SCA Training

Brewing Foundation

The official introductory course on brewing, extraction, and flavor balance

* Includes the manual, lunch, and certificate fees

Learn the basics of brewing, extraction, and flavor

The SCA Brewing Foundation course introduces the key principles of professional coffee brewing. You’ll be introduced to various brewing methods and equipment, including manual and automatic gravity brewers, and learn how to develop a reproducible brew recipe.

You’ll explore the essential elements of brewing: coffee-to-water ratio, grind size, brew time, water temperature, turbulence, water quality, and filter media. By tasting different brews side by side, you’ll discover how changes in these variables affect extraction, concentration, and the flavor balance in the cup.

In addition, you’ll learn how to systematically describe a brewed cup of coffee and become familiar with concepts such as “balanced brew,” “optimal extraction,” and the SCA Brewing Control Chart. Proper cleaning and maintenance of brewing equipment are also key to consistent coffee quality.

Who is this training for?

The Brewing Foundation course is designed for coffee enthusiasts, baristas, and hospitality professionals who want to gain a solid understanding of the basics of pour-over coffee and extraction. No professional brewing experience is required. The course provides a solid foundation for those who want to learn how to brew more consistently and eventually move on to the Brewing Intermediate course.

What You'll Learn

After the training session

About the Instructor

Laurens DaCosta is an award-winning barista and SCA trainer with over sixteen years of experience. With his practical and inspiring approach, he helps both professionals and coffee enthusiasts take their coffee quality to the next level.

“Clear instruction and plenty of practice on my own. That worked perfectly for me.”

Lisa

“We wanted to expand our product line to include pour-over coffee. This training provided exactly the foundation we needed to get started with confidence.”

Bloom Coffee Bar

“I learned more than I had expected. Tasting the same coffee brewed using different methods was especially eye-opening.”

Patrick de Boer

“A very relaxed atmosphere and definitely not stuffy. You learn a lot without it feeling like school.”

Eva

“I found the exam pretty nerve-wracking, but since everything is built up gradually during training, it wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be.”

Niels

“A great introduction to the world of brewing. Now I finally understand why my filter coffee at home tasted different every time.”

Kim

“Lots of hands-on practice, clear explanations, and good coffee. That’s really all you need.”

Robin

Marijse Kalee

Education Advisor

⭐ 8.1

“A very informative SCA training course for anyone who wants to learn more about filter coffee, extraction, and brewing techniques. It features plenty of hands-on exercises, clear explanations, and personalized guidance, allowing you to immediately learn how to brew better and more consistent coffee.”
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Take the next step as a barista

Develop your knowledge and skills with the SCA Brewing Foundation training. After you submit the form, we will contact you within two business days to review your request.

Do you need help?

We are available Monday through Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Sign up for the SCA Brewing Foundation training

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