Barista course run by Longford Westmeath ETB offers the perfect career boost

Whether you want to start a career in the hospitality industry, start your own business or just improve your coffee making skills, then the Barista Skills Level 2 course run by Longford Westmeath ETB is a must. 

Participants on the five-day course can find work as a Barista in coffee shops, bars, restaurants, hotels and leisure facilities.
Graduates from  the course will also be equipped to start their own coffee business.

Course content includes: Machine calibration and operation, Grinder setup, Espresso Routine, Brewing techniques, Espresso shots, Understanding recipe/timing, Tamping technique, History of coffee, Customer Service, Importance of and how to clean machine.

The course focuses on preparing a variety of espresso based hot drinks; smoothies and teas.

This part-time short, FREE course, enables you to gain an internationally recognised award from City & Guilds, for those seeking work in the hospitality sector.

For anyone thinking of travelling - this certified training can help in securing work at home and abroad in coffee shops; restaurants, hotels bars, cruise ships and leisure facilities.

Trained Baristas are very much in demand, so the course offers an ideal opportunity to get ahead with a City & Guilds International Award, which is recognised around the world. 

To find out more about the Barista course, our reporter David Power paid a visit to learn first-hand what the course has to offer. 

The aroma of coffee guided me upstairs to the Barista School in the Longford Westmeath ETB building on the Battery Road in Longford, and thankfully there wasn’t a hipster in sight. 

However, there were some very impressive looking coffee machines and the best quality ingredients on offer for the course participants to perfect their various types of coffees, hot drinks and smoothies. 

And the other vital ingredients in the mix were tutor Deirdre Foxe and the five enthusiastic participants on the latest course, Sharon, Ellen, Rebecca, Rosie and Chisley. 

Ellen shows off her delicious hot chocolate creation

The group included locals from around Longford county and further afield from Westmeath, Offaly and Kildare.

Tutor Deirdre explained that they can take up to eight people on each course, but six is the ideal number to provide expert guidance and allow ample time to practise on the two state-of-the-art coffee machines.

Many former participants of the Barista course have gone on to work in the catering industry and a number have set up their own portable barista businesses, in the growing market of portable coffee services from converted horse boxes and vans. . 

One course participant, Rosie, said she really enjoyed taking on the challenge. “I genuinely was very nervous coming in, especially being an older person in my 60s, but Deirdre made it such fun and we were all made to feel so welcome,” she said. 

“It’s a fantastic course,” enthused fellow participant, Rebecca. “Everyone is so nice and you have a great time. The course is really enjoyable and you have a laugh, while learning,” she said. 

Sharon added: “Each course day goes by so quickly and you are learning all the time, as well”. 

Deirdre explained that while they study the theory side of Barista the course is very much “hands on”. 

“You learn by doing,” she said. “You learn the trade by practice”. 

And Deirdre lets the course participants get on with their practical work, occasionally intervening to offer some guidance or to impart knowledge. 

Chisley, Sharon and Ellen pictured at the Barista class

By the end of the course, the graduates will have a much deeper knowledge of coffee and teas. 

The correct foam depth for cappuccinos and lattes are second nature to those on the course from early on, and there isn’t a bubble in sight in their hot milk!

Having spent one day attending the course, I learned a great deal of information, was able to pour a double shot of espresso and now know the technical difference between cappuccinos and lattes and whether to order a Cortado or a Macchiato. 

A visit to a cafe will probably never be the same for me, as I think I will be on the lookout to see if they have best practice in place, like the high standards espoused on the course in Longford and the quality of the froth will be scrutinised.

There was even some invaluable advice on making smoothies. Put the ice and frozen fruit in last, as they are harder on the valuable blades. 

Even learning that a little bit of boiling water mixed with hot chocolate powder is a tip I will carry forward. And also the importance of the best ingredients!

Many people working in the industry probably took their first steps towards a Barista career in Longford. You mightn’t realise it, but you are probably indebted to the course for the quality brew you enjoy!

All different groups can take part in ETB courses, with past participants including those with special needs and people with literacy issues.

You can learn everything from cookery skills to photography and even basic skills like reading and writing, and everyday maths.

If you would like to try a course and improve your skills in a small-class environment while meeting new people in your community, or for any enquiries relating to Further Education and Training, please call 044 9342111 or email fet@lwetb.ie

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