Outstanding Achievement in Training

Minimum Entrants
A minimum of three entrants is required for the category to progress to judging.

National Awards Eligibility
The winner is eligible to enter the AHA National Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Training.

About the Award
This category recognises venues that demonstrate a strong commitment to training and development and are working to raise professional standards across the hospitality industry.
The category is open to all venues, excluding group hotels entering as one group.

Submission Requirements
A written submission of no more than 1,000 words is required, supported by relevant documents and images.

Judging Process

Training & Development Plan

• Provide an overview of your training and development plan and explain how it aligns with your venue’s strategy
• Outline the key objectives of your training and development program

Internal & External Training

• Describe internal training provided to team members and the learning outcomes achieved
• Outline the full scope of training provided, from customer service through to formal training requirements such as RSA
• Describe external training provided, including the external training provider and learning outcomes
• Describe pathways and opportunities for staff to progress into leadership roles
• Describe training delivered around environmental sustainability and best-practice initiatives

Assessment of the Plan

• Explain how employee performance and progression are assessed
• Describe how individual employee development is supported
• Provide examples of increased employee skills achieved as a direct result of the training program
• Provide evidence of employee retention outcomes
• Explain how the training and development program is regularly evaluated to ensure it meets or exceeds current industry standards and expectations

Training & Development Impact

• Explain how the program contributes to raising the quality and professionalism of employees across the industry
• Explain how the commitment to training and development benefits employees
• Explain how the program supports the venue’s ongoing success and competitiveness

Supporting Documents

• Sample training plan
• Sample training calendar
• Staff feedback on the quality and outcomes of training provided
• Relevant images and supporting documentation

Submission Deadline: Monday, 14 December 2026