How to Plan a Successful Corporate Training Day

A well-planned corporate training day delivers real value to your organisation—improved skills, stronger teams, and measurable outcomes. Poor planning, however, can waste time and budget while frustrating participants. This guide covers everything you need for successful training events.

Define Your Training Objectives

Before booking a venue or planning logistics, clarify what success looks like:

Skills development: What specific capabilities should participants gain?
Knowledge transfer: What information must be communicated?
Behavioural change: What should participants do differently afterward?
Team building: How should team dynamics improve?
Compliance: What mandatory requirements must be met?

Clear objectives guide every subsequent decision, from venue selection to content design.

Choose the Right Venue

Your professional development venue significantly impacts learning outcomes. Consider:

Location and Accessibility

Central location minimises travel time for all participants
Easy access from major roads and public transport
Adequate parking for all attendees
Accessible facilities for participants with disabilities

Room Configuration

Match the room setup to your training methodology:

Classroom style: Best for lecture-based content with note-taking
U-shape: Ideal for interactive workshops and discussions
Cabaret/rounds: Perfect for group activities and team exercises
Theatre: Suits large presentations without written activities

Technical Requirements

Ensure the venue provides:

Quality projection and screens visible from all seats
Reliable Wi-Fi for online resources and activities
Microphones for larger groups
Power outlets accessible to participants
Whiteboard or flipchart facilities

Plan Your Agenda

Structure your training day for maximum engagement and retention:

Timing Principles

Start time: 9:00am allows for traffic and settling in
Session length: 60-90 minutes maximum before breaks
Morning tea: 15-20 minutes mid-morning
Lunch: 45-60 minutes for meals and informal networking
Afternoon tea: 15-20 minutes to combat post-lunch energy dip
Finish time: 4:00-4:30pm respects work-life balance

Content Flow

Morning: Schedule complex or demanding content when energy is highest
After lunch: Include interactive activities to maintain engagement
Late afternoon: Lighter content, Q&A, and action planning

Variety and Engagement

Mix delivery methods to maintain attention:

Presentations (limit to 20 minutes before interaction)
Group discussions and exercises
Case studies and scenarios
Hands-on practice activities
Q&A sessions
Individual reflection time

Catering Considerations

Food and beverage choices affect participant energy and satisfaction:

Morning Tea

Tea and coffee (including decaf options)
Light options: fruit, pastries, or healthy snacks
Avoid overly heavy options that cause energy crashes

Lunch

Balanced options with protein and vegetables
Lighter choices that don't cause afternoon drowsiness
Cater for dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, halal)
Consider working lunch format if time is tight

Afternoon Tea

Energy-boosting options without sugar crash
Fresh fruit alongside any sweet items
Additional tea and coffee service

Prepare Your Materials

Well-organised materials support learning and demonstrate professionalism:

Printed workbooks or handouts for note-taking
Name badges for networking and group activities
Pens and notepads if participants need to write
Presentation slides tested on venue equipment
Backup copies of all digital materials
Evaluation forms for feedback collection

On-the-Day Execution

Arrive Early

Allow 60-90 minutes for setup before participants arrive
Test all AV equipment with your actual presentations
Confirm room layout matches your requirements
Set up registration area and materials
Brief venue staff on timing for catering

Welcome and Housekeeping

Welcome participants as they arrive
Cover housekeeping: bathrooms, emergency exits, phone policy
Introduce the agenda and expectations
Establish ground rules for participation

Maintain Energy

Monitor energy levels and adjust if needed
Use energiser activities if attention flags
Take breaks on schedule even if running behind
Encourage movement during longer sessions

Post-Training Follow-Up

Training value is realised through application, not attendance:

Send follow-up resources within 48 hours
Share presentation slides and additional materials
Provide action plan templates
Schedule follow-up check-ins to reinforce learning
Collect and analyse feedback for future improvements

Training Venues in Brisbane South

KP Centre in Shailer Park provides professional training facilities for Brisbane South organisations:

Auditorium One: Large training events up to 350 theatre-style or 200 classroom
Auditorium Two: Workshops and seminars up to 200 theatre or 100 classroom
Flexible configurations: Classroom, U-shape, cabaret, and theatre setups available
Professional AV: Built-in sound, lighting, and projection
Free parking: 200 spaces for attendees
Catering flexibility: Arrange morning tea and lunch with your preferred caterer