Introduction

Southside Bartending, in its capacity as Approved Programme Provider (APP) for WSET®, will identify, report, monitor and manage all conflicts of interest that may have an adverse effect on the programmes and qualifications offered by WSET®.

We will take all reasonable measures to prevent and/or mitigate such adverse effect where it exists.

This is essential to safeguard the integrity of Southside Bartending and WSET® qualifications, thereby promoting confidence in the training and certificate award processes.

This policy applies to all Southside Bartending staff and to any individual acting on its behalf.

Definition of Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest exists when an individual has interests or loyalties that may negatively influence his judgement, objectivity or loyalty to Southside Bartending.

Examples of Conflicts of Interest in the context of an organisation include

• The performance of any student assessment by an individual who has a personal interest in the outcome of the assessment for any or all of the individuals involved;
• The training of students by an individual involved in the evaluation process;
• The investigation of an incident of non-compliance by someone who cannot act impartially.

Some conflicts of interest cannot be managed and are not acceptable. For example, it would be inappropriate for an individual involved in the preparation of exam questions or the compilation of exam documents to teach or guide students.

Please note that no Southside Bartending employee has access to the questions in the exams before the time and date of the exam, including the trainer.

All examinations are ordered by WSET in London and stored in a sealed envelope in a closed storage room until taken to the examination room.

Conflict of Interest Management

In case of conflict of interest, Southside Bartending is obliged to inform WSET and follow WSET’s recommendation on how to mitigate the newly created situation.

If someone feels that a Conflict of Interest has occurred, they should write to [email protected] at any time with the details listed below. The student will receive a reply within 3 working days of receiving the complaint. However, WSET is responsible for final decisions on any potential or actual conflicts of interest and this final resolution will take a little longer. Please be aware that we take all concerns about Conflicts of Interest extremely seriously.

• Name, address and contact information
• Full details of the complaint (with any supporting documents)

Please note that all concerns have guaranteed confidentiality.