Welcome to the academy
North Star Academy is our hands-on coffee training platform for curious home brewers, coffee lovers and hospitality professionals alike. Through practical workshops, guided tastings and espresso and brewing courses, you can explore everything from flavour and technique to sourcing and the wider impact coffee has on the people behind it, helping you build confidence, deepen your understanding and engage with coffee in a more meaningful way.
SCA Accredited Coffee Courses
Globally Recognised Coffee Qualifications
North Star Coffee Academy now offers Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) accredited training courses for coffee professionals looking to develop internationally recognised skills and qualifications.
Delivered by an Authorised Specialty Coffee Association Trainer, our SCA courses combine in-depth theory, practical hands-on learning and formal assessment to provide structured professional coffee education aligned with global industry standards.
Each course includes both practical and written assessment in line with SCA certification standards.
These qualifications are ideal for:
Baristas looking to progress professionally, hospitality professionals, café managers and coffee shop owners, coffee industry newcomers, and experienced coffee professionals wanting formal accreditation
Our SCA courses are open to the public, with discounted pricing available for North Star wholesale customers.
Bee Southworth - Coffee Partnerships & Training Manager
Having first met Bee in her role at one of our wholesale customer spots, we have watched her career fly as she has quickly established a platform for herself, advocating for the power training can play in hospitality teams across the country. Now in charge of training strategy at North Star, she is creating an offer designed to build respect and value for coffee roles across our industry.
John Smethurst - Trainer
John became a part of our Coffee Shop team in 2020, however, it didn't take long before he joined the ranks of our roastery crew. Originally brought in 'on loan' for one week only, it quickly became apparent that he was a triple threat, steering his teaching abilities towards the wholesale team. John now facilitates training sessions at North Star and hosts beloved Home Barista Courses and other in-house events.
Tom Saunders - Trainer
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Our courses run at our Coffee Hub
The North Star Coffee Hub is a hands-on learning space designed for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of coffee, from complete beginners to home brewers and industry professionals.
Built around a full range of professional espresso machines, home brewing equipment, grinders and hand-brewing tools, the space gives you the opportunity to explore coffee in a practical, engaging way with guidance from our experienced team.
Through workshops, tastings and events, you'll learn everything from brewing techniques and espresso preparation to sensory tasting and ethical sourcing... all in one place.
Whether you're looking to improve your morning coffee routine or build professional coffee skills, the Coffee Hub is designed to help you learn, experiment and connect through coffee.
How to find us
Unit 32 The Blvd, Leeds LS10 1PZ
Courses FAQ
Is there parking?
We advise parking at CitiPark Leeds Dock located behind the Boulevard, simply due to the course's run time. From Level 2 upwards, there is elevator access and steps leading down to the Boulevard. There is free on street parking for 2 hours only.
When should I arrive?
If you're able to arrive 10 minutes earlier, this will allow us time to chat, have a brew and get settled in before the course begins.
Is there food and drink available?
The hub is attached to our coffee shop so you're more than welcome to grab something to eat beforehand or afterwards at our. If you do so, simply let a member of staff know that you're attending the course next door and they will guide you through to the Hub.
What do I need to bring with me?
There is nothing you need to bring ahead of the event apart from yourselves, however, you might find it useful to bring a notepad and pen!'