Coffee Career

– FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS –

Below you’ll find answers to the most popular questions we get asked a lot (and some we have yet to be asked) but all helpful to those wishing to further or begin a coffee career at the Scottish Barista Academy. 

How do I get to the Scottish Barista Academy?
The Academy is situated in Livingston and the nearest train station is Livingston North which is approximately 25 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley or 40 Minutes from Glasgow Queen Street Underground.
How do I get from the train station to the academy?
As long as you arrive at the station between 09.00 and 09.15, a car will pick you up and take you to the academy. After completion of the course you will be taken back to Livingston North station.

If you are later arriving taxis are usually available at the station. Or you can phone 0800 849 8808

If you are coming to the academy by car the postcode for your sat-nav is EH54 6TW. There is ample free parking.

Course time
Courses start at 09.30hrs and finish at approximately 16.30 hrs/17.00 hrs.
Clothing
Casual. Please, no sandals or open-toed shoes as you will be dealing with very hot water.
What should I bring with me?
Just bring yourself.

Be happy!

Be positive!

We will provide you with all the necessary Barista literature.

Are the exams difficult
No they are not.  The foundation, intermediate and professional are all 2-part examinations – a practical exam and a written exam.  Everything on the curriculum in all the disciplines will be covered – and much more! The pass marks required are:

  • 60% Foundation
  • 70% Intermediate
  • 80% Professional
How large are the classes
We like to keep class sizes small so everyone can be hands-on
Accommodation
There are several hotels/B&B’s in the area if you are doing a 2-day course or staying overnight.  Contact us and we can give you details and options.
Lunch
Lunch will be provided. We do a light buffet lunch. Let us know if you have any intolerances or allergies or dislikes and we will do our very best to accommodate you.
What if I do not like coffee
Don’t worry about it!

We will do our best to convert you but I promise after you have completed the course you will never look at a coffee grinder or an espresso machine in the same way again!

Cancellation & Refund Policy
Once your course is confirmed and paid for, the Scottish Barista Academy refund policy is as follows:
 

21 days or more notice: We will provide a full refund or an alternative date for training.

7 to 20 days notice: A 50% refund will be offered or an alternative date for training subject to our own training schedule.

Fewer than 7 days notice: We are unable to offer a refund but may still be able to offer you an alternative date.