Houghall Campus
Course Waiting List Update
Due to the current waiting list of applicants for the part time Foundation Level in Dog Grooming, we are currently unable to accept any new applications. We apologise for the delay if you were hoping to apply and enrol on this course.
Our Part Time Dog Grooming Courses
Dog Grooming is a highly popular career choice. With dog ownership always on the rise and growing opportunities in this sector, training as a dog groomer with a dog grooming course at East Durham College can help you start your own business or work as a professional dog groomer in a grooming parlour.
Taking place at East Durham College's Houghall campus, based in the heart of Durham, this course focuses on the principles and practices of modern dog grooming techniques, helping students build a potential career in the dog grooming industry.
Entry & Progression Explained
Our part-time foundation in dog grooming course is designed for beginners, whether you want to better care for your own dog or aspire to become a fully-qualified professional dog groomer.
All students MUST start by successfully completing the Level 1 Foundation Course in Dog Grooming. The Foundation Course introduces students to dog grooming equipment, important health and safety, preparation for grooming and bathing and hygiene trims.
The courses progression pathway:
- City & Guilds Level 1 Award in Land-based Studies (Foundation in Dog Grooming, 8 weeks programme)
- City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants (Progress from Foundation, No direct entry*, 20 weeks programme)
- City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming (Progress from Level 2, No direct entry, 1 year programme)
Once the foundation course has been completed, students then have the option to enrol on the Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants. *Only in exceptional circumstances would relevant industry experience be considered for entry onto the course, however, this is at the strict discretion of the course manager and will be dependent on a competency assessment.
Learners wishing to progress onto the Level 3 Diploma will have gained a Merit overall in the Level 2 qualification. There is strictly no direct entry onto this course.
Full Time Dog Grooming Courses
Full-time Dog Grooming Level 2, and subsequent progression to Level 3, is ONLY available as an internal progression option from our full-time Animal Care programme. If you are interested in this career path, please attend our next Open Evening event, where you can speak to staff about our animal care courses and how you could then progress onto the full-time dog grooming pathway.
Our Dog Grooming Facilities
The Houghall campus recently underwent a stunning, £12.75 million redevelopment and now includes a state-of-the-art dog grooming studio which is housed inside the Small Animal Care Centre.
This new studio is equipped with all of the facilities and equipment students need when dog grooming and is designed to replicate a professional dog grooming studio.
Inside you'll find adjustable-height tables for dogs of different sizes, and a bathing suite with several large-size dog bathing units for when those pooches need a pamper!
Check out the Houghall Dog Grooming Salon page.
Course Enquiries
For more details, or to book a place over the phone, please call the Short Courses team on 0191 375 4785.
Please note: All dog grooming students are required to bring their own dog models to practice on, the college does not supply them.
