Home > Professional Update > Deferral Process Process What do I need to know and do? Your Professional Context Deferral Process Direct Submissions Professional Learning What is Professional Learning? Using Evidence of Impact Professional Review and Development Coaching and Mentoring Awards and Professional Recognition Research and Practitioner Enquiry Research Practitioner Enquiry The Deferral Process We recognise that there will be circumstances which make completion of the Professional Update process within the designated timescale difficult, and extensions to the five-year sign-off period may be required. These circumstances may include: career breaks; extended illness; maternity/ paternity/ adoption leave; occasional supply work. If a registrant is unable to complete the process in the designated year, then they will have the opportunity to request a deferral. They should make this request to their employer/local authority who will notify GTCS of their decision (via MyGTCS where this is used). Deferrals will normally be granted for one year.