Specialty Coffee Association courses in London
Internationally recognised coffee education, with expert support from experienced Q Graders
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Coffee Skills Program is a globally recognised set of certificates for coffee professionals. It combines theory with hands-on practical training and assessment, and successful learners receive an SCA certificate. At The Coffee Training Club, we help baristas, coffee businesses and roasteries prepare for SCA courses and build the practical skills they need to succeed.
How the SCA Coffee Skills Program works
The program starts with Introduction to Coffee, a standalone one-day course. It then offers five specialist modules: Barista Skills, Brewing, Green Coffee, Roasting and Sensory Skills. Each module has three levels, so learners can progress step by step as their skills and experience grow. Not sure where to start? Get in touch and we will help you choose the right module and level.
Foundation
For people new to the subject. Learners build the core knowledge and practical skills of the module. No previous experience is needed.
Intermediate
For learners with some experience who want to deepen their understanding and work more consistently in a professional setting.
Professional
For experienced coffee professionals who want advanced technical knowledge and the confidence to lead, train and make decisions.
The modules
Introduction to Coffee is a standalone one-day course. The five specialist modules each offer Foundation, Intermediate and Professional levels.
Introduction to Coffee
A one-day introduction to where coffee comes from, how it is processed and what makes it taste the way it does. An ideal first step.
Barista Skills and Brewing
Barista Skills covers espresso, milk texturing, workflow and customer service. Brewing covers filter and immersion methods, extraction and brew strength.
Green Coffee and Roasting
Green Coffee covers production, processing, grading and buying. Roasting covers roast profiles, the roasting process and quality control.
Sensory Skills
Learn to taste with confidence: identifying flavours, aromas and defects, and describing coffee clearly and consistently.
How we can help
Antonio is a Q Grader with SCA certifications in Sensory Skills, Barista Skills and Roasting. Julian is a Q Grader Instructor. Both have many years of experience running coffee shops, and we use that experience to help you get the most from the SCA program.
SCA course preparation
One-to-one or small-group sessions to build your skills and confidence before an SCA course or exam.
Practice sessions
Hands-on time on professional equipment at our working coffee roastery in London.
Team and company programmes
We plan SCA learning pathways for cafés, roasteries and larger companies, delivered at our roastery or on site at your business.
Career guidance
Advice on which modules and levels best match your goals, whether you are starting out or moving into a senior role.
Frequently asked questions
Answers to the questions we are asked most often about SCA courses and our support.
Do I need any experience?
No. Introduction to Coffee and the Foundation level of each module are designed for people with little or no experience.
Which module should I start with?
It depends on your role and goals. Baristas often start with Barista Skills, while roasters and buyers may begin with Sensory Skills or Green Coffee. We are happy to advise.
Can you train a whole team?
Yes. We plan programmes for cafés, roasteries and companies, and can deliver training at our London roastery or at your business.
Where does the training take place?
Training takes place at our working coffee roastery in London, or on site at your business if you prefer.
Enquire about SCA courses
Tell us which module and level you are interested in, how many learners you have and your preferred dates, and we will get back to you with details and availability.