Barista Skills for Teens 16+ & Adults in Hilton
The JC Coffee Table
A good cup of coffee begins with understanding what goes into it. At Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine in Hilton, our Barista Skills course gives teens aged 16 and over and adults an opportunity to develop their beverage preparation and customer-service skills in a supportive learning environment.
Perhaps you are considering a future in hospitality. Perhaps you already have a coffee machine at home and would like to use it with more confidence. This course brings practical learning to the coffee table, with attention to both the drinks you prepare and the people you serve.
Barista training in Hilton: the course at a glance
241 Old Howick Road, Hilton, KwaZulu-Natal
What you will learn
Making and serving drinks involves more than operating a machine. You will learn about different hot and cold beverages, the ingredients used to prepare them and the standards that guide good service.
- Understand the types and characteristics of different hot and cold beverages and the ingredients available.
- Develop the skills to engage with customers and serve them to organisational standards.
- Learn to prepare and serve a variety of beverages to organisational standards.
A practical step towards greater confidence
For teens, the course offers a chance to explore an interest in hospitality while still at school. For adults, it offers time to develop a practical skill, consider hospitality opportunities or deepen an existing interest in coffee.
Learning in a chef-school setting brings preparation and service together. The aim is to build confidence alongside skills that can be useful in hospitality and everyday life.
Working towards the Highfield award
The course is intended to prepare learners for the Highfield Level 2 Award in Barista Skills (RQF), with the final examination scheduled for December 2026. Successful completion of the qualification requirements is necessary to receive the award.
Contact the school for the examination date, assessment requirements and any preparation required between the scheduled classes and the examination.
Getting ready for class
All equipment and ingredients are provided. Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes, and bring a notebook and water bottle. Bring your questions too: understanding what you are doing is part of developing confidence.
The school is at 241 Old Howick Road, Hilton, in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Get directions to Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine
Apply for The JC Coffee Table
Interested in joining the Barista Skills course? Email admin@jackiecameron.co.za to apply and request the registration and payment details. Please confirm your place with the school before attending.
If this sparks a broader interest in culinary training, you can also explore Jackie Cameron School of Food & Wine.
Frequently asked questions
Who is this course for?
The course is open to teens aged 16 and over and adults. It may appeal to school learners exploring hospitality, adults developing practical skills and coffee enthusiasts who want to get more from their home coffee equipment. Contact the school to discuss whether it suits your experience and goals.
When are the classes?
Classes are scheduled for Sunday 11 October, Sunday 18 October, Sunday 25 October and Sunday 1 November 2026, from 08:00 to 12:00 each day. These are four sessions within one course.
How much does the course cost?
The advertised fee is R10 000 per student. All equipment and ingredients are provided. Ask the school to confirm payment arrangements and whether examination and certification fees are included.
What qualification will I work towards?
The course is intended to prepare learners for the Highfield Level 2 Award in Barista Skills (RQF). The final examination is scheduled for December 2026. The award depends on successfully meeting the qualification requirements; contact the school for the assessment arrangements.
What should I wear and bring?
Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes. Bring a notebook and water bottle. The school provides the equipment and ingredients for the course.
Can I still apply?
Yes. Applications remain open. Email admin@jackiecameron.co.za to apply and request registration details. Please confirm your place before attending.