International Award in Barista

Skills (7102-52)
Qualification handbook
www.cityandguilds.com
March 2008
Version 1.0
About City & Guilds
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500 awards across a wide range of industries, and progressing from entry level to
the highest levels of professional achievement. With over 8500 centres in 100
countries, City & Guilds is recognised by employers worldwide for providing
qualifications that offer proof of the skills they need to get the job done.

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available on the City & Guilds website.

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International Award in Barista
Skills (7102-52)
Qualification handbook
www.cityandguilds.com
March 2008
Version 1.0

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 1

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2 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Contents

1 About this document 5

2 About the qualification 6
2.1 Aim of the qualification 6
2.2 The structure of the qualification 7
2.3 Publications, sources of information and assistance 8
3 Candidate entry and progression 10
4 Centre requirements 11
4.1 Obtaining centre and qualification approval 11
4.2 Resource requirements 12
4.3 Registration and certification 14
4.4 Quality assurance 15
5 Course design and delivery 17
6 Relationships to other qualifications Error! Bookmark not defined.
7 Assessment 20
7.1 Summary of assessment requirements 20
Unit 002 Barista Skills 22
Appendix 1 Support materials 30
Appendix 2 Glossary of terms used in the unit 31
Appendix 3 The wider curriculum Error! Bookmark not defined.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 3

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4 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

1 About this document

This document contains the information that centres need to offer the following international
award:

International Award in Barista Skills

City & Guilds qualification number 7102-52

This document includes details and guidance on

• centre resource requirements
• candidate entry requirements
• information about links with, and progression to, other qualifications
• qualification standards and specifications
• assessment requirements.

This document should be used in conjunction with the Centre guide - Delivering international
qualifications (WP-UK-0015), which contains additional information and documentation required for
this IVQ.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 5

 2 About the qualification
1.0 Aim of the qualification

This vocationally related qualification has been designed by City & Guilds in order to
• meet the needs of candidates who work or want to work as baristas in the hospitality sector
• allow candidates to learn, develop and practice the skills required for employment and/or career
progression in the hospitality sector.

This qualification is
• developed from the City & Guilds Level 2 Award in Barista Skills (7102-02) which is accredited as
part of the National Qualifications Framework of England, Wales and Northern Ireland (NQF) at
Level 2.

6 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

0 About the qualification
2.0 The structure of the qualification

The following certificate will be awarded to successful candidates on successful completion of this
qualification.

City & Guilds Unit title Excluded

unit number combination of
units (if any)
002 Barista skills n/a

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 7

 2 About the qualification
3.0 Publications, sources of information and assistance

Related publications
City & Guilds provides the following documents specifically for this qualification:

Publication Available from

Qualification handbook www.cityandguilds.com
Assessment pack www.cityandguilds.com
Answer pack www.cityandguilds.com
Information sheet www.cityandguilds.com

Other essential documents

There are other City & Guilds documents which contain general information on City & Guilds
qualifications:

• Centre guide – Delivering international qualifications (WP-UK-0015)

This guide contains detailed information about the processes which must be followed and
requirements which must be met for a centre to achieve ‘approved centre’ status, or to offer a
particular qualification.

• International catalogue (CD-00-1112)

The international catalogue provides approved centres with details of general regulations,
dated examinations, registration and certification procedures, and fees. This information is also
available online.

• International Handbook
Information on City & Guilds’ international portfolio of qualifications designed to help centres
identify the right qualifications and levels for their learners. This brochure is also available to
download from our website.

• International Guide to Qualifications

Information on City & Guilds’ international portfolio of qualifications designed to help learners
choose the right programme. This brochure is also available to download from our website.

• Preparing projects and portfolios for international qualifications (FR-00-0008)

This guide contains useful general information for centre staff and for candidates.

• Guide to the assessment of practical skills in international vocational qualifications

(GP-00-0004)
This guide offers advice for centre staff on planning and conducting practical assessments for
IVQs.

For the latest updates on our publications and details of how to obtain them and other City & Guilds
resources, please refer to the City & Guilds website.

8 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

City & Guilds websites

Website Address Purpose and content

City & Guilds’ www.cityandguilds.com This is the main website for finding out about
international the City & Guilds group, accessing qualification
website information and publications.

SmartScreen www.smartscreen.co.uk SmartScreen is the City & Guilds online learning

support website. It gives registered
subscribers access to qualification-specific
support materials.

Walled Garden www.walled-garden.com The Walled Garden is a qualification

administration portal for approved centres,
enabling them to register candidates and claim
certification online.

Contacting City & Guilds by e-mail

The following e-mail addresses give direct access to our Customer Relations team.

e-mail Query types

intcg@cityandguilds.com International Customer Relations team:

• all candidate enquiries
• centre enquiries relating to centre
approval
• ordering publications.
intops@cityandguilds.com centre enquiries relating to:
• entries
• results
• invoices
• examination materials.
walledgarden@cityandguilds.com all enquiries relating to the Walled Garden,
including:
• setting up an account
• resetting passwords
• technical queries and problems.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 9

 3 Candidate entry and progression

Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for candidates undertaking this qualification. However,
centres must ensure that candidates have the potential and opportunity to be successful in gaining
their qualification.
In particular, it is recommended that candidates have access to an espresso machine and grinder,
or other equipment as necessary, in order to practice drinks production skills in their own time.

Age restrictions and legal considerations

There are no age limits attached to candidates undertaking the qualification unless this is a legal
requirement of the process or the environment.

Progression
This qualification provides a number of opportunities for progression both within the City & Guilds
framework of qualifications and those available in the country in which it is offered.
On completion of this qualification candidates may progress into employment or to the following
City & Guilds qualifications:
• Certificate in Food and Beverage Service (7066-11)
• Diploma in Food and Beverage Service (7066-12)

A full list of qualifications offered by City & Guilds is available on our website,
www.cityandguilds.com.

Europass Certificate Supplement

A Europass Certificate Supplement is available for the City & Guilds International Award in Barista
Skills.

The Certificate Supplement is part of a European initiative called Europass which aims at facilitating
mobility by making it easier to understand skills and qualifications, especially outside the issuing
country.

The Certificate Supplement can be used to help learners find a job, get experience or enrol in an
education or training programme abroad. It may also assist employers to identify the best applicant
to work for their organisation.

The Certificate Supplement sits alongside the official certificate and is supplied by the awarding
body which develops the qualification.

For more information on Europass and to download the Certificate Supplement for free, please visit
www.cityandguilds.com/europass.

10 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

4 Centre requirements
1.0 Obtaining centre and qualification approval

Only approved organisations can offer City & Guilds qualifications. Organisations approved by City &
Guilds are referred to as centres.

This section provides an outline of the process of applying for approval.

Centres must meet a set of quality criteria including:

• provision of adequate resources, both physical and human
• clear management information systems
• effective assessment and quality assurance procedures including candidate support and
reliable recording systems.

An organisation that has not previously offered City & Guilds qualifications must apply for approval
to become a centre. This is known as the centre approval process (CGI/CAP). Centres also need
approval to offer a specific qualification. This is known as the qualification approval process
(GGI/QAP), (previously known as programme approval). In order to offer this qualification,
organisations which are not already City & Guilds centres must apply for centre and qualification
approval at the same time. Existing City & Guilds centres will only need to apply for qualification
approval for these particular qualifications.

Full details of the procedures and forms for applying for centre and qualification approval are given
in Centre guide – Delivering international qualifications, which is available from City & Guilds’
international Branch Offices, the City & Guilds website or the International Customer Relations team
in our London office.

In countries where City & Guilds has a Branch Office, support will be available for new centres. They
will appoint an External Verifier. They will also provide details of fees applicable for approvals. The
Branch Office will be the point of contact for all enquiries for these qualifications and will be
responsible for monitoring the delivery and assessments through reports submitted by External
Verifiers.

In all other countries, centres wishing to apply for centre or qualification approval should contact
the Customer Relations Team in our London office.

Assessments must not be undertaken until qualification approval has been obtained.

City & Guilds reserves the right to withdraw qualification or centre approval for reasons of debt,
malpractice or non-compliance with City & Guilds’ policies, regulations, requirements, procedures
and guidelines, or for any reason that may be detrimental to the maintenance of authentic, reliable
and valid qualifications or that may prejudice the name of City & Guilds.

Further details of reasons for suspension and withdrawals, procedures and timescales, are
contained in Centre guide – Delivering international qualifications.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 11

 0 Centre requirements
2.0 Resource requirements

Physical resources
Centres must have access to sufficient equipment in the centre or workplace to ensure candidates
have the opportunity to cover all of the practical activities. It is acceptable for centres to use
specially designated areas within a centre for the unit.
In particular, it is recommended that candidates have access to an espresso machine and grinder,
and other equipment as necessary, in order to practice drinks production skills in their own time.
The equipment, systems and machinery must meet industrial standards and be capable of being
used under normal working conditions, for example calibration and operation of equipment.

Centres will need the following equipment to offer this qualification

Essential
It is essential that centres have this equipment in order to deliver the qualification:

Equipment Guidance
Traditional espresso machine –
Espresso grinder –
Filter coffee machine –
Source of boiling water –
Electric juicer This should be commercial or semi-commercial, eg a fruit to
juice machine
Blender This should be commercial, and have the capacity to crush
ice
Barista kit See below for details on the barista kit

Baristas Kit for centres

• Digital scales (capable of measuring 0.1g increments)
• Latte jug/metal jug with spout (two sizes, eg 600ml and 1L size)
• Bell jug/traditional cappuccino jug (two sizes, eg 600ml and 1L size)
• 30ml shot glasses (x3)
• Tamper
• Shot timer
• Tamping mat
• Grinder brush/paintbrush
• Grouphead brush (x3)
• Backflush tablets/powder
• Blanking disk/blind filter
• Milk jug thermometers

12 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Desirable
This equipment is recommended, but is not essential for centres to deliver the qualification.
However, operation, cleaning and maintenance of these machines is the key learning outcome:

Equipment Guidance
Bean to cup (automatic) Operation of this machine can be taught without access to
the machine, eg by use of parts, such as milk head unit, or
by visual aids
Bulk brewer –
Visual bowl juice dispenser/post mix –
juice dispenser
Commercial water boiler –
Chocolate machine (powder Operation of this machine can be taught without access to
automatic) the machine, eg by use of parts, such as hopper assembly
and whipper unit, or by visual aids

Centre staff
Staff delivering must satisfy the requirements for occupational expertise for this qualification. They
should be technically competent in the areas for which they are delivering training and have
experience of providing training.
Assessors, tutors and quality assurance staff should have the following skills and experience:
Essential
• experience of making espresso-based drinks to a commercial standard
• experience with other beverages (filter coffee, experience of the full range of drinks and tea,
chocolate, juice, smoothies and associated equipment)
• formal barista training at or above the level expected of the qualification
• understanding of problem solving related to barista drinks production (eg poor crema on
espresso; poor milk texture on cappuccino and caffé latte; inappropriate vessel and
accompaniments used; too weak, over boiled, layers, incorrect production time)
• evidence of experience of one to one and group training techniques.
Desirable
• evidence of having worked as a barista in a commercial environment.

City & Guilds recommends that staff delivering the qualification should hold or be working towards
units from the IVQ in Teaching, Training and Assessing Learning (1106) which are relevant to their
role.

Continuing professional development (CPD)

Centres are expected to support their staff in ensuring that their knowledge of the occupational
area and of best practice in delivery, mentoring, assessment and verification remains current, and
takes account of any national or legislative developments.

Further details of centre staff roles are provided under Section 2 Key Roles in Centre guide –
Delivering International Qualifications.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 13

 4 Centre requirements
3.0 Registration and certification

Administration
Full details of City & Guilds’ administrative procedures for this qualification are provided in the
International Catalogue (CD-00-1112), and online to City & Guilds approved centres via the Walled
Garden. This information includes:
• registration procedures
• enrolment numbers
• fees
• entry for examinations
• claiming certification.

Centres should follow all guidance carefully, particularly noting that fees, registration and
certification end dates for the qualification are subject to change.

Centres should be aware of time constraints regarding the registration and certification periods for
the qualification, which are specified in the International Catalogue.

Results and Certification

The administrative arrangements for registering and certificating are clearly outlined in the Centre
guide – Delivering International Qualifications.

After completion of assessment, all candidates will receive, via their centre, a Notification of
Candidate Results, giving details of how they performed. It is not a certificate of achievement.

The Notification of Candidate Results and certificates will be issued by City & Guilds to the centre for
award to successful candidates. Any enquiries about results and certification must be conducted
through the candidate’s centre.

Centres will also receive a consolidated results list detailing the performance of all candidates they
enter, whether they are successful or not.

Further information about the issue of results and certification for centres is available online at
www.cityandguilds.com or by contacting your nearest City & Guilds office.

Full certificates
Full certificates are only issued to candidates who have met the full requirements of the
qualification, as described in section 2.2 The structure of the qualification.

14 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

4 Centre requirements
4.0 Quality assurance

For this qualification international standards and rigorous quality assurance are maintained by use
of:
• City & Guilds assignments, marked by the centre according to externally set marking criteria
• internal (centre) quality assurance
• City & Guilds external verification.

Quality assurance includes initial centre approval, qualification approval and the centre’s own
internal procedures for monitoring quality. Centres are responsible for internal quality assurance,
and City & Guilds is responsible for external quality assurance.

City & Guilds’ Centre guide – Delivering International Qualifications contains detailed guidance on:
• regulations and procedures for internal and external quality assurance
• roles and responsibilities of quality assurance staff.

Internal quality assurance

Approved centres must have effective quality assurance systems to ensure optimum delivery and
assessment of qualifications.

In order to fully support candidates, centres are required to retain copies of candidates’ assessment
and internal verification records for three years after certification.

Internal Verifiers
The role of the Internal Verifier (IV) is to liaise with City & Guilds and ensure that:
• there are adequate resources, both staff and materials
• each candidate undergoes an initial assessment and induction, leading to an agreed individual
learning plan (ILP)/action plan
• the work of all personnel contributing to the delivery and assessment of the programme is
sampled by a range of methods
• records of all sampling activities are monitored and maintained
• where several members of staff are involved in the delivery and assessment of the
qualifications, there is a consistent interpretation of the requirements through standardisation
activities and that these are documented
• all staff carrying out delivery and assessment are familiar with and understand the unit
requirements
• an appropriate referral policy is in place
• candidate evidence is clearly organised and accessible to the External Verifier
• relevant records and pro formas are completed and maintained.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 15

 Tutors/Assessors
The role of the Tutor/Assessor is to:
• plan, manage, deliver and assess the qualification
• devise a suitable programme for delivery and assessment for the mandatory and optional units
• ensure that each candidate is aware of the assessment requirements throughout their
programme of learning
• provide guidance and support to candidates on the assessment and evidence requirements for
each unit
• ensure that the assessment and evidence requirements have been met by the candidate
• observe delivered sessions or nominate a suitable observer, maintaining details of all nominated
observers
• complete relevant records and pro formas.

External quality assurance

External quality assurance for the qualification will be provided by the City & Guilds external
verification process.

External Verifiers are appointed by City & Guilds to approve centres, and to monitor the assessment
and internal quality assurance carried out by centres. External verification is carried out to ensure
that assessment is valid and reliable, and that there is good assessment practice in centres.

To carry out their quality assurance role, External Verifiers must have appropriate occupational and
verifying knowledge and expertise. They attend training and development designed to keep them
up-to-date, facilitate standardisation between Verifiers and share good practice.

External Verifiers
The role of the External Verifier is to:
• make approval visits/recommendations (where necessary) to confirm that centres can satisfy
the approval criteria
• help centres to develop internal assessment and evidence evaluation systems that are fair,
reliable, accessible and non-discriminatory
• ensure that Internal Verifiers are undertaking their duties satisfactorily
• monitor internal quality assurance systems and sampling, including direct observation,
assessment activities, methods and records
• approve centre devised model answers to knowledge questions
• sample knowledge answers, reports and evidence requirements
• check claims for certification to ensure they are authentic, valid and supported by auditable
records
• act as a source of advice and support to centres, including help with interpretation of standards
• promote best practice
• provide prompt, accurate and constructive feedback to all relevant parties on the operation of
centres’ assessment systems
• confirm that centres have implemented any corrective actions required
• report back to City & Guilds’ head office or the relevant Branch Office
• maintain records of centre visits and make these available for auditing purposes.

16 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

5 Course design and delivery

Recommended delivery strategies

Centre staff should familiarise themselves with the structure, content and assessment requirements
of the qualification before designing a course programme.
In particular, staff should consider the skills and knowledge related to the content of the unit.
Provided that the requirements for the qualification are met, centres may design course
programmes of study in any way that they feel best meets the needs and capabilities of their
candidates. Centres may wish to include topics as part of the course programme, which will not be
assessed through the qualification.
It is recommended that candidates have access to a grinder/espresso machine on which they can
practice drinks production outside of the guided learning hours for this qualification.

Relationship to other qualifications and wider curriculum

City & Guilds recommends centres address the wider curriculum, where appropriate, when
designing and delivering the course.

Areas that centres should consider are:

• language skills
• literacy skills
• numeracy skills
• ICT skills
• professional values and practice
• relevant cultural, social, local, moral and spiritual issues.

Equal opportunities
It is a requirement of centre approval that centres have an equal opportunities policy. Further
information is provided in the Centre guide – Delivering international qualifications. City & Guilds’
equal opportunities policy is also available to download from the City & Guilds website.

Access to assessment
City & Guilds provides guidance and regulations to facilitate fair access to assessments and
qualifications for candidates who are eligible for adjustments to assessment arrangements. Access
arrangements are designed to allow attainment to be demonstrated. For further information, please
see Access to assessment and qualifications, available on the City & Guilds website.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 17

 Appeals
Centres must have their own, auditable, appeals procedure that must be explained to candidates
during their induction. Appeals must be fully documented by the Quality Assurance Co-ordinator
and made available to the External Verifier or City & Guilds.

Further information on appeals is given in Centre guide – Delivering International Qualifications.

There is also appeals information for centres and learners on the City & Guilds website or available
from the Customer Relations department.

Health and safety

Safe working practice is an integral part of all City & Guilds qualifications and assessments. It is the
responsibility of centres to ensure that all relevant health and safety requirements are in place
before candidates start practical assessments.

Should a candidate fail to follow health and safety practice and procedures during an assessment
the assessment must be stopped and the candidate advised of the reasons why. The candidate
should be informed that they have failed the assessment. Candidates may retake the assessment at
a later date, at the discretion of the centre. In any cases of doubt, guidance should be sought from
the External Verifier.

Data protection and confidentiality

Data protection and confidentiality must not be overlooked when planning the delivery of this
qualification. Detailed guidance is provided in Centre guide – Delivering international qualifications.

Centres offering this qualification may need to provide City & Guilds with personal data for staff and
candidates. In doing so, centres will need to comply with applicable local data protection laws and
regulations.

18 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

6 Relationships to other qualifications

NQF QCA City & Guilds qualifications Other Academic

Level* Original vocational qualifications
Level awards (approximate
equivalent)
8 Fellowship (FCGI) Doctorate
Master’s degree
Membership (MCGI)
Postgraduate
5 Master Professional Diploma
7 diploma
SVQ/NVQ level 5
Postgraduate
Level 5 vocational awards
certificate
Bachelor’s degree
Graduateship (GCGI) Graduate
6
Associateship (ACGI)*** certificate and
diploma
BTEC Higher national
Higher diplomas
IVQ Advanced Technician National Foundation
5 4 Diploma** Diploma / degree
Full Technological Diploma** Higher Diplomas of
National higher and further
Certificate education
Licentiateship (LCGI)
Higher Professional Diploma Certificate of
4
SVQ/NVQ level 4 Higher Education
Level 4 vocational awards
Advanced
SVQ/NVQ level 3
Vocational
Level 3 vocational awards
Certificate
Advanced Apprenticeship
in
(England and NI) A level
3 3 Education
Modern Apprenticeship (Scotland Scottish Higher
BTEC
and Wales)
National
IVQ Technician Diploma**
Certificate /
IVQ Advanced Diploma**
Diploma
SVQ/NVQ level 2
Level 2 vocational awards
GCSE grades A*-C
Apprenticeship (England and NI)
BTEC First Scottish
2 2 Foundation Modern
Certificate Intermediate
Apprenticeship (Wales)
2/Credit S Grade
IVQ Technician Certificate**
IVQ Diploma**
GCSE grades D-G
SVQ/NVQ level 1
Scottish
1 1 Level 1 vocational awards
Intermediate
IVQ Certificate**
1/General S Grade
Scottish Access
3/Foundation S
Entry Entry Entry level vocational awards Grade
Scottish Access
1-2
* The National Qualifications Framework of England, Wales and Northern Ireland (NQF)
** Nearest comparable level
*** Only graduates of the City & Guilds College, Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine are
awarded the Associateship (ACGI)

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 19

 7 Assessment
0.0 Summary of assessment requirements

For this qualification, candidates will be required to complete the following assessments:
• one assignment for the mandatory unit, including short answer questions.

Unit Title Assessment Method Where to obtain

number assessment materials
002 Barista Assignment Download Assessment Pack
skills and Answer Pack from the
website:
The assessment covers the www.cityandguilds.com
practical activities for all
outcomes and will also use a
short answer question test to NB: these documents are
sample underpinning password protected.
knowledge to verify coverage of Centres should follow the
the unit. instructions on the
webpage to obtain these
passwords.
Externally set assignment and
short answer questions, locally
marked and externally verified.

20 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

0 Assessment

Time constraints
The following time constraints must be applied to the assessment of this qualification.
• It is anticipated that the assignment (not including the short answer questions) should take
approximately 30 minutes to complete, including set up and clean down.
• In particular the drinks production element of the practical task in the assignment should
take no longer than 16 minutes to complete (this element of the task is timed, and
candidates can gain marks for quicker drinks production). Centres finding that assignments
are taking longer should contact the External Verifier for guidance.
• It is anticipated that the short answer questions which form part of the assessment will be
sat separately. There is no time limit for these questions.

Grading and marking

Assessments will be graded pass, merit or distinction.
Detailed marking and grading criteria, and assessor guidance, are provided in the Assessment Pack
for this qualification.
The assignment is internally marked, graded and externally verified.

Simulation
Part of the assignment for this qualification consists of a drinks service. Candidates are not
expected to be assessed while serving real customers, but the assessment should be conducted in
a way that simulates as closely as possible the delivery of a real drinks order.
The machinery used to assess practical activities must be of a commercial standard and be capable
of being used under normal working conditions.

Regulations for the conduct of examinations

Regulations for the conduct of examinations for online and written examinations are given in Centre
Guide – Delivering International Qualifications. Centres should ensure they are familiar with all
requirements prior to offering assessments.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 21

 Unit 002 Barista Skills

Rationale
This unit provides candidates with specialist skills and knowledge in one of the major growth areas
of the hospitality industry – the beverage sector. The unit is aimed at all first line operatives where
coffee is served – this includes coffee bars, coffee houses, cafes, hotels and restaurants.
Candidates will be introduced to the full range of products used in making beverages. They will
learn where the products come from, and some of the processes they go through, from growing to
the final drink. They will also learn the importance of taking care of the products in order to provide
an excellent final result.
The unit also looks at the full range of equipment, identifies safety aspects and how to operate the
equipment to deliver the desired drink quality. Candidates will bring together the knowledge and
skills acquired to produce good quality drinks consistently. Candidates will be able to identify and
correct problems as they arise.
The unit covers the importance of presenting a positive personal image and the use of effective
communication techniques.
The unit is designed to be taken as a stand-alone qualification to increase specialist skills and
knowledge, but it can also be taken alongside other qualifications.

Learning outcomes
There are four outcomes to this unit. The candidate will be able to
• demonstrate product knowledge
• clean and check equipment
• display drink building techniques
• serve customers.

Guided learning hours

City & Guilds defines guided learning hours (GLH) as the amount of contact time, including
assessment, which is likely to be required for a candidate to complete all the knowledge and
practical requirements for the qualification for which he or she is studying. Additional time may be
required by candidates for self study, research and unsupervised practice.

It is recommended 20 GLH should be allocated for this unit. This may be on a full time or part time
basis. It is strongly recommended that candidates new to producing espresso-based drinks spend
time outside these hours practising their skills under supervision of their manager/supervisor.

Assessment and grading

The outcomes for this unit will be assessed on the basis of evidence produced as a result of the
candidate completing a practical assignment and a short answer question test.
The method of assessment is designed to enable the candidates to produce the evidence to meet
the requirements of the outcomes. The time required for candidates to meet the outcomes of the
unit will vary according to their abilities, motivation, prior experience and access to learning
resources. It is recommended that candidates are given access to working practice in industry
wherever possible and any such access must be in compliance with the relevant health, hygiene,
safety and company regulations. In particular, candidates should have access to an espresso
machine/grinder on which they can practise drinks production outside of the guided learning hours
for this qualification.

22 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Unit 002 Barista skills
Outcome 1 Demonstrate product knowledge

Practical skills
The candidate will be able to:
1 Outline characteristics of the product to customers
2 Deal with customer queries effectively
3 Handle and store products and ingredients correctly and safely

Underpinning knowledge
The candidate will be able to:
1 Describe the origin and flavour of products and ingredients
2 Describe the processes involved in bringing the products to the market
3 Explain how processes may affect the quality of products and ingredients
4 Compare characteristics of products
5 Describe how to store and handle products and ingredients

Range
Characteristics
Flavour and visual characteristics in coffee, tea and chocolate of different varieties, origin and
processing methods, flavour and performance characteristics of different milk varieties, fruits
added to juices and smoothies, shelf life, both packaged and after first opening, potential food
allergies

Products and ingredients

Coffee, tea, infusions, juices, fruit and ingredients for smoothies, chocolate, milk, cream, syrups,
soya milk and other non-dairy milk, cinnamon powder

Origin
Countries of origin, growing, picking, releasing, preparing for export, wet and dry process (coffee
bean extraction)

Processes
Decaffeination, roasting, packaging

How to store and handle

Storage, use by dates, sell by date, display merchandising

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 23

 Unit 002 Barista skills
Outcome 2 Clean and check equipment

Practical skills

The candidate will be able to:

1 Check and clean equipment before use

2 Check and clean equipment after use

3 Dispose of waste safely and hygienically

Underpinning knowledge

The candidate will be able to:

1 Identify the range of equipment available for each product

2 Explain the brewing/production process relevant to equipment

3 Describe the checks required for each piece of equipment, including the frequency

4 Explain the cleaning process for each piece of equipment

5 Explain how common faults might occur with each piece of equipment

6 Describe the actions to take for each common fault

7 State the importance of leaving areas clean, tidy and safe

8 Outline methods of dealing with waste and rubbish

9 State the main employer responsibilities and employee responsibilities as stated in the
appropriate local and national legislation

Range
Equipment
Espresso grinder, espresso machine, filter brewer, bean-to-cup or fully automated machine, boiler,
blender, juicer, chocolate machines, filters, filter holders, juice machine, barista kit, gas charged
whipped cream dispenser

Product
Coffee, tea, juices, smoothies, chocolate, milk

Brewing/production process
Filter coffee/drip machine – making with filter papers and brew basket
Cafetiere coffee/French press – type of grind, amount of coffee, brewing time
Espresso coffee – temperature, grind, tamping and volume
Tea – water temperature, brewing time
Chocolate – product mixture requirements, whipping
Juice – product temperature, dilution ratio, fresh versus ambient product
Smoothies – product temperature, mixing

Cleaning process
Backflushing, cleaning group seals, general cleaning

24 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Common faults
Blocked showers or steam wands, pressure problems, temperature/steam problems, leaks, filter,
steamer arm, contamination/blockage

Actions
Cleaning, informing qualified engineers

Importance of leaving areas clean, tidy and safe

Health and safety requirement, public image, product quality, professionalism, better management
of busy periods

Methods of dealing with waste and rubbish

Following organisation and manufacturers’ guidelines, use of knock-out drawer

Employer responsibilities
As per local and national legislation

Employee responsibilities
As per local and national legislation

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 25

 Unit 002 Barista skills
Outcome 3 Display drink building techniques

Practical skills

The candidate will be able to:

1 Calibrate pieces of equipment as necessary

2 Operate pieces of equipment to produce the drink required

3 Check drink meets quality standards and correct as necessary

Underpinning knowledge

The candidate will be able to:

1 Outline the calibration and operation of equipment

2 List the drinking vessels and ancillaries required for drinks

3 Describe the quality characteristics for the range of drinks

4 Outline the reasons for professional, methodical, organised and clean working practices

5 Explain how to correct common presentation problems for the range of drinks

Range
Equipment
Espresso grinder, espresso machine, filter brewer, bean-to-cup or fully automated machine, boiler,
blender, juicer, chocolate machines, filters, filter holders, juice machine, barista kit, gas charged
whipped cream dispenser

Quality standards/quality characteristics

Flavour, appearance

Calibration and operation of equipment

Calibration of grinder to produce optimum espresso shot, calibration of espresso machine (water
quantity and temperature), foaming and texturing milk, producing filter and cafetiere coffee,
operating a bar blender and juicer, following manufacturers’ instructions, complying with health and
safety regulations, using measured quantities

Drinking vessels and ancillaries

Cups, mugs, glasses as appropriate to each drink, barista equipment (tampers, jugs,
thermometers), kitchen equipment

Common presentation problems

Poor crema on espresso, poor milk texture on cappuccino and caffé latte, inappropriate vessel and
accompaniments used, too weak, over boiled, layers, incorrect production time

26 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Unit 002 Barista skills
Outcome 4 Serve customers

Practical skills

The candidate will be able to:

1 Present a positive personal image

2 Use appropriate communication techniques with customers

3 Serve customers in an efficient manner

4 Ensure service is completed appropriately and satisfactorily

Underpinning knowledge

The candidate will be able to:

1 Outline the benefits to organisations of providing excellent customer service

2 Explain the consequences of poor customer service

3 Describe the personal appearance and presentation required for service

4 Describe positive body language techniques

5 Explain how to make a customer feel welcome

6 Outline organisational procedures for handling customer complaints

7 Explain the importance of listening skills when handling customer complaints

8 Outline organisational procedures for processing transactions

9 State different payment methods

Range
Personal image
Appearance and presentation, body language, professional manner, showing integrity, maintaining
confidentiality, trustworthiness, loyalty to customer, supporting colleagues, loyalty to the
organisation

Communication techniques
Verbal communication – clear speech including menus and drinks, appropriate tone, language,
volume

Benefits
Customer satisfaction, repeat business, word of mouth publicity, increased sales, increased
company profits, increased staff morale, increased staff satisfaction

Consequences
Dissatisfaction, no repeat business, decreased sales, decreased staff morale, decreased staff
satisfaction

Personal appearance and presentation

Appropriate clothing, grooming, personal hygiene

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 27

 Body language techniques
Posture, gestures, mannerisms, eye contact, facial expressions

Procedures for handling customer complaints

Acknowledging problem, listen to the customer, confirm next action, follow up, confirmation of
customer satisfaction

Listening skills
Active listening, passive listening, summarising, paraphrasing

Procedures for processing transactions

Communicate amount due, agree payment method, take payment, give receipt, answer queries

Payment methods
Cash, cheque, debit card, credit card, store/loyalty card, voucher, travellers’ cheques

28 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Unit 002 Barista Skills
Notes for guidance

It should be recognised that those working towards the International Award in Barista Skills may fall
in to several brackets. They may already be doing a related qualification such as the City & Guilds
Certificate or Diploma in Food and Beverage Service (7066), and may see this as a benefit to add
onto the existing qualification. Equally those already in the industry should have the ability to be
recognised for the skills they have gained.

Whatever path a candidate takes, it is important that they are aware of the level of commitment
required to become a successful barista. It should be made clear that professional standards are
essential and that demonstrating good practice and behavioural attitudes are vital for anyone
looking for a career within this sector. Good attendance and punctuality should reflect the
expectations of employers. Successful teamwork will depend on the efforts of each individual.

It is intended that candidates will obtain a well-rounded comprehensive education and training in
barista skills. This will include learning and understanding of products, cleaning and checking
equipment, producing non-alcoholic beverages and dealing with all customer queries. This means
that candidates will be able to serve customers whilst ensuring orders are accurate and meet the
request given. The candidate will learn to multi-task which will enhance future career progression
both inside and outside the organisation.

Most of these skills will be learned in training areas, but to underpin delivery and give the candidate
the best chance of successfully completing this unit, practical activities should take place in realistic
working conditions.

Practical work experience will be of benefit for candidates to demonstrate their abilities in a real life
environment and build their confidence and speed of service. Equally guest speakers from local
employers and visits to local coffee bars, restaurants, hotels and conference centres should be
encouraged to ensure teaching and learning is in line with industry standards.

In order to prepare candidates for the practical assignment it is essential that all the range
statements listed in the unit are covered throughout the teaching process. It is recommended that
the assessor refer to the assessment grid contained in the assessment pack for the range of
beverages to be produced.

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 29

 Appendix 1 Support materials

The following websites may provide a useful source for research of industry bodies:

Websites
Beverage Service Association www.beverageserviceassociation.com
World Coffee Organisation www.positivelycoffee.org
Specialty Coffee Association of Europe www.scae.com
International Coffee Organisation www.ico.org
The Tea Council www.tea.co.uk
The Biscuit, Cake, Chocolate www.bccca.org.uk
and Confectionary Association
The British Soft Drinks Association www.britishsoftdrinks.com

30 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)

Appendix 2 Glossary of terms used in the unit

The following key words and terms are used in the units.

Term Definition
Barista A trained individual who is capable of producing, presenting and serving a
full range of non-alcoholic hot and cold beverages.
Calibration The adjustment of machinery to determine the exact measurement, quantity,
volume of liquid, temperature and time of extraction production to ensure
the optimum quality. Principally refers to coffee grinders and coffee
machines (espresso sets).
Bean-to-cup / A fully automatic machine that grinds, tamps, produces espresso, foams the
fully milk, and produces a complete drink on the press of a pre-programmed
automated button.
machine

International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52) 31

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32 International Award in Barista Skills (7102-52)