Continuous Professional Development
All members of the Scottish Tourist Guides Association strive to maintain and further their guiding skills and knowledge on all aspects of Scotland. In doing this our members take up the latest events offered by the STGA, universities, colleges and other accredited institutions in the form of structured and themed courses and conferences, led by recognised specialists in their fields. Our members are involved in lectures, tutorials and field studies relevant to leading groups, small and large in Scotland, in addition to undertaking self-directed study from books, journals, television and radio.
To facilitate the learning process, to provide recognition of our members’ efforts, to promote collaboration within our membership and to support our industry partners in assuring quality, the STGA has introduced a voluntary Continuing Professional Development [CPD] Scheme. Participating members select CPD activities which are relevant to their individual businesses and specialisms. These range widely from practical courses in First Aid and voice training to knowledge-based studies on all aspects of Scottish life and culture.
Those Blue Badge members who have the new accreditation symbol (thistle enclosed in a laurel wreath) in the Guide List 2012 maintain a log of their CPD activities which is submitted annually to the STGA office for spot-checking. A minimum of 40 hours per annum is required under the Scheme. At least 20 hours must be verifiable, backed by certificates of attendance by the learning providers or other independent evidence.
It is intended to extend the CPD Scheme to the STGA Regional Affiliate (Green Badge) Members in the near future.
The STGA runs a programme of events over the winter months. In 2010 these included:
- Special Needs
- Food and Drink
- First Aid
- Whisky
- WFTGA certified Cruise Guide Training
- Familiarisation Trips to regions, cities and visitor attractions.
If you have any questions about the CPD scheme, please contact the Business Support Manager