning experience is personal or shared, aimed at a formal qualification or less formal, in a workplace or at home, Lifelong Learning as supported by the RTPI is learning directed at improving an individuals understanding of, engagement with, and practice of spatial planning at any life or career stage.

Lifelong Learning and Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

For many years, members of the RTPI have committed, by virtue of the requirements of professional membership, to undertake Continuing Professional Development (CPD). CPD is vitally important to the profession and its professional profile, but it is only one part of the RTPI's vision for lifelong learning, which encompasses learning opportunities throughout an individuals lifetime and career.

Why is Lifelong Learning important?

Lifelong Learning should have value for individuals, employers, and the profession alike:

For individuals, Lifelong Learning is a personal commitment that is as much about your own desire for learning and improvement as it is about your status as a professional. Lifelong Learning ensures that your knowledge and skills stay relevant throughout your professional career, supporting a wider range of career and employment opportunities.

For employers, supporting Lifelong Learning for your employees is a way to ensure the best possible professional outcomes; and thus the reputation and standing of your organisation.

For the profession, a culture of Lifelong Learning ensures that planning professionals are able to respond to new spatial challenges whenever they arise; are willing and able to support new entrants to the profession in their own learning; and that the profession continues to be held in a positive light by all users of the planning system.

Although the RTPI is based predominantly in the United Kingdom, its work, impact and membership is international and has global implications. Our commitment to Lifelong Learning therefore does not assume any local or national context, but should have relevance for all RTPI members and stakeholders worldwide.

The RTPI vision and aims for lifelong learning are set out in the Lifelong Learning Strategy.