Frequently Asked Questions

Q.  Which levels can I be recommended to teach?

A.  The Scheme recommends its tutors to teach Level 2 Intermediate Certificate, L2 Professional Spirits Certificate and Level 3 Advanced Certificate. In conjunction with these you are entitled to free 'training' for the Level 1 Foundation certificate programme (L1 is not covered under the Recommended Tutor Scheme), but will need to pay extra for teaching materials.

Q.  Who can apply?

A.  Applicants must have up-to-date wine and spirit product knowledge and have recent experience in the delivery of WSET qualifications, with comprehensive understanding of the WSET Systematic Approach to Tasting.

Holding at least 3 Units of the WSET Level 4 Diploma is mandatory for application to the Scheme.  Tutors applying for Recommendation to Advanced Certificate level should hold the WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines and Spirits.  It is also mandatory that all tutors applying to Advanced attend a L3 Assessor Workshop, which gives approval to assess the tasting unit of the examination paper.

As well as holding a WSET qualification it is preferable that Tutors possess a formal qualification in vocational training/Adult Education, eg PGCE or alternatively, competence may be demonstrated by means of a portfolio of relevant teaching experience, supported by
reference(s). 

A.  A three-day seminar, which following a brief overview of the WSET, will give the tutor a three-hour session on developing teaching and learner skills.  On the thrid day we will ask you to make a short presentation based on what was learnt the first day, this serves a dual purpose of; the WSET observing and giving feedback to the tutor; and giving other tutors the opportunity to observe their peers.  There will also be sessions on WSET Qualification Structure, including Systematic Approach to Tasting, a presentation of Foundation, Intermediate, Professional Spirits and Advanced sessions, and the opportunity to sit the L3 Assessor training and examination.  These training days will be held throughout the year at the WSET's central London premises. Every new applicant to the Tutor Programme must attend a 3 day workshop

Q.  How much does it cost?

Q.  How can I apply?

A.  Simply download the Handbook November 2007 (318KB). Read all the terms and conditions of the scheme and complete the application form at the back of the handbook, return this with payment to Ngarita Warden at WSET 39-45 Bermondsey Street, London, SE1 3XF

Q.  What are the benefits
- Free Assessor training for Advanced Certificate Level 3
- Free information updates
- Updated Study Pack materials, as and when produced for level of Recommendation
- Free Tutor CD
- Opportunity to attend seminars arranged specifically for Tutors
- Opportunity to attend Study Tours to wine regions as guest of generic bodies
- Advertising contact details on our website
- Free listing in Operation Handbook which is issued to all Approved Programme Providers
- 10% off many course materials to level of Recommendation.