Bartending School? Is is worth it?

I'm a new bartender at a pub. There really isnt anyone there that knows their stuff, and i want to learn it right. A 50 hour bartending class is only $360, but from what I've heard about bartending schools in general is that its a waste. Has any one taken one like this, and was it worth it. I'd like to think of this as an investment. Plus, I think I would enjoy the learning experience anyways.Bartending School? Is is worth it?
i paid 595. its 2 weeks long and im half way through. so far, it was worth it to me because i had absolutely no background, i didn't know about mixing methods, about the counts, about the several types of drinks and glasses that go with it, the garnishes, etc.i think it's worth it because they teach you the basics and they can teach you how to be professional. once im through, they will help w/ job placement, so i'll see how it goes. so far i've learned about 40 drinks out of the 55. i dont have them down cause i forget stuff here and there (i forget the ounces of certain alcohol/cordials sometimes). they teach you how to upsell so you can make more money in tips as well as the company.Bartending School? Is is worth it?
Bartending school is definitely worth your time if you have little to no experience in the industry. There are places that require experience and for you to work your way through the ranks, from barback or busser to bartender. So the end result is the same, however with a bartending school certificate you may have to only spend a small amount of time in such a position before they move you up.



I would recommend for you to start applying at smaller places and see what their requirements are. You could end up saving yourself the $360. Check out free online resources first and see if they can offer the education you need. http://www.bartendermixed.com/ is a great one. There are tons of others out there too, but usually they require a sign-up fee.Bartending School? Is is worth it?
Bartending schools are a waster of money. If you are that serious, take the initiative and go in when your not scheduled and learn more tricks. You can also learn online.



Practise at home and make sure you know the basics. For instance, the most popular drink recipes, how to pour, cut fruit and open wine, etc... Try to host a few parties where you can 'play' bartender, or learn a few more bar tricks and skills from watching other bartenders. If you're all ready working at a nice establishment as a server, ask if you can come in on some slow shift and practise with the bartender. Or just go in on your own when their service is slow and ask questions. It will show your interest and initiative to learn and work hard.



Here's what I would do...



Ask your manager if you can come in and train on the bar on your own time. At the same time, start studying and practising bartending at home. You can learn all you need to know about bartending basics for free online at http://www.bars-and-bartending.com/all-b鈥?/a>





Good luck on your bartending career!Bartending School? Is is worth it?
your pub should be able to train you but if you want to go for a laugh then do it. personally i wouldn't you pick everything up quite quickly if you work there a lot.