The Bettr Holistic Training Programme adopts a whole-person approach towards development and well-being, supporting and empowering all participants to become better versions of themselves whilst pursuing a career in specialty coffee.
Intake #23 commences 22 April 2019. Application deadline: 31 March 2019.
With thanks to Ellie Wen and Greg Katz for this video, originally on SoulPancake.
Holistic Training Programme (4 Months)
For: Women aged 17-50 and youth-at-risk
We work with marginalised women and at-risk youth (including young men), imparting professional and emotional management skills to navigate through challenges, realise their potential and pave the way for long-term careers in specialty coffee.
Making a good cup of coffee is more than just pressing a button. It takes skill, lots of practice for consistency and a little flair. Students in our Programme learn the art and science of making that perfect cup, in a nurturing environment that encourages interaction and mutual exchange with people from all walks of life, and supports their ongoing development and growth.
We go beyond work skills, adopting a whole-person approach that combines professional coffee education with life and emotional management skills, and physical training:
Mental: Professional barista education, paid internship at our partnering specialty cafes, as well as opportunities for international certifications through continued education at Bettr Barista Coffee Academy.
Emotional: Emotional empowerment and coping/life management skills to help with conflict management, confidence building and resilience.
Physical: Multi-dimension physical training including self-defence, yoga, outrigger canoeing and rock climbing to encourage socialisation, teamwork and foster camaraderie.
Programme Fee & Opportunities
Holistic Training Programme FEE: S$3,500*
*Note: Bettr Barista provides subsidies of up to 92% to qualifying Programme participants, based on case-by-case assessment of financial need.
Participants can earn up to S$3,200 over the course of the Programme, either with Bettr Barista or our specialty cafe partners, while gaining valuable on-the-job experience.
Programme graduates receive support in finding employment upon graduating, either with the Bettr Group, our partner organisations, or by running your own startup.
Graduates have access to our alumni group, which continues to support them with mentorship and industry exposure, via Bettr Barista's community events.
Attend a free coffee chat information session
Receive the most up-to-date Programme information, including new initiatives, and have all your questions answered in detail
Experience a tour of our Academy and learning environment
Enjoy a cup of specialty coffee at our Tasting Bar, artfully brewed by Bettr Baristas
Meet and interact directly with our Social Programmes Manager and team
It's free and open to all counsellors/social workers, your clients and their families
How to apply - By Referral Only
Social service organisation representatives (and your clients) are encouraged to attend one of our free informational coffee chat sessions, which we hold throughout the year. This is where we share in-depth and up-to-date details about the Programme and application process.
Interested individuals must get a referral from a social service organisation, counsellor or social worker.
Complete our application form and attend 1 to 2 rounds of interviews (for shortlisted candidates).
Intake #23 commences 22 April 2019. Application deadline: 31 March 2019.
With thanks to Catalyst Asia for this documentary.
I’ve gone from being dependent on people to being more self-reliant and confident. Bettr Barista has exposed me to a whole new world of possibilities and equipped me with the skills I need to become an all-round more capable individual. I hope to pay this forward and help others out there who are just like me.

What you take away from Bettr Barista’s programme is truly priceless. I’m more responsible, mature and confident in what I do and the changes I continue to see in myself surprise me more than anyone else!