Preparation for the Exam and the Role of the Sponsor
Ideally training for candidates taking the CMC exam should be supported by their company sponsor to ensure that they have a structured training plan that adequately prepares them for the format of the examination questions and the level that they are set at.
Having the opportunity to gain work experience in all of the areas covered in the twelve sections of syllabus would be ideal but that may not be possible for all candidates due to the type of processing facility at which they are normally located. Where possible, it is recommended that candidates take the opportunity to visit, or at least learn about other malting facilities, particularly if those plants have additional or different processing equipment which might include:- barley drying and storage; steeping; germination; kilning; speciality malt production; effluent treatment; and a laboratory.
To further assist with training needs MAGB will provide links to some resources which candidates should find useful such as presentations and papers. Often, these will have been presented at malting symposia and some will inevitably contain more in-depth information than would be necessary for the CMC exam. Your sponsor should provide assistance with this as part of your structured training plan.
Also to assist you, below are 5 example questions to show you the format of the exam questions and to give you a feel for what to expect in the exam.
