Overview
SCA Barista Skills Foundation is the perfect starting point for anyone looking to build a strong foundation in espresso preparation and barista techniques. This course introduces key concepts such as espresso extraction, milk texturing, grinder calibration, workflow efficiency, and basic sensory skills. Through hands-on practice and guided instruction, you’ll learn how to dial in espresso, steam milk for lattes and cappuccinos, and maintain cleanliness and efficiency at the bar. Whether you’re an aspiring barista, a coffee enthusiast, or a café owner wanting to train staff, this course equips you with the fundamental skills needed for success.
Highlights
Get Globally Recognized Certification
Get your skills certified by the most globally-known coffee skills certification from the Specialty Coffee Association.
Make New Coffee Friends
Meet other amazing coffee professionals and enthusiasts.
Learn in Small Classes with World-Class Educators
Get personalized feedback from some of the best in the industry.
Schedule
Previous
Next
Morning Session: Coffee Basics, Espresso Fundamentals & Extraction
Topics:
- Arabica vs. Robusta – Understanding the key differences in flavor, caffeine content, and growing conditions.
- The Importance of Freshness – How coffee ages and why freshness impacts flavor.
- Grinder Components & Calibration – Identifying parts of the grinder and adjusting grind size for espresso.
- Espresso Machine Components & Functions – Understanding key parts of the espresso machine and their role in extraction.
- Safe Use of Equipment – Best practices for using grinders and espresso machines safely.
- Creating a Clean & Organized Workspace – Maintaining an efficient barista station for speed and hygiene.
- Espresso Basics – Defining what makes an espresso and key extraction principles.
- Dosing, Distribution & Tamping – Techniques for preparing an even coffee bed to ensure balanced extraction.
- Understanding Extraction & Brewing Variables – Recognizing signs of under- and over-extraction.
Afternoon
Topics:
- Milk Foaming Techniques – Learning to steam milk for the right texture and temperature.
- Drink Preparation & Workflow – Making common espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and Americanos.
- Cleaning & Maintenance – Daily cleaning routines to keep equipment in top condition.
- Customer Service & Café Workflow – Basics of engaging with customers and working efficiently behind the bar.
Gallery
What's included
What's Included
Facilitator Fee
Facility Fee
All Required Equipment, Supplies, and Coffee
All SCA Fees
SCA Certificate (Pending Successful Exam Completion)
Lunch & Snacks
Free-Flowing Brewed Coffee Throughout The Course
Digital & Printed Resource Pack
Lifetime Access to Student Discord Group
What's Not Included
Travel to The Course
Any Required Accommodations While in Calgary
Hosts
Trent Rollings
Accredited SCA Trainer, World Coffee Championships Representative & Judge
Reviews
I took the SCA Foundation and Intermediate Barista Training with Trent, which only fueled my passion for good coffee even more. The lessons were interactive and easy to understand, with detailed and high-quality materials that prepared me well for the exams. My coffee-making skills have greatly improved as a result. Trent is extremely welcoming and has a way of making you feel like old friends. I look forward to returning for more training.
Corrine J.
Dates
April 2025
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FAQs
Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for:
- Beginners with little to no barista experience
- Coffee enthusiasts wanting to learn espresso basics
- New café staff who need structured barista training
Am I guaranteed certification for this course?
No, receiving certification from this course is dependent on passing an online written exam which covers the content covered in the course. Don't worry, we work really hard to prepare you for the exam and our students have a high passing rate.
How long is the course?
The course is 8 hours including breaks. During this time, you'll receive both theory and practical hands-on training.
Does this course have an exam?
Yes, the course includes a short online written exam to assess your understanding of espresso preparation and milk steaming techniques.
What certification do I receive upon completing the course?
If you have registered for the option of receiving a certificate, upon passing the exam, you’ll earn an SCA Barista Skills Foundation certificate, known and recognized worldwide.
Is there a payment plan available for this course?
Yes, all of our courses have payment plans when booking more than one month in advance. The final payment for the course is due one month before the course.
Do I need experience to take this course?
No prior experience is required—this course is designed for beginners.
Do I need to bring anything to the course?
Everything you need will be provided, including meals and snacks, but you may want to bring a notebook for personal notes.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
We will send you a pre-course email before your course where we ask for any dietary restrictions you may have so that we can work to accommodate for them when ordering snacks and lunch.
What is the difference between courses and camps?
Courses are structured training classes focused on developing specific coffee skills, such as barista techniques, brewing, and sensory analysis. They typically don't include accommodations or additional opportunities beyond the course itself.
Camps are all-inclusive, immersive experiences that include but go beyond structured courses. They combine hands-on coffee education with community-building, outdoor activities, and unique experiences, creating a deeper connection to coffee and the people behind it.