Recently, WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) held its first webinar in German, led by the renowned Master of Wine, Caro Maurer. One of the most frequently asked questions during the webinar was about the differences between WSET providers. Currently, there are 13 Approved Program Providers (APPs) in Germany. Each provider undergoes extensive training to meet WSET's international standards for teaching and organisation. However, the approaches and offerings of WSET schools can vary significantly, even though all aim to deliver high-quality WSET qualifications.
Here are the key points you should consider when choosing your WSET provider:
Course Structure and Duration
Sessions and Hours: How many sessions does the course include, and how many hours of instruction are offered in total? More sessions and class hours generally provide deeper learning and better preparation.
Minimum Number of Participants: Does the provider specify a minimum number of participants per course? Smaller groups often allow for more interaction and individual support, while larger groups may offer more diverse perspectives.
Wine Tastings
Quantity and Quality: How many wines will you taste during the course? Look for schools that offer representative and high-quality examples to ensure a comprehensive tasting experience. Checking the provider’s Instagram account or tagged posts can give you insights into the wines being tasted.
Instructor Expertise
Teaching Style: Who will be teaching the course? If possible, get feedback from former participants about the instructor. An engaging and passionate instructor can greatly enrich your learning experience, particularly in Levels 2 and 3. While qualifications are important, the ability to convey enthusiasm for wine is just as essential.
Learning Tools and Support
Mock Exams and Feedback: Does the provider offer mock exams and their corrections? This can be extremely helpful for understanding the exam format and improving your preparation.
Access to Quiz Questions: Are there interactive quizzes or other learning tools available to reinforce your knowledge? Such tools can make learning more engaging and effective.
Success Rates
Some schools may have higher success rates than others. It’s worth asking the provider about their participants’ success rates. Don’t hesitate to contact the provider with your questions.
Choosing a WSET School – Conclusion
When selecting a WSET school, consider the overall package, including the course structure, the number of wine tastings, the expertise of the instructors, the learning tools, and the success rates.
Keep in mind that all these factors can significantly influence the cost of the course. Evaluate each provider carefully to find the one that offers the best value for money and suits your learning needs.
At Grape Skills, as experienced WSET providers, we are happy to support you with our expertise and to assist you with any questions you may have.
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