IPReg findings highlight evolving practice needs
The Intellectual Property Regulation Board (IPReg) has published the findings report from its call for evidence and feedback, a key stage in its ongoing education review.
While trade-mark specific responses broadly supported the content of IPReg’s existing competency framework, they highlighted a need to reflect the increasingly commercial and multidisciplinary nature of the practice.
Responses showed that trade mark attorneys increasingly need to understand online brand protection, enforcement, clearance and risk assessment, as well as the interaction between trade marks and related fields including copyright, design rights, marketing, data protection and AI.
There was strong support for ensuring qualification routes stay fit for the future amid more complex, changing practice contexts. While the existing competency frameworks remain relevant, there were calls for refinements to reflect developments such as the increasing use of generative AI, changing client expectations and business models, and related emerging needs.
A consistent message throughout the findings was that trainees’ practical workplace experience is central to developing their competence. Respondents emphasised the importance of access to structured supervised practice, the opportunity to engage in real client work, and receiving mentoring and feedback.
The call, which ran from February to April 2026, received a total of 87 responses from trade mark and patent attorneys, trainees, employers, education and examination providers, professional bodies, consumer representatives and others across the IP sector.
Respondents were asked for feedback on the following themes: changing practice needs, learning and development cultures, the integration of professional experience, learning and assessment, and widening entry to the professions.
CITMA contributed our views to the review, which can be read in full here.
IPReg will use the responses, alongside wider research and stakeholder engagement activities, to inform the development of its review proposals. It will then conduct a public consultation, which is expected to run from late 2026.
The full findings report and summary are available on IPReg's Education Review webpage.