SCA Barista Skills Foundation Course
Course Description
Course Overview
Barista Skills Foundation Course–SCA focuses on the key skills required to set a grinder, make espresso and foam, and texture milk for cappuccinos. This course allows one to gain an introductory understanding of the coffee itself and set a foundation from which to build practical skills for milk technique and latte art, while implementing health and safety practices and customer service.

What You’ll Learn – Course Modules
1. Understanding the Coffee Bean
Explore how origin, variety, and roast level affect flavor. Learn to recognize and describe the sensory notes in different coffees using the SCA Flavor Wheel.
2. Espresso Fundamentals
Master the espresso process—calibrating grinders, adjusting dose, yield, and time. Discover how to work with an espresso recipe and troubleshoot common errors.
3. Grinder Calibration and Dose Management
Learn to dial in your grinder for consistent shots. Get hands-on with tamping, distribution, and how grind size influences flavor.
4. Milk Texturing and Steaming
Discover the techniques behind creamy, silky milk foam. Practice creating microfoam and achieve perfect texture for lattes, cappuccinos, and flat whites.
5. Drink Building and Latte Art Basics
Learn how to construct the most popular coffee drinks! From Espresso to Cappuccino —and get introduced to the fundamentals of latte art.
6. Espresso Sensory Analysis
Taste and describe espresso using professional sensory methods. Understand acidity, sweetness, and bitterness through guided tasting.
7. Water Quality
Explore how water composition affects espresso extraction and equipment maintenance. Understand the basics of filtration and TDS.
8. Machine Operation and Maintenance
Operate commercial-grade espresso machines and grinders. Learn routine cleaning procedures to maintain hygiene and ensure consistent performance.
9. Health, Safety, and Hygiene
Understand essential barista hygiene, workplace safety, and café-level sanitation practices.
10. Customer Service and Workflow
Learn how to manage a clean, efficient barista station while maintaining customer satisfaction during peak hours.
Practical Skills You Will Develop
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Identify and describe various coffee aromas and flavors.
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Work within a professional espresso recipe with precision.
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Calibrate grinders to meet SCA brew parameters.
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Apply correct distribution and tamping techniques.
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Steam milk to achieve silky microfoam and proper temperature.
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Assemble drinks according to customer preferences and SCA guidelines.
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Maintain espresso machines and grinders with daily cleaning practices.
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Use professional vocabulary to communicate espresso quality.
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Handle service with professionalism and speed during busy hours.
Course Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| SCA Points Earned | 10 Points towards SCA Coffee Diploma |
| Level | Beginner |
| Duration | 1 Day (7 Hours of immersive training) |
| Prerequisites | SCA Introduction to Coffee (Optional) |
| Certification | SCA Barista Skills Foundation Certificate |
| Training Format | Theory + Practical Hands-On |
| Delivery Mode | In-Person and Distance Learning (Hybrid Options Available) |
| Intake Dates | Check our TRAINING CALENDAR for upcoming intake dates and BOOK NOW |
| Location | Electra St., COOP Building, Level 7, Wing 701, Office 10, next to ADCB Bank headquarters, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates |
Training Calendar
Why This Course Stands Out
Our teaching style is different. We focus on simplicity, precision, and speed, drawing from years of coaching champion baristas. Instead of overwhelming you with jargon or endless theory, we give you clear, actionable techniques that instantly improve your results behind the machine. You’ll leave this course with tangible, practical barista skills that are recognised and respected worldwide.
This course is the perfect first step if you’re serious about coffee as a career or a craft. And with the SCA certificate in your portfolio, you open the doors to higher levels of training, such as the SCA Barista Skills Intermediate and eventually, the Professional Level.
What Happens After You Complete This Course?
Once you’ve earned your SCA Barista Skills Foundation certificate, you’ll be eligible to level up with:
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SCA Barista Skills Intermediate – More in-depth techniques, workflow mastery, and quality control.
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SCA Barista Skills Professional – Advanced-level skills for trainers, head baristas, and quality control professionals.
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Or diversify your learning with
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SCA Sensory Skills, or Cupping Skills
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Green Coffee modules.
All courses contribute points toward the SCA Coffee Skills Diploma, recognized by cafés, roasters, and coffee organizations across the globe.
What to Bring:
- Comfortable shoes for standing during training.
Age Requirement:
- 15 years and above.
Why Choose Us as Your Training Partner?
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Experienced Trainers: Learn from barista coaches with real-world café and competition experience.
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Accelerated Learning: Designed to deliver maximum learning in just one day.
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Hands-On Experience: Practice on commercial espresso machines from the first hour.
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Global Certification: Recognized by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).
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Flexible Delivery: In-person or remote learning options available.
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Post-Course Guidance: We’ll help you plan your next steps after certification.
Booking & Payment Options
- Ensure your spot by booking in advance for your desired course(s).
- Payment options are available through Tabby, online payment, and bank transfer. Bank details will be provided upon booking.
Additional Information
Addon

Gift Card: AED 105 + AED 52 (Delivery Charge) = AED 262
BUY NOW
- Have questions about the class?
Interested in a corporate activity?
Feel free to contact us at info@coffeepodium.com or call us at +971 22460922/+971526796316
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do I need to bring my own equipment to Coffee Podium?
No. At Coffee Podium, we provide all the professional equipment, tools, and materials you’ll need throughout the course.
2. Is there a minimum age requirement to join the course?
Yes, participants must be at least 15 years old to attend our SCA Barista Skills Foundation training at Coffee Podium.
3. Will I learn how to make latte art by the end of this course?
Yes! We guide you through the foundations of milk steaming and teach you how to pour basic latte art with proper techniques.
4. What if I don’t pass the exam on my first attempt?
Don’t worry. At Coffee Podium, we offer support, revision opportunities, and exam retakes to help you succeed.
5. Is the certificate from Coffee Podium recognized globally?
Absolutely. Coffee Podium is an Authorized SCA Training Provider, so your certificate will be internationally recognized.
6. Can home baristas or hobbyists take this course?
Yes! While many of our learners are pursuing careers in coffee, our training is also open to home brewers and enthusiasts.
7. How long will it take to receive my SCA certificate from Coffee Podium?
Certificates are usually issued within 7–14 working days after successful completion and passing of the written exam.
8. Does Coffee Podium offer job placement support after training?
While we don’t guarantee employment, we offer job guidance, career advice, and access to a growing coffee industry network.
9. Is the course available online or only in person?
We offer a flexible learning approach. While the practical sessions must be attended in person, the theory can be done online if needed.
10. How is Coffee Podium’s training different from other coffee workshops?
Our programs are structured under the Specialty Coffee Association’s global standards. At Coffee Podium, we blend professional expertise with real café insights, delivering hands-on training that is both comprehensive and practical.

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