Specification CPD from RIBA-approved Providers

Approved by the Royal Institute of British Architects, this CPD delivers industry-leading knowledge on fire and smoke curtains. This seminar is packed with the most essential and up to date knowledge on fire and smoke curtains to ensure you remain safe and compliant. Why attend this CPD session:Understand the regulations and standards surrounding fire and smoke curtains, and de-bunk common misconceptions.Gain industry-leading knowledge from our technical team.Understand the latest advancements in the fire curtain industry.Understand the variety of applications and how they can be implemented on your projects.What you will learn:An introduction to fire and smoke curtains.An overview of how these products are installed, operated, and maintained.The common applications of fire curtains and how they perform.Understand the regulations and standards to keep people and buildings safe, and you legally compliant.

Designing perimeter fencing and boundary security for educational buildings is one of the most complex challenges faced by architects working in the education sector. School fencing design, college campus security and university perimeter strategy must respond to safeguarding obligations, health and safety requirements, planning constraints, placemaking principles and long-term operational management, while continuing to support inclusive, welcoming learning environments.This RIBA-accredited CPD is designed specifically for architects and architectural practices involved in the design of schools, colleges, universities, student accommodation and educational campuses. It addresses a significant gap in current CPD provision by focusing on early-stage design thinking, safeguarding-led perimeter strategy and planning-friendly boundary design, rather than product-led solutions.The session reframes fencing and perimeter systems as part of a wider architectural, landscape and safeguarding strategy, supporting better outcomes at RIBA Stages 0–3 and reducing the risk of redesign, delay and cost escalation at later stages.Educational projects require architects to balance safeguarding and security with openness, visibility and community integration. Increasing scrutiny from local planning authorities, education clients and safeguarding leads means that perimeter design decisions must be robust, defensible and clearly integrated into the overall architectural concept.Many education projects encounter challenges because perimeter strategy is considered too late in the design process, often resulting in:Planning objectionsCompromised placemakingSafeguarding gapsRedesign and cost escalation during constructionThis CPD supports architects in developing risk-informed perimeter strategies at concept and masterplanning stage, enabling clearer decision-making and improved coordination with landscape architects, engineers and specialist consultants.Learning OutcomesBy completing this CPD, architects will be able to:Design perimeter fencing and boundary systems appropriate to schools, colleges and university campusesUnderstand the distinction between safeguarding, security and supervision in educational environmentsApply zoning and movement control principles to education site layoutsBalance safety, aesthetics and planning requirements in boundary designSpecify fencing systems with greater clarity and reduced professional riskIntegrate fencing with access control, lighting, CCTV and landscape designReduce late-stage redesign, RFIs and site coordination issuesEducation Sector FocusPrimary and Secondary SchoolsThe session explores safeguarding-led perimeter strategies that support pupil safety during school hours while maintaining visibility, supervision and a non-institutional appearance. It considers how boundary design influences movement, arrival and departure, and day-to-day site management.Further Education CollegesFor further education campuses, the CPD examines perimeter strategies for open and mixed-use sites, addressing extended hours of use, public interfaces and behavioural risk. The focus is on balancing openness with control through early design decisions.Universities and Campus EnvironmentsFor universities and student accommodation, the CPD considers campus-scale perimeter strategy, layered security approaches and landscape-led design. It explores when fencing can be avoided, and when it is required, how it can be justified through planning and design quality.Safeguarding-Led DesignA key focus of the CPD is the distinction between safeguarding and security, an area frequently misunderstood during education projects. The session challenges common assumptions and helps architects understand how perimeter design influences movement, supervision and risk management, rather than focusing solely on physical resistance.This approach aligns with education safeguarding policies, DfE guidance and architectural best practice, enabling architects to communicate perimeter decisions clearly to clients and stakeholders.Planning, Aesthetics and Community AcceptanceBoundary treatments are often among the most scrutinised elements of an education scheme at planning stage. This CPD provides architects with guidance on how perimeter design decisions can be defended through:Planning-friendly design principlesVisual permeability, height and materialityContext-sensitive boundary strategiesClear planning justification and narrativeThe session supports stronger outcomes in planning submissions and Design and Access Statements.Specification, Coordination and BuildabilityThe CPD also addresses fencing specification for education projects, focusing on common coordination challenges that lead to redesign or dispute. It highlights the importance of early decisions around foundations, levels, interfaces and long-term maintenance, supporting improved buildability and cost certainty.Format and DeliveryThis RIBA-accredited CPD is delivered as a 45–60 minute session, suitable for lunch-and-learn events, studio presentations and framework partner briefings. The content is case-study-led, design-focused and architect-centric, with no product promotion.SummaryThis CPD equips architects with the insight and confidence to design safe, compliant and welcoming educational environments through better perimeter and boundary design. It supports stronger early-stage decision-making, reduces professional risk and helps ensure safeguarding, planning and design quality are addressed holistically.

This seminar covers:Slip risks associated with floor applications.Causes of slip on a floor.Explanations of the physical tests available.Aftercare to maintain optimum slip resistance of a floor.This CPD provides valuable insights into various test methods and how to interpret the results, with a focus on UK preferences. It equips you with the knowledge to confidently identify and specify the most suitable flooring materials for your projects.

This session tackles one of the biggest challenges in modern fenestration design: how to meet multiple — and sometimes conflicting — Building Regulations without compromising real-world performance or design intent.Aimed at architects, specifiers, and design professionals, particularly those working across RIBA Stages 2 to 4, this CPD takes a practical, not theoretical, look at the realities of getting windows and doors to perform across a wide range of regulatory demands.The session explores how fenestration interacts with key Approved Documents, and how system choice and design strategies can support:Thermal performanceFire safetySecure designInclusive accessAesthetic intent and design flexibility— even when the regulations seem to pull in different directions.Using clear examples, we’ll look at how to balance compliance requirements with day-to-day design priorities, helping attendees understand where conflicts arise and how to make informed specification decisions that achieve both regulatory compliance and good performance in use.

This CPD is designed to equip attendees with in-depth knowledge of fibre cement roofing, focusing on its evolution, design principles, and seamless project integration across equestrian, industrial, and domestic sectors.Throughout the session, attendees will gain insights into the material's superior performance, including its durability, fire resistance, and sustainability credentials. Key learning outcomes include understanding technical specifications, design applications, and installation best practices, as well as exploring real-world case studies that illustrate the flexibility and aesthetic appeal of fibre cement roofing.Attendees will gain practical and technical knowledge to make informed decisions when specifying fibre cement for diverse projects, ensuring compliance with building regulations and advancing sustainable design.

This CPD provides architects and specifiers with a clear understanding of how to detail composite (aluminium & UPVC timber clad windows).Attendees will learn about the two main groups of composite windows on the market, and how to successfully install these products into both refurbishment and new build properties. We will also discuss the challenges and best practices when installing into different types of wall materials and structural openings.

Introduction to structural waterproofing, its importance, and relevance to architects. Best Practices, Waterproofing Standards and Insights from the PCA – Property Care Association Provided from a Surveying & Contracting Company.

This CPD is called Vitruvius Reimagined because it links classical ideals to modern-day regulatory challenges. Our goal is to help you navigate the Building Safety Act (BSA) confidently — especially around Gateway 2 and your role as Principal Designer. This session will guide you through the Building Safety Act, especially your potential duties when appointed as Principal Designer under the Building Regulations. We’ll focus on design responsibility, traceability, and collaboration with manufacturers to achieve safe compliance.

This CPD examines the role of boundary and fencing solutions as a fundamental component of modern construction design, rather than a late-stage or secondary consideration.The CPD explores how early engagement with boundary design can positively influence safety, compliance, aesthetics, sustainability, and long-term asset performance across residential, commercial, and public-realm developments.Attendees will gain insight into:The role of boundary fencing design within the wider built environment and planning contextKey fencing performance drivers, including security, durability, maintenance, and whole-life valueRelevant standards, regulations, and specification considerationsHow fencing boundary solutions can support architectural intent whilst meeting technical and compliance requirementsThe importance of early specification and cross-disciplinary collaboration to reduce risk, redesign, and late-stage value engineeringThe CPD is designed to support architects, specifiers, engineers, and contractors in making informed, balanced decisions when selecting fencing boundary systems that combine design quality, performance, and compliance.This session reflects a design-led, performance-driven approach to boundary solutions and underpins meaningful, value-adding conversations with the specification community.

The construction industry continues to change rapidly as sustainability becomes a key driver for design and specification. Clients expect more than just compliance, they want products that improve energy efficiency, meet net zero targets, and have a lower environmental impact.Doorsets play a much bigger role in this than many people realise. They affect thermal performance, acoustic control, fire safety and embodied carbon.This CPD will help Architects navigate the industry changes and understand how to specify doorsets that are responsibly sourced, legally compliant and sustainable. At the end of the CPD, delegates should know more about: Sustainable Timber sourcing and their impacts on the environmentSustainability regulations and certification schemesSpecifying sustainable doorsets 

The CPD presentation "Introduction to Roof Waterproofing" covers a range of essential topics that will appeal to both novice and experienced attendees.The presentation will delve into various roof types, waterproofing membranes, terminology, building regulations (including Approved Document L and Approved Document B), insulation, and British Standards.Whether you're new to the field or a seasoned professional, this session promises to offer new and interesting insights that will enhance your understanding of roof waterproofing.By the end of this CPD delegates should have:1. A comprehensive understanding of the topicGained a comprehensive understanding of different roof types, waterproofing membranes, terminology, building regulations, insulation, and British Standards as they relate to roof waterproofing.2. Have applicable knowledge on the topicBe able to apply the knowledge gained to identify the most suitable waterproofing solutions for different roof types and understand how building regulations and standards impact the waterproofing.3. Be able to communicate effectively on the subjectBe able to articulate the key terminology and best practices in roof waterproofing, enabling effective communication with stakeholders involved in the construction and maintenance of buildings.4. Understanding of Compliance and Quality AssuranceUnderstand the importance of compliance with building regulations, Approved Document L, Approved Document B, and British Standards to ensure high-quality and durable roof waterproofing solutions.5. Gained knowledge on the integration of insulation and waterproofingGained the ability to integrate insulation with waterproofing, considering the impact on energy efficiency and compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

This presentation explains how renewable bio liquid gas can be installed as an alternative to oil and other fuels for premises located off the mains gas grid. It talks about factors that affect their use, environmental and cost benefits.By the end of the seminar, delegates will be able to:- Understand what LPG and renewable bio liquid gas are and when they can be specified- Understand and identify where renewable bio liquid gas can be physically installed looking at siting and safety issues- Understand the environmental benefits for using renewable bio liquid gas- Understand the key legislation and codes of practice that apply

In this seminar, delegates will learn about:- Flat 'warm' roofs – the choice- Pros and Cons- Design and site considerations- Mechanical fixed vs Adhered systems- Innovation – Field fastened system- The Details- The Benefits- Meaningful WarrantiesThis CPD can be delivered to you live and remotely.

This CPD presentation is focusing on facade types, applications and products.Offering a detailed understanding of regulations and requirements together with testing and classification standards used for assessing system performances.

This seminar provides an in-depth look at a standard issued by BRE in 2024. This security standard for steel doors provides a barrier against maundering attacks and addresses violent criminals with the aim of harming or committing smash-and-grab theft of large value.

The changing face of the workforce means that traditional office environments are morphing into more agile spaces. Fixtures and fittings need to be able to flex accordingly. This CPD looks at options for non-adhesive flooring solutions and examines what is available for the commercial workplace, including magnetic flooring systems. Non-adhesive flooring as a system is considered from the perspectives of sustainability, design flexibility and operational impacts.