Active test confirms the competence - A CLUB MEMBER IS A PROFESSIONAL
You can't just sign up for the F.B.S.K. You have to pass the active
test to get membership. The test equals with the Bartender II degree
vocational examinatio. In other hand, the membership itself is a proof
for the professionalism.
Finland
was the pioneer. Active test was first taken in use in Finland and from
here it spread to other I.B.A. countries. Today the test is in use in
most of the I.B.A. countries.
Those who decided back then really understood the neccessity of the
active test. Since 1975 passing the test has been the only way of
getting membership. Clubs own jacket - for members only - is worth
achieving. It tells everyone that a person with the jacket is a proofed
and educated professional.
Membership requires commitment and hard work. A person who has worked
at least two years in the branch signs up as an student member. As a
student he agrees to take the active test during the next two years.
Local F.B.S.K. member clubs educate their own members so you don't have
to be on your own.
Active test equals with the Bartender II degree vocational examinatio
and it's organized once in a year. The test has three parts each of
which has to be passed. From each parts you have to get a minimum of
50% of the total points and your final result has to be at least 60% of
the total maximum points.
Written test has questions around three different subject and it tests
the students knowledge very widely. One has to know over hundered
cocktail recipies for example. There can also be questions about the
alcohol law, cigars, special coffees and how to organize a bar.
The
part which tests the student in practice is the most exciting one.
Judges are watching at the bar making notes while the student is
swetting on the other side. In this practice test student makes
international classic drinks using different methods.
Standards of judgement are making the drinks properly, using equipments
and devices, correct recipies including decoration, result of drinks
and last but not least professional and overall appearance.
Third part is an interview that measures students behaviour in overall
and how he manages tough situations in finnish. Also his language
skills in Swedish and English are tested.
One
extra part is an assingment which has to be written beforehand. The
topic is given few weeks before the test. This assingment doesn't
affect the final points but has to be passed nevertheless.
Activetest itself is not a competition but as a tradition three best
have been awarded with education journeys that usually take place in
some other country than Finland. In other hand all tha activemembers
have earned their place with own work and can be proud of it.