The perfect blend: Lincoln College supports community barista training

Lincoln College has partnered with Stokes in Lincoln to run a course for adults to develop their barista and customer service skills to help with employability in the city.

The first cohort of ten learners were referred to the College via the Jobcentre and have now completed a Level 1 employability qualification plus Level 2 awards in both food safety and health and safety. They’ve also completed a Level 2 in Barista Skills where they trained at Stokes’ coffee shop and café based at The Lawns in Lincoln – with Stokes going on to employ two students from the course.

Head of Community and Commercial at Lincoln College Sean Knight said: “This course provides accredited practical training in barista and customer service skills that supports individual career goals and growth in the visitor economy.

“Congratulations to all the learners who completed the course and we look forward to following their journey into hospitality.”

Business Growth and Marketing Manager at Stokes Samantha Pover said: “Congratulations to all the learners that took part on the course. Working alongside Lincoln College and the DWP has proved to be a great partnership and we’re looking forward to building on the success of our first intake.

“Stokes knows that upskilling young people with an accredited qualification in Barista and Customer Service helps candidates become more attractive to employers. This along with boosting their confidence helps support the whole visitor economy. Industry experts predict that an additional 40,000 baristas will be needed by the year 2023 so we’re going to be very busy!”

Interested in finding out more or maybe forming a partnership with us? Email communityeducationcentre@lincolncollege.ac.uk for more information.

Head of Community and Commercial at Lincoln College Sean Knight said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Stokes Coffee and DWP to create opportunities that help individuals gain skills and experience in hospitality.