Program Overview

Bartending NC II is a technical-vocational program that develops the skills of students in the preparation and mixing of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Student are taught the basics/characteristics of different alcoholic beverages, appropriate tools and glassware to be used and how to serve drinks.

Students are trained in different preparation and presentation techniques and methods based on industry standards. Procedures in proper cleaning of bar area, bar operation and wine services are also included in the program.

Bartending NCII is regulated by TESDA (regulating body for vocational courses), and offered in TESDA-accredited education institutes.

Course Structure

The course structure for Bartending NC II is divided into four competencies:

• Basic Competencies (18 hours)
  • Participate in workplace communication
  • Work in a team environment
  • Practice career professionalism
  • Practice occupational health and safety procedure
• Common Competencies (18 hours)
  • Develop and update industry knowledge
  • Observe workplace hygiene procedures
  • Perform computer operations
  • Perform workplace and safety practices
  • Provide effective customer service
• Core Competencies (290 hours)
  • Cleaning bar areas
  • Operate bar
  • Preparing and mixing cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Providing basic wine services
• Electives(112 hours)
  • Prepare espresso
  • Texture milk
  • Prepare and serve coffee beverages

The lessons in the Bartending NC II program are taught to students through lectures and demonstrations, self-paced instruction and group discussions. Student learning assessment and evaluation is conducted at the end of every module discussion. This is done through direct observation, simulations, practical demonstrations and oral and written exams.

Technical-vocational programs follow a modular approach in classroom instruction which makes it easier for students to learn lessons. Modular Instruction is a type of teaching method that follows a specific set of planned learning activities and exercises. These activities are contained in a short booklet called a module. Students are allowed to proceed with their own learning pace (self-pacing). Instructors provide timely feedbacks allowing students to improve their skills.

Is Bartending a profession?

Bartending jobs are considered professional jobs because they require a specialized set of skills that can only be learned through time and practice. A specialization in bartending, combined with a certificate and/or professional experience, makes one a professional bartender.

Entry Requirements for Bartending NC II

The basic requirements for trainees of Bartending NC II as set by TESDA includes the following:

• Can communicate both in oral and written
• Good moral character
• Physically and mentally fit

Schools and training centers offering this program may have additional requirements.

What skills, traits and attitude will help you succeed in this course?

• Comfortable in serving other people
• Good hand-eye coordination
• Endurance – the ability to withstand tiresome work such as serving customers, standing up and walking from one area to another and being in an uncomfortable environment.
• Accuracy – while aesthetic is important, the taste of cocktails and other beverages is highly dependent on accurate mixture of ingredients; a student must be able to remember, prepare and mix the accurate amount of ingredients.
• Patience – you may encounter irritable and demanding clients therefore they must be patient enough to deal with different types of people
• Technical Skills – the knowledge and ability to learn, operate and control properly and safely an extensive range of equipment, tools and instruments such as refrigerators, blenders and other tools kitchen appliances.
• Being cautious – in the bar where there a lot of glassware and bottled beverages, thus you need to be careful at all times
• Creativity – creating and mixing different cocktails and beverages needs a lot of creativity; presenting it in an impressive way is also very important.
• Basic oral and written English skills – the use of English is important both to entertain foreign customers and for job related tasks.

How difficult is Bartending NC II?

Bartending NC II is considered not a difficult program. The topics taught in the program are easy to understand. The only challenging part of the program are the practicums because students will perform certain procedures, while being observed and graded by their instructor based on their performance.

How long does it take to complete the Bartending NC II program in the Philippines?

The recommended duration of Bartending Services NC II program according to TESDA regulations is 438 hours: 18 hours of Basic Competencies, 18 hours of Common Competencies, 290 hours of Core competencies and 112 hours of Electives.

On the Job Training (OJT)

TESDA-accredited institutions may integrate an On the Job Training (OJT) in the Bartending NCII curriculum. Students may be assigned in different food and beverage service facilities, such as bars, hotels, motels, restaurants, clubs, resorts, etc. The student will report to the designated authority in the agency who will supervise and guide his practice. The assigned authority will evaluate the student periodically and submit an evaluation form to the assigned TVET trainer.

The required number of hours for OJT varies from one institution to another.

Assessment and Certification

The Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) is the regulating body for all vocational courses in the Philippines and is in-charge of the assessment and certification of the competencies of technical-vocational workers through the Philippine TVET Qualification and Certification System (PTQCS). The assessment process aims to determine whether the graduate will be able to perform according to workplace standards based on a defined competency standard. Certification is given to those who meet the competency standards.

The Assessment and Certification process is not required among graduates of vocational courses. Graduate trainees have the option whether to undergo the process or not. However, a TESDA certification will give a graduate an advantage since local and foreign companies who hire skilled workers require this credential.

Graduates of Bartending NCII are advised to take and pass the Assessment and Certification Exam, National Certificate Level II (NC II).

The National Certificate is only valid for five years, which means that it has to be renewed /revalidated. The requirements and steps in applying for assessment and certification as well as the methods used for assessment are found in the TESDA website. For those who wish to elevate their qualification level may do so by undergoing the assessment and certification process for NC III and IV.

Career Opportunities for Bartending graduates

• Bar Utility – responsible for supporting bar operations, ensuring an adequate supply of alcohol and mixers, clean glasses, ice, and garnishes in all bar venues; and maintaining the cleanliness of all bar areas, glassware, and equipment
• Bartender – a person who serves alcoholic beverages; responsibilities include maintaining supplies and inventory for the bar and mixing a variety of cocktails
• Sommelier – a waiter who specializes in wine selection and serving.

Salary Levels

(source: jobstreet, 2017)

Bartender (1-4 Years Experience)

P 11K–16K