TAFE NSW will launch the Coffs Coast’s first coffee academy this month at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus. The state-of-the-art facilities are equipped to deliver a range of courses including barista and customer service skills.

The first two of a range of ongoing short courses will be delivered to aspiring baristas this August; a TAFE Statement in Basic Barista Skills and a TAFE Statement in Advanced Barista Skills, with more courses to be announced later this year.

The Academy is equipped with seven work stations each fully equipped with a coffee machine and the tools needed for brewing with an outward-facing work station to cater for onsite customers, providing students with the practical skills and experience of working in an operational café.

TAFE NSW Head Teacher of Hospitality Philip Caldicott said this academy is a much-needed addition for Coffs Harbour.

“The TAFE NSW Coffee Academy is exactly is what the Coffs Coast region needs in order to enhance the skills of people working in the hospitality and tourism industry and to take the local café culture to the next level,” said Mr Caldicott.

“Cafés and restaurants have become an integral part of the Coffs Coast’s growth in the tourism industry and TAFE NSW is building a pipeline of skilled workers to meet employment demands.” 

Three in four (75%) residents of the Coffs Coast enjoy at least one cup of coffee per day, which is evenly divided between those who prefer instant coffee and espresso coffee.i

The concept for the TAFE NSW Coffee Academy was developed in consultation with the hospitality industry as an opportunity for training and development to service business and customer needs, in particular those focused on youth employment within the region.

The facility will also provide increased opportunities for industry partnerships and collaboration onsite with local cafés and coffee roasters such as Artisti showing strong support for the facility.

“Coffs Harbour coffee drinkers are very discerning and tend to demand a high standard from the cafes they choose to buy coffee from,” said Artisti Founder and Operator Luke Floyd.

“To lift that standard, what we need is extremely well-trained baristas who are passionate about the art of making exceptional coffee. I believe the new facility will be a big win for local coffee drinkers and the industry.”

The interior of the academy is adorned with street art inspired murals by local artist Ash Johnston from Open Air Studios.

For more information about TAFE NSW courses, please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, TAFE NSW Media Officer, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au