BAR
6527
Academy Course
SCA Barista Skills — Intermediate
Calibration, water, and the one-millimetre adjustments that separate a working barista from a head barista.
Format
In person · Online
Duration
2 Days
Level
Intermediate
Next Cohort
8–9 September 2026
What You'll Learn
Eight core competencies to master in this course.
1
Master water: hardness, minerals, TDS — how water changes every shot.
2
Understand pressure profiling: pre-infusion, ramp, decline, and why each matters.
3
Calibrate for precision: dialling in under different conditions, seasonal changes.
4
Evaluate espresso like a Q-grader: tasting form, scoring, written feedback.
5
Train as a mentor: how to teach other baristas without frustration.
6
Troubleshoot like a head barista: machine issues, consistency problems, quick fixes.
7
Achieve the SCA Intermediate certification — a credential few hold.
8
Step into management or coaching roles with credibility.
Who It's For
- Baristas who hold the SCA Foundation credential.
- Head baristas or shift leads wanting to formalize their skills.
- Anyone on a path to café management or training roles.
- Speciality café professionals who want to deepen their understanding of the craft.
Prerequisites
- SCA Barista Foundation certificate (or equivalent hands-on experience).
- At least 6 months of working barista experience recommended.
- Comfort with technical discussion and chemistry basics.
The Instructor
Maryam Tabatabaei
Authorized SCA Premier Trainer · Q-Arabica GraderTaught by Maryam.
Maryam is an Authorized SCA Premier Trainer and a Q-Arabica Grader certified under the SCA Q Coffee System (formerly the Coffee Quality Institute) — one of the few practitioners in the United Arab Emirates who holds both credentials at once.
She placed fourth at the HB Best Batch Roasting Championship (Feb 2026), judged the UAE National Roasting Championship (Jan 2026), and presented at Gulfood 2026’s Specialty Coffee Stage. Cohorts in her studio are kept to six learners — closer to a master class than a campus.
“I will not teach you what to think about coffee. I will teach you how to taste it for yourself.”
SCA Authorized TrainerQ-Arabica Grader · SCAUAE Roasting Championship Judge4th · HB Best Batch RoastingGulfood 2026 · Specialty Stage
Frequently Asked
Do I need the Foundation certificate to attend?
The course assumes Foundation-level knowledge. If you have hands-on experience and feel ready, speak with Maryam about an exception.
Will there be an exam?
Yes — similar format to Foundation, but deeper. You'll be evaluated on water knowledge, pressure profiling, and sensory evaluation.
Can I mentor others after this course?
Absolutely. Many baristas use Intermediate to transition into training or head barista roles. Maryam can advise on next steps.
Next Step