Independent business develops National Dog Grooming Qualification

BIGA members Four Paws Groom School in Northwich, Cheshire has worked alongside Open College Network West Midlands to develop The Open College Network West Midlands Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming.  This new qualification is regulated by Ofqual and is recognised in the UK’s national education system at level 3 (A Level Equivalent).

After starting the business 8 years ago, Fern Gresty Director says “pets are more popular than ever and the public want to be assured that their companions are being cared for by trained, qualified professionals and they are going to leave a grooming salon happy, and looking great! I launched the Groom School after failing to employ a dog groomer who matched my expectations.  Working with other professionals, we went on to design a course that ensured we delivered dog grooming training to the highest standard.”

Sarah Mackay (Regional Grooming Manager) joined Four Paws in 2015 and focused on quality assurance, to developing the existing course alongside Open College Network West Midlands into a qualification that is regulated by Ofqual (who oversee all qualifications in the UK). Sarah’s great success has led to her becoming a Business Partner and Director at Four Paws Groom School. Together, Fern and Sarah hope to inspire students into following their dreams to work with animals whilst raising industry standards.

Sarah says “before this there was only one other UK qualification relating to dog grooming which requires students to complete exams and a level 2 qualification first. We wanted to be mindful of the cost to students and so our course does not require a pre-entry qualification and may appeal to more adult learners who have been out of education for some time.”  

Four Paws Groom School deliver the course training over 25 days with additional time allowed for students to research and learn from others in the industry.  The dates are flexible and enable students to learn around their other commitments. The Open College Network West Midlands Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming is assessed through coursework and ongoing appraisal from your tutor meaning no scary exams! This comprehensive, holistic approach has been welcomed by Four Paws students and is receiving great reviews.  A fast-track option is also available for experienced groomers seeking a formal qualification to confirm their skill level.

To find out more about us visit www.fourpawsgroomschool.co.uk or http://www.opencollnet.org.uk/qualifications/all-qualifications/dog-grooming.

Four Paws Groom School

Suite 1, The Rushes, Norley Road, Cuddington, Northwich, Cheshire, CW8 2TB

 Tel: 01606 889022