I enjoy a conversation that makes me think. One that keeps coming around for me is whether we should rename our retreats as “courses” or stick with ‘Retreat’ as the headline.
It’s a fair question. The content of the retreats is CPD accredited, with clear learning objectives, structured activities and opportunities for professional development, but these are clearly set among deliberate pauses and emotionally regulating activities, and we foster a sense of “stepping away”, with the physical and psychological separation from immediate workplace pressures.
For those applying for study leave or CPD funding, describing the event as a course can sometimes feel more straightforward and familiar, yet many of us who advocate for wellbeing, self-care and sustainable careers feel that it’s important to keep the word retreat.
Retreat suggests something different – but it is also non-specific (with a wide variation in assumed meaning). It acknowledges that professional development is not only about acquiring knowledge or technical skills. Sometimes the most valuable learning comes from creating space to think, reflect, reconnect with values, gain perspective and develop greater self-awareness. These are not luxuries; they are essential foundations for effective practice, good decision-making and career longevity. I stand by my assertion that the benefits of intentionally retreating are central to the whole experience and the “CPD course content” is there as the supporting act.
Interestingly, in the corporate world, retreats are widely accepted and often attract significant investment. Organisations use them for strategic planning, leadership development, team building, innovation and project development. Time away from the day-to-day is recognised as a worthwhile investment in both people and performance.
So, how come so many people working in healthcare still seem uncomfortable with the idea?
Why do we so readily accept training, courses and conferences, yet remain hesitant about activities that support self-regulation, reflection and personal development? Why can taking deliberate time out to restore ourselves sometimes feel harder to justify than working harder, learning more or doing one more thing?
Perhaps the real question is not whether a retreat should be called a course. Or another name.. (a rose would smell so sweet by any other name after all…?)
Perhaps it is more about whether we are ready to recognise that caring for ourselves, reflecting on our work and investing in our own development are legitimate and valuable parts of continuing professional development in their own right.
What are your thoughts?
