Sonwaro’s Authorized SCA Trainer preparing a coffee tasting

Barista training

SCA-accredited courses – master the art of coffee.

Authorized SCA Trainer 2024–2027

Learn from a 25-year coffee expert

Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) courses in barista skills, brewing and roasting – hands-on, in small groups, with internationally recognised certificates.

4–6 people per group

9am – 3pm daily

Exam & certificate fees included

Earns SCA Diploma points

SCA Coffee Diploma accredited barista courses by an Authorized SCA Trainer

Choose your course

Tap a course to see its levels, duration and requirements.

Espresso, milk and service – from your first shot to a café-ready workflow.

  • Foundation 2 days · no experience needed · 5 pts
    Dial in a grinder, pull a great shot, steam milk, latte-art basics, hygiene and service.
  • Intermediate 3 days · Foundation recommended · 10 pts
    How origin and processing shape flavour, workflow, drink building and espresso sensory.

Assessment: online exam (60% / 70% pass) plus practical assessment.

Manual and batch brewing, extraction and water – the science behind a great cup.

  • Foundation 2 days · no experience needed · 5 pts
    Gravity and automatic brewers, extraction basics, brew ratios and tasting your results.
  • Intermediate 3 days · Foundation recommended · 10 pts
    Brew variables, strength measurement, equipment care and sensory analysis.
  • Professional 4 days · Intermediate required · 25 pts
    Brewing control charts, water quality and precision extraction. 6–12 months’ industry experience encouraged.

Assessment: online exam (60% / 70% / 80% pass) plus practical assessments.

From green bean to a perfect, repeatable roast profile.

  • Foundation 2 days · no experience needed · 5 pts
    Physical changes in the bean, light to dark roasts, sensory basics, roaster care and fire safety.
  • Intermediate 3 days · Foundation recommended · 10 pts
    Roast profiling, temperature and airflow control, and defect identification.
  • Professional 4 days · Intermediate required · 25 pts
    Roasting chemistry, energy transfer, and replicating and refining profiles. 6–12 months’ roasting experience encouraged.

Assessment: online exam (60% / 70% / 80% pass) plus practical assessments.

Every course runs 9am – 3pm and includes exam and certificate fees, lunch and snacks, and all equipment and ingredients.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need experience to join?

No. Foundation courses are open to beginners – basic coffee knowledge helps but isn’t required. Professional levels require the Intermediate course first.

What is the SCA Coffee Skills Diploma?

An internationally recognised diploma from the Specialty Coffee Association. Each course earns points (Foundation 5, Intermediate 10, Professional 25) towards the 100 points needed, including the Introduction to Coffee module.

What does the course fee cover?

Exam and certificate fee, lunch and snacks each day, all equipment and ingredients. There are no hidden costs.

How do I book?

Call us on 087 265 9664 or email info@sonwaro.co.za with the course you’re interested in, and we’ll send dates and pricing.

Be ready to create, inspire and stand out

Small groups fill up quickly – reserve your place on the next course.