STI CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

Level I: Foundation Series
Foundations of Tea: Level One

As the first course in STI’s expanding education and certification program, Foundations of Tea: Level One will provide attendees with a strong understanding of the 5 basic tea types and the two traditional styles of orthodox tea production used to create them. Topics also include the essential components of teas, where and how teas are grown, the stages of processing and what differentiates the different types and classifications of tea. Attendees will have the opportunity to taste representative samples of each of the 5 tea types, discuss tea steeping methods and examine the basic characteristics of different teas.

Level II: Foundation Series
Foundations of Tea: Level Two

Building on the essential groundwork presented in Level One, Foundations of Tea: Level Two will examine CTC tea production and manufacture, as well as blending, flavoring and scenting, and introduction to sensory evaluation of teas. Also included is an introduction to the principles of grading and naming teas by country of origin. This seminar will allow attendees to examine and taste 5-6 pairs of teas as they are guided through the basics of a comparison cupping of the 5 tea types.

Level III: Professional Series

To complete Level Three in its entirety, you must complete all five classes listed below. You do not need to take them in any specific order, but all must be completed and passed to receive Certification for Level Three.

Please note: Upon completion of each class you will receive certification in that focused class (ex. Black Teas) to accredit your knowledge in that specified area of tea.

• Black Teas
• Oolong Teas
• Sensory Evaluation
• Green Teas
• White & Pu’erh Teas