Course Overview: Barista Skills
Course Aims / Learning Outcomes This course aims to equip students with foundational barista skills and knowledge of commercial espresso coffee equipment. Students will develop practical expertise in coffee preparation, machine operation, and beverage presentation. The course provides hands-on learning opportunities to prepare students for employment in the hospitality industry or further coffee training.
Course Content Students will engage in practical learning experiences, including:
- Coffee Equipment Knowledge:
- Understanding the operation and maintenance of commercial espresso machines.
- Espresso Beverage Preparation:
- Learning coffee extraction techniques.
- Preparing and presenting a variety of espresso-based beverages.
Learning activities will include hands-on barista training, demonstrations, supervised coffee-making sessions, and potential visits to cafés or industry settings to observe professional baristas in action.
Assessment Statement This course offers a total of 9 Unit Standard (US) credits across Levels 2 and 3:
- Level 2
- US 17285: Demonstrate knowledge of commercial espresso coffee equipment and prepare espresso beverages under supervision (4 credits)
- Level 3
- US 17288: Prepare and present espresso beverages for service (5 credits)
Assessments will be conducted through practical demonstrations, supervised beverage preparation tasks, and written reflections. Students will have flexibility in scheduling assessments based on their progress and learning goals.
Authenticity All assignments will be completed using an online system such as Google Docs, allowing Learning Advisors to monitor document history. A portion of assessments will be conducted in class under supervision. Students may be required to:
- Complete class tests under controlled conditions.
- Sign an authenticity statement.
- Demonstrate their work through interviews, supporting notes, or supervised practical tasks to verify originality.
This course provides valuable industry-relevant barista skills, preparing students for employment opportunities or further studies in hospitality and coffee service.
Table of Assessments
| Number | Name | Credit value | Internal or External | Literacy Numeracy UE Reading/Writing | When | Reassessment opportunity | Type of assessment |
US17285: | Demonstrate knowledge of commercial espresso coffee equipment and prepare espresso beverages under supervision | 4 | Internal | Reading | Term 1 | Yes | Practical |
| US 17288 | Prepare and present espresso beverages for service | 5 | Internal | Reading | Term 1 | Yes | Practical |