Barista Skills Short Course
Food & Beverage
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A two-day practical course covering comprehensive barista skills, coffee history, and espresso beverage production at Otago Polytechnic Cromwell Campus.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Cromwell, Cromwell
Core skills this course teaches
Understand coffee heritage and production
Demonstrate comprehensive knowledge of the history, evolution, and production process of coffee.
Prepare and present espresso beverages
Gain practical skills to prepare and present a variety of espresso-based drinks for café service.
Achieve NZQA Barista Unit Standards
Complete and be assessed against Unit Standards 17284 and 17288, leading to industry-recognised certification.
What You're Signing Up For
This intensive two-day Barista Skills Short Course offers participants the opportunity to gain foundational and practical skills in coffee making. The programme covers the history and evolution of coffee, as well as the production and presentation of coffee beverages as required in café settings. Successful completion of Unit Standards 17284 and 17288 leads to an Otago Polytechnic Certificate of Achievement.
Course Content
- History and evolution of coffee
- Coffee heritage and production (NZQA Unit 17284)
- Preparation and presentation of espresso beverages for service (NZQA Unit 17288)
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Hospitality
Food and Beverage
Future employment opportunities might be
Entry-level barista roles in cafés or hospitality venues
Café assistant
Enhanced employability in customer service roles requiring coffee skills
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.