REWARD
Jenny Docherty, Apprenticeship and Funding Lead, Housing 21, discusses how apprenticeships and continuous professional development (CPD) are essential in building fulfilling and rewarding careers
Learning at Work 2023 Report , 74% of employees said that opportunities for learning and development positively impacted their mental wellbeing 4 . The sense of progress and empowerment gained from participating in CPD contributes to lower stress levels and greater overall life satisfaction. Mind, the UK’s leading mental health charity, reinforces this connection, highlighting that a sense of purpose, achievement and control are key protective factors for mental health. In a world where one in four people in England experience a mental health problem each year, CPD becomes more than a professional necessity – it’s a powerful tool for building resilience, confidence and a healthier, more balanced life. For employers, supporting CPD is a strategic investment. It enhances employee engagement, fosters a culture of learning and ensures the organisation remains compliant and competitive. In a sector where errors can lead to financial penalties and reputational damage, having a well-trained payroll team isn’t optional. It’s essential. Additionally, CPD supports succession planning. By developing internal talent, organisations can reduce reliance on external recruitment and ensure leadership continuity. This is particularly important in payroll, where organisational knowledge and trust are built over time. Organisations that invest in CPD report
According to the Office for National Statistics, over 70% of UK workers in 2024 required upskilling or reskilling to meet the evolving demands of their role 3 . Effective CPD enables individuals to respond confidently to these changes, ensuring both personal competence and organisational compliance. CPD has moved beyond a neat logbook of mundane sessions individuals were ‘voluntold’ to attend and is now an integral part of a professional’s role, demanding a proactive and strategic approach to maintaining currency in your field. Effective CPD is a powerful catalyst for both career progression and personal growth. By actively engaging and taking personal accountability
24% higher employee satisfaction and 30% lower turnover rates, according to Skills England 5 . Conclusion In a world of constant change, the payroll profession must remain agile, informed and future- focussed. Apprenticeships and CPD aren’t just tools for individual development – they’re strategic levers for organisational success. For all professionals, embracing these opportunities means staying ahead of the curve, delivering greater value to employers and shaping the future of the profession. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take the next step in your career, now is the time to invest in learning. n Links corner 1. Participation in education, training and employment age 16 to 18: https:// ow.ly/oaSB50WveVm 2. Apprenticeship technical funding guide from August 2025: https:// ow.ly/61FQ50WveXP 3. Understanding skill and qualification suitability in the labour market, UK: August 2024: https://ow.ly/JNxR50Wvf1o
for CPD, individuals: l sharpen their skills
l stay ahead of industry changes l position themselves for new opportunities. Beyond the workplace, CPD can foster confidence, improve adaptability and harness a growth mindset – qualities which empower individuals to take on challenges and find greater satisfaction personally, not just in work. Engaging in regular development and learning is strongly linked to improved mental health and job satisfaction. When individuals feel competent and in control of their careers, they’re more resilient, motivated and fulfilled. According to the Chartered Institute of Professional Development‘s
4. Flexible and hybrid working practices in 2023: Employer and employee perspectives: https:// ow.ly/5uSM50Wvf4a
5. Skills England: Sector evidence on the growth and skills offer: https://ow.ly/ bemv50Wvf6P.
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| Professional in Payroll, Pensions and Reward |
Issue 113 | September 2025
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