IITHE Level 4 DIPLOMA IN PROFESSIONAL BARISTA SKILLS

Overview

The IITHE Level 4 Diploma in Professional Barista Skills is designed for individuals passionate about the art and science of coffee. Whether you’re beginning your journey or looking to upgrade your expertise, this program offers comprehensive training—from bean to cup—to prepare you for a dynamic career in the specialty coffee industry. With internationally recognized certification, you’ll gain the confidence and skills to excel in café operations or launch your own coffee business.

Entry Requirements:
  • Minimum age: 18 years
  • Basic proficiency in English (reading, writing, and speaking)
  • A keen interest in coffee and customer service
  • No prior experience required (open to beginners and professionals alike)
Mandatory Units:
  1. Introduction to Coffee
    • Coffee origins, processing methods, and bean varieties
  2. Espresso Preparation
    • Espresso extraction, grinding, tamping, and machine calibration
  3. Milk Texturing and Latte Art
    • Milk steaming techniques and fundamental latte art designs
  4. Coffee Brewing Techniques
    • Mastery of manual brew methods: Pour-over, French press, AeroPress, etc.
  5. Sensory Skills and Coffee Tasting
    • Flavor profiling, cupping protocols, and palate development
  6. Customer Service and Barista Workflow
    • Efficient café service, order handling, and time management
  7. Health, Safety, and Hygiene in the Workplace
    • Food safety practices, equipment maintenance, and sanitation standards
  8. Coffee Shop Operations and Management
    • Daily operations, staff coordination, inventory control
  9. Advanced Barista Skills and Menu Development
    • Creating signature drinks and developing specialty coffee menus
  10. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
    • Sustainable practices in coffee production and ethical bean sourcing
  11. Barista Business Skills and Coffee Shop Operations
    • Basics of entrepreneurship, budgeting, and business planning
  12. Practical Assessment and Final Exam
    • Hands-on skill demonstration and written evaluation
Duration and Delivery:
  • Duration: 2 to 3 months
  • Mode: In-class training with real café equipment
  • Sessions: Weekly practical and theory sessions
Assessment and Verification:
  • Ongoing practical assessments and skill-based evaluations
  • Final theoretical examination and hands-on performance test
  • Verified and awarded by IITHE (UK Accredited Qualification)
Progression Opportunities:
  • Employment in local and international coffee shops, restaurants, and hotels
  • Advancement to Level 5 Hospitality or Café Management courses
  • Start your own coffee business or mobile coffee cart
  • Opportunities to work as a Coffee Trainer or Quality Control Officer
  • Pathway to international coffee certifications