Programming workshop checklist

A programming workshop runs smoothly when teaching, technology, and room logistics are planned together. Set the level before preparing exercises, confirm instructors early, and test every laptop, charger, adapter, and software setup before participants arrive. Allow time for registration, dietary requirements, handouts, and a clear explanation of the schedule and safety rules. This checklist takes you from choosing the date and room to opening the doors and teaching the first programming concepts.

The plan, step by step

Every task with its own sub-checklist, in the order you'll actually need them.

Preparations

  • Set the date and program

    2 people

  • Reserve a room

  • Arrange teachers and supervisors

    2 people

  • Determine workshop level

    2 people

  • Prepare teaching materials

    2 people

  • Test exercises and examples

    2 people

  • Send invitations

  • Process registrations

  • Collect dietary requirements

  • Send participant information

  • Reserve equipment and adapters

  • Check the shopping list

  • Do the shopping

    2 people

  • Test laptops and software

    2 people

  • Print handouts

  • Chill the groceries

Event

  • Open room

    2 people

  • Set up tables and chairs

    3 people

  • Set out laptops and chargers

    2 people

  • Connect the projector and screen

    2 people

  • Test Wi-Fi and network

    2 people

  • Set up registration desk

  • Receive participants

    2 people

  • Explain the schedule and safety rules

  • Explain basic programming concepts

  • Assist with the first rehearsal

    3 people

  • Serve break drinks

    2 people

  • Refill drinks

  • Guide the second rehearsal

    3 people

  • Explain the project assignment

  • Manage projects

    4 people

  • Serve dinner

    3 people

  • Support project presentations

    2 people

  • Handle the Q&A session and closing

    2 people

Aftercare

  • Power down laptops and equipment

    2 people

  • Store leftovers safely

    2 people

  • Wash dishes

    2 people

  • Clean up the space

    3 people

  • Put tables and chairs back

    3 people

  • Clean the room

    2 people

  • Return borrowed equipment

  • Send a thank-you gift to participants

What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

  • Work tablesqty 6
  • Chairsqty 24
  • Registration desk
  • Teacher's table

Equipment

  • Laptopsqty 20
  • Laptop chargersqty 20
  • Projector
  • Projection screen
  • HDMI cablesqty 3
  • Extension cordsqty 6
  • Power stripsqty 8
  • Wi-Fi router
  • USB sticksqty 24
  • Computer miceqty 20

Education

  • Worksheetsqty 24
  • Notepadsqty 24
  • Ballpoint pensqty 30
  • Pencilsqty 24
  • Erasersqty 24
  • Flip chart
  • Flipchart markersqty 6
  • Name stickersqty 30

Tableware

  • Reusable cupsqty 30
  • Platesqty 30
  • Cutlery setsqty 30
  • Serving spoonsqty 4
  • Coffee potsqty 2
  • Water jugsqty 3

Catering

  • Groceries

Cleaning

  • Waste binsqty 4
  • Cleaning spongesqty 6
  • Cleaning clothsqty 10
  • Floor squeegee
  • Broom
  • Dustpan and brushqty 2
  • Hand soapqty 3

Lighting

  • Desk lampsqty 6

Tips

  • Set the workshop level before writing exercises or sending invitations. A beginner session needs different examples, software instructions, and support than an advanced session.
  • Test the complete technical setup at least one day beforehand: laptops, chargers, software, projector, HDMI cables, power strips, and Wi-Fi. Do not rely on equipment working just because it powered on previously.
  • Plan the room around the teaching flow. Leave space for a registration desk, keep the teacher’s table near the projector, and place laptops so every participant can see the screen and reach a power outlet.
  • Send participant information no later than 3 days before the workshop. Include the start time, room details, what participants should bring, the programme, and any software or account requirements.
  • Finish food and drink planning after registrations close, ideally 2–3 days before the workshop. Check dietary requirements, chill groceries in advance, and place water, coffee, cups, and waste bins where they can be reached without interrupting the lesson.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I plan a programming workshop?
Set the date, programme, room, and instructors at least 4–6 weeks ahead. This leaves time to determine the workshop level, prepare and test exercises, process registrations, and arrange equipment.
How many laptops do I need for a programming workshop?
Plan one working laptop per participant, plus at least 1 spare laptop for a workshop of up to 20 people. Provide a charger for every laptop and test the required software and network connection before the event.
When should I send programming workshop participant information?
Send it at least 3 days before the workshop, once registrations and dietary requirements are checked. Include the schedule, arrival instructions, software details, and any safety rules participants need to know.
How early should I arrive to set up a programming workshop?
Arrive at least 90 minutes before participants. Use that time to arrange tables and chairs, set out laptops and chargers, connect and test the projector, check Wi-Fi, prepare registration, and put out handouts.

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