SCA Barista Skills (Intermediate)

The SCA Barista Skills Intermediate Course is designed to test key core and more advanced skills and understanding, expected from a competent barista.

In detail, the course covers:

• Different coffee species/varieties, geographic origins, various processing methods, and their influences on the flavour of the coffee.

• Degassing period of coffee and its effect on coffee flavour

• Improved speed and a smooth and efficient workflow.

• Advantages and disadvantages of various grinders as well as the effect of climatic conditions and the heat generated by the grinder on the grinder/grind size.

• Grinding, dosing, and distributing consistently as well as the causes of channeling

• How taste can help distinguish the differences between different recipes and how to manipulate barista-controlled variables in order to produce a balanced espresso.

• Terminology of the SCA flavour wheel.

• Composition of dairy milk and the role each component plays in foaming ability, quality, and stability of foam

• Problems caused by the deterioration of the milk because of various reasons.

• Learning how to 'free pour' two different latte art patterns.

• Demonstration of preparation of a range of commonly ordered drinks.

• Organization and operational policies and procedures - keeping everything in the espresso workspace safe and hygienic.

• Risks of workplace injury through managing repetitive motion, identifying sources for workplace injury, preventing spills, leaks, or other walking hazards

• Complaint handling, personal presentation, and good communication skills - overall customer service.

• Cleaning, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

• Difference between single and multiple-boiler espresso machines as well as the importance of various parts of an espresso machine

• Costs involved in preparing and serving espresso beverages

Other info:

• This course stretches over two days (9 am – 4 pm)

• Participants have to pass 4 different practical assessments, done at the end of the training

• Participants also have to complete and pass the online written exam within 21 days to pass the entire course.

• The Intermediate Course contributes 10 points towards your SCA score.

• The course fee is R5 950 - for SA citizens (including accreditation costs).

• There will be no refunds if participants do not show up for training.