WSET Special Accommodations / Reasonable AdjustmentsUpdated 5 months ago
WSET and Napa Valley Wine Academy are committed to fair assessment for all students, ensuring no one is disadvantaged or unfairly advantaged. Reasonable adjustments are modifications made to assist students with disabilities or difficulties that could put them at a significant disadvantage during assessments. These adjustments, sanctioned by WSET prior to the assessment, aim to provide equal access to qualifications without influencing the evaluation of a student’s work.
Adjustments must not compromise the assessment’s fairness or the accuracy and reliability of the outcomes, as outlined in the relevant Specification. Possible adjustments include:
- Modifying standard assessment conditions, like granting extra time;
- Altering assessment materials for accessibility, such as large text formats;
- Providing support like sign language interpreters or readers;
- Adapting the assessment environment to meet specific needs.
The Napa Valley Wine Academy is responsible for identifying any student’s special needs at enrollment that may require adjustments during exams. A Reasonable Adjustment Application Form must be submitted to WSET well in advance of the exam—six weeks for Levels 1-3 and ten weeks for the Level 4 Diploma, along with any supporting evidence.
The specifics of the exam arrangements or marking will be decided case by case in consultation with WSET, which may consult independent agencies for advice. Note that adjustments can only be implemented after WSET’s approval. All supporting documentation will be treated according to WSET’s privacy policy.
It’s important for students and their advisors to recognize that adjustments should not be requested for difficulties that directly impact the assessment’s key skills. Students approved for a reasonable adjustment who are unable to attend their exam must notify NVWA in writing at least 24 hours in advance by emailing [email protected]. Failure to do so will result in a late cancellation fee.