FAQs


ABOUT THE TRAINING CENTRE


Q. How are your classes different to other barista training classes.

A. The WA Barista Training Lab is operated by our parent company, Rubra Coffee, a trusted coffee brand in Perth since 2004. As well as supplying wholesale cafes, the corporate market and developing an award winning retail brand including coffee and tea, Rubra Coffee has expanded to include a successful drive-through and cafe. This experience gives us an in-depth understanding of both coffee and hospitality business operations. Our trainers, with decades of hospitality experience and a passion for the science and craft of coffee-making, have trained countless baristas, both within our establishments and for our wholesale clients.

We take pride in our unique approach to barista training - our courses are delivered by expert baristas who delve deeply into the science behind espresso and coffee, ensuring participants understand both the "how" and the "why" of each step in the coffee-making process. We keep class sizes small, allowing our trainers to give individualised attention to each student. Our head trainer, with over 15 years of barista experience and a Certificate IV in Training and Assessment, has developed our curriculum to offer a distinctive learning experience. Emphasising the latest in coffee innovations and grounding in scientific principles, we make sure complex topics are simplified and presented in an easy to understand way. Every class is crafted with the VARK learning modalities in mind, catering to all four learning styles: visual, auditory, reading/writing, and kinaesthetic. This holistic approach ensures each student will get the maximum value and understanding from our training.

Q. Is your training centre inclusive?

A. Yes, our centre is committed to inclusivity, ensuring all participants, regardless of background or ability, have equal access to our training programs and resources. If you require a carer or attendant to assist you during the class, they can attend free of charge with a Companion Card. We do ask that you notify us in advance to ensure we are prepared for their attendance by emailing mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au.

Q. Is the facility wheelchair accessible?

A. Yes, our facility is wheelchair accessible, including an ACROD bay and a disabled toilet. Please contact us before your visit to discuss any accommodations you may require, based on your specific needs by emailing mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au.

 

CLASS INFORMATION

Q. How much do the classes cost?

A. Choose the class you are interested in here to see the class details, price, and available dates.

Q. What are the dates are the classes run?

A. Choose the class you are interested in here to see the class details, price, and available dates.

Q. Where can I find information about each class you offer?

A. Choose the class you are interested in here to see the class details, price, and available dates. For any further questions about the course curriculum, please email us at mail@wabristatraininglab.com.au.

Q. How big are the classes?

A. Our classes are intentionally kept small, with a maximum of 6 students in each class. This allows for more direct interaction with the trainer and fosters a more conducive learning environment. For the Home Barista class, we limit the size to 4 students to ensure more personalised attention as your trainer helps you dial in your home espresso machine.

Q. Will I be sharing a machine with other students?

A. We use two group, commercial espresso machines. There are three machines in the centre, with a grinder for each group. This means each student is equipped with their own grinder, group head, and steam wand, ensuring an individualised learning experience.

Q. Is the training accredited?

A. In Australia, the only certified training available for coffee is the unit “Prepare and Serve Espresso Coffee (SITHFAB025)”. We've found that for most cafes specialising in quality and specialty coffee, this certified training doesn’t carry much significance. Our training goes beyond the standards and content of this unit, drawing from the latest coffee training and integrating elements of coffee science. While we don’t provide accredited training, participants will receive a Certificate of Completion after each class, which can be presented to potential employers.

Q. Do you provide plant-based milk in the classes?

A. In all classes, we use Brownes Extra Creamy milk, as most coffees made in a cafe use dairy milk. However, in certain classes, you will have the opportunity to work with Alternative Dairy Company plant-based milks in Almond, Oat, and Soy. If you'd like to drink a coffee during the class, you can choose from any of the mentioned milks or opt for Brownes HiLo and Brownes Lactose Free milk. If you prefer to exclusively use plant-based milk throughout the class, this can be arranged for an additional fee. Please reach out to us in advance to organise this by emailing mail@wabaritstraininglab.com.au.

Q. Are there any pre-requisites for the classes?

A. For Barista Essentials & Barista Essentials Plus, no experience is needed. For Latte Art & Milk Chemistry, experience isn't mandatory, but familiarity with espresso machines and milk texturing is beneficial. Espresso Mastery requires an understanding of espresso extraction to get the most out of the class. For Home Barista, no experience is needed. If you aren’t sure which class is right for you, please contact us at mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au for assistance.

Q. Will the Barista Classes help me get work as a barista?

A. For the best preparation to work as a barista, we suggest taking these classes in order:
1. Barista Essentials Plus
2. Milk Chemistry & Latte Art
3. Barista Mastery.
This will give you a well-rounded skillset in the theory and making of espresso coffee and how to best apply it to your workflow in a café environment.

Just as there are many varieties of cafes, they also have varied expectations for barista roles. Smaller cafes might consider hiring you straight after training, while larger establishments may expect you to gain more experience first. To stay updated on job opportunities with the Perth region, we recommend joining the "WA Baristas" and “WA Barista Network” Facebook groups, where many cafe owners post job vacancies.

Q. Do you accept international students?

A. Yes, we welcome all students to the WA Barista Training Lab. We do recommend you have intermediate English listening and comprehension skills to get the most value from the classes. We also have a Barista Essentials class that is taught in mix of English and Spanish by a Spanish speaking trainer, you can book it here.

Q. Do you offer classes for high school students?

A. Certainly. For individual students or small groups, we recommend the Barista Essentials Plus class. For high schools with a cafe setup seeking training with an emphasis theory and hands-on practice, we can arrange a group class to fit your timetable. For more details, please reach out to us at mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au.

Q. Do you offer classes tailored for corporate team building or group bookings?

A. We sure do! We provide specialised classes suited for corporate teams or group sessions. These sessions can be a unique way to foster teamwork and offer a refreshing break from the usual. For more information or to make a booking, please reach out to us at mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au.

Q. I’m opening a café; would attending a course benefit me?

A. Absolutely. Even if you don't intend to work as a barista in the cafe, attending a course can empower you to troubleshoot issues, cover shifts in emergencies, assist during peak times, and help provide training to new barista staff. Understanding the intricacies of the role can be invaluable in ensuring smooth café operations. We recommend the Barista Essentials class or the Barista Essentials Plus class for more hands-on practice.

Q. Can you provide training on-site at my café?

A. While we don't conduct on-site café training, Rubra Coffee does provide a café specific, 3-step barista program tailored for our Rubra wholesale customers, which we facilitate at the WA Barista Training Lab. These courses are tailored specifically for baristas in cafes, focusing on coffee science, understanding espresso extraction and grinder adjustment, perfecting latte art, and enhancing workflow efficiency. If you're seeking training for your cafe staff, we encourage you to connect with us to determine if this program aligns with your needs. It's important to note that using Rubra Coffee isn't a prerequisite for these classes. At the WA Barista Training Lab, our primary objective is to deliver unparalleled training to all baristas and can provide training solutions to fill in any gaps that your current roaster might not be able to provide.

Q. I have a machine at home or I’m considering purchasing one. Which class should I book?

A. Perfect! We offer a Home Barista class tailored just for you. There are a wide variety of excellent domestic machines available, catering to various budgets. Some of these machines, however, demand a deeper understanding of espresso theory to fully unlock their potential. In our Home Barista class, we ask you to bring in your machine to work on, or if you don't own a machine yet, we'll provide one for you to use during the session. In this class, your trainer will teach you the theory of great espresso and together you will learn how to dial in your machine to achieve delicious espresso every time. If you have further questions regarding your specific machine or the course outline, please email us at mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au.

 

MAKING A BOOKING AND ATTENDING A CLASS

Q. How do I book and pay?

A. All bookings must be made online at www.wabaristatraininglab.com.au. If you require a quote before payment or a Tax Invoice, please email us mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au with as much detail as possible.

Q. Can I cancel my class?

A. Bookings can be cancelled up to 48 hours before the scheduled class start time. All cancellation requests must be submitted online through the link received in the booking confirmation email. For more information, please refer to our Course Booking Terms and Conditions.

Q. Can I reschedule my class?

A.  Bookings can be rescheduled up to 48 hours before the scheduled class start time. All rescheduling requests must be made online through the link received in the booking confirmation email. For more information, please refer to our Course Booking Terms and Conditions.

Q. Can I transfer my booking to another person?

A. You may transfer your course enrolment to another person if you can't attend the course. To request the transfer, please email mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au before the course start date, providing the Replacement's full name and contact information including email address and contact number. We will confirm and approve the transfer via written acknowledgment. For more information, please refer to our Course Booking Terms and Conditions.

Q. How can I contact you in regard to a booking I’ve already made?

A. Questions about bookings can be directed to mail@wabaristatraininglab.com.au. Please include as much detail as possible including your order number, which class you booked for, and the date of the class.

Q. What do I need to bring to class?

A. You will be provided a set of notes at the start of the class and a pen. You are welcome to use these to take extra notes or bring your own notebook and pen. 

Q. Is lunch provided in the Barista Essentials Plus full day class?

A. During the full day class, there is time allocated for a lunch break. We ask that you bring your own lunch or you can purchase it from a local food venue. Do keep in mind that there aren't any food venues within walking distance of the training centre, so you'll require transportation to access them.

Q. Is there a dress code?

A. The only requirement is to wear closed in shoes to satisfy workplace health and safety guidelines. We do recommend that you leave your favourite white clothes and white shoes at home. Making coffee can be very messy and it’s likely you’ll get espresso and coffee grind on them, which can stain.

Q. Where are you located?

A. We are located at the Rubra Coffee warehouse – 11 Jones St, O’Connor. When you enter the warehouse carpark, we are in the building through the double doors on the right.

Q. Is there parking available?

A. Yes, there is verge parking available across the road on weekdays, and the warehouse car park is open to use on the weekends.

Q. What do I go when I arrive?

A. When you enter the warehouse carpark, we are in the building through the double doors on the right. You’ll see the WA Barista Training Lab logo on the wall to the right of the doors.

Q. What do I do if I’m running late?

A. We request that you aim to arrive 10-15 minutes before the class starts to account for potential traffic, allow yourself time to settle in, and for your trainer to prepare a coffee for you. Regrettably, if you're running late, you won't be able to contact your trainer as they'll be tending to the class and other students. We suggest planning your route ahead of the class date to ensure timely arrival. As stated in our terms and conditions: “Participants who arrive more than 20 minutes after the scheduled start time may not be allowed to join the class and may be considered as a no-show.”

 

GIFT VOUCHERS

Q. How do I purchase a gift voucher?

  1. You can purchase gift vouchers here.
  2. Choose your denomination and number of vouchers
  3. Continue through the checkout process
  4. Your voucher will be emailed once the transaction has been completed successfully. Please check your junk folder.

Q. I have a gift voucher, how can I redeem it?

A. Gift vouchers can be redeemed online through the WA Barista Training Lab's website. When redeeming the voucher, enter your unique code into the discount section at checkout after selecting and adding a class to your cart.

Q. What do I do if the voucher still has an amount left to use?

A. The code will still be redeemable if there is a value left to use. If the value left on the gift voucher is less than the total cost of a class, you will need to pay the balance at checkout.