Dog Grooming Courses in Kent (Folkestone Guide) [2025]

Thinking about turning your love of dogs into a proper career? You're in luck. Kent offers some brilliant dog grooming courses that can get you qualified and earning within months, not years. ^{[2] [3] [4]}

Here's what you need to know: Level 3 Diploma courses (the gold standard for professional groomers) cost between £3,800-£5,100 and include everything from basic bathing to advanced scissoring techniques. Plus, you'll learn the business side too — because knowing how to groom is only half the battle.

The best part? You don't need any previous experience. Just a genuine love of dogs and the willingness to learn a skill that's always in demand.

Kent Dog Grooming Course Providers (2025 Comparison)

Quick comparison of the top dog grooming course providers across Kent: ^{[1] [2] [3] [4]}

• Closest to Folkestone: Get Grooming (Faversham) - 30 minutes drive
• Best for flexibility: Kent Dog Grooming Academy offers evening and weekend options
• Fastest qualification: Get Grooming's intensive courses (20-35 days)
• Most established: Plumpton College (part of larger agricultural college)

Important: Prices shown are 2025 estimates. Contact providers directly for current fees and available start dates. Most offer payment plans and some accept apprenticeship funding.

Why Folkestone is Actually Perfect for Dog Groomers

Let's be honest — you don't need to move to London to build a successful grooming business. In fact, Folkestone might just be the sweet spot you've been looking for.

Picture this: You're running your own salon where clients actually know your name, where you can walk to the seafront on your lunch break, and where word-of-mouth recommendations travel fast in the best possible way. Kent's reputation as the Garden of England ^{[4] [5]} isn't just pretty marketing — it reflects a genuine love of the outdoors and, crucially, the pets that come with that lifestyle.

Want to see what professional grooming looks like locally? Check out our Folkestone dog grooming services to see the standards you'll be learning to meet. For inspiration on what successful local groomers are doing, browse our guide to the best dog groomers in Folkestone. And if you want the full picture of what services you could offer, our complete dog grooming services guide covers everything.

The Folkestone Advantage

Folkestone isn't just surviving — it's thriving. The town's creative quarter is attracting new residents who value quality services ^{[6] [7]}, and these are exactly the kind of pet owners who'll appreciate (and pay for) professional grooming.

Here's what makes it special:

• Community matters — Your reputation travels fast, but so does excellent service
• Less competition — You're not fighting 50 other groomers for the same clients
• Better lifestyle — Coastal walks, reasonable rent, actual work-life balance
• Great connections — You're still close enough to London for training and supplies, but without the stress

The bottom line? You can build a proper business here while actually enjoying where you live. That's not something you can say about everywhere.

Why the Numbers Work in Your Favour

Here's something interesting: While overall pet ownership dipped slightly from 62% to 57% of UK households between 2022-2023 ^{[1] [2]}, the demand for professional grooming hasn't followed suit. Why? Because the people who are keeping their dogs are the ones who really value them — and they're willing to pay for quality care.

The Folkestone factor: About 34% of UK households own dogs ^[3], but in coastal towns like ours, that number tends to be higher. Retirees, families with gardens, and the growing creative community all tend to be dog people.

Plus, there's a bonus most people don't think about: Folkestone's position near the Channel Tunnel ^[8] means we get international visitors travelling with their pets ^[9]. Ever heard of pre-travel grooming? It's a thing, and it pays well.

The bottom line: Even with slightly fewer pets overall, the ones that remain are increasingly pampered. That's good news for anyone thinking about a grooming career.

How to Actually Get Qualified (The Real Steps)

Here's something that might surprise you: Technically, anyone can call themselves a dog groomer in the UK. There's no law stopping you ^{[1] [2]}. But here's the thing — would you trust someone with your beloved dog if they had no proper training?

Neither would your future clients. That's why professional organizations like the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) and British Dog Groomers' Association (BDGA) are pushing for proper qualifications ^[3]. It's not just about ticking boxes — it's about proving you know what you're doing.

Your Qualification Journey (Made Simple)

Step 1: Level 2 Certificate — Think of this as your learner's permit. You'll learn the basics: how to handle dogs safely, proper bathing and drying techniques, and basic clipping. Perfect if you want to work as an assistant while you build confidence.

Step 2: Level 3 Diploma — This is where you become a proper groomer ^[3]. Advanced scissoring, breed-specific styling, hand-stripping — all the skills you need to run your own business and charge professional rates.

Step 3: Canine First Aid — Not technically required, but absolutely essential in a place like Folkestone where everyone knows everyone. This certificate tells clients you take their pet's safety seriously.

Bonus points: Consider specialized training in anxious pet care techniques. Nervous dogs are everywhere, and being the groomer who can handle them calmly will set you apart. For inspiration on what professional standards look like, check out our guide to Folkestone's top-rated dog groomers.

What Each Level Actually Means

Level 2 Certificate (7863-02) — 16 days over 8 weeks ^[1]. You'll learn:

• How to handle dogs without getting bitten (surprisingly important!)
• Proper bathing and drying techniques
• Basic clipping and trimming
• Different breed temperaments and what to expect

Perfect for: People who want to work as an assistant while building confidence, or those testing the waters before committing to the full qualification.

Level 3 Diploma (7863-03) — Either one day a week for 39 weeks, or two days a week for 20 weeks ^[2]. This covers:

• Advanced styling and finishing techniques
• Health checking and proper handling
• Customer service (because difficult humans are often harder than difficult dogs)
• Record keeping and business basics

Perfect for: Anyone serious about running their own business or working independently.

Understanding City & Guilds Dog Grooming Qualifications

City & Guilds is the gold standard for dog grooming qualifications in the UK ^[1]. These aren't weekend courses or online certificates — they're proper, regulated qualifications that employers and insurance companies actually recognise.

Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants (7863-02)

Entry Requirements:

• Must be 16 years or older ^[1]
• Level 2 English and Maths (some providers require this) ^[2]
• No previous dog grooming experience needed
• Dedication and enthusiasm for working with animals

What You'll Learn (182 Guided Learning Hours): ^[1]

• Preparing and grooming dogs prior to bathing
• Proper bathing techniques and product selection
• Drying dogs and preparing for styling
• Basic trimming and coat preparation
• Safe moving and lifting of dogs
• Maintaining cleanliness and biosecurity
• Professional conduct and customer interaction
• Dog anatomy, breed characteristics, and behaviour

Assessment: Theory exam plus practical synoptic assignments covering real grooming scenarios ^[1]

Career Outcomes: Qualified to work as a Dog Grooming Assistant in salons or mobile units. This is the mandatory prerequisite for Level 3 ^[1].

Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming (7863-03)

Entry Requirements:

• Must have completed Level 2 Certificate (7763-02 or 7863-02) ^[3]
• Must be 19 years or older for most providers ^[3]
• Strongly advised to have placement or job in grooming industry ^[3]
• First Aid training (often included or required separately)

What You'll Learn (200 Guided Learning Hours): ^[1]

• Health and safety legislation and codes of practice
• Advanced preparing, styling, and finishing techniques
• Hand stripping, scissoring, clipping, and blending ^[4]
• Professional health checking and handling
• Customer service and record keeping
• Business fundamentals for self-employment

Assessment: Written exam covering knowledge and understanding, plus practical assignments demonstrating grooming skills on different coat types ^[1]

Career Outcomes: Qualified Professional Dog Groomer. You can work independently, run your own business, or progress to Level 4 Master Groomer status ^[5].

Why City & Guilds Matters

Insurance Recognition: Most professional indemnity insurers require City & Guilds Level 3 or equivalent before they'll cover you ^[6]

Client Confidence: Pet owners recognise the qualification — it's been the industry standard since the 1980s

Career Progression: Clear pathway from assistant (Level 2) to professional (Level 3) to master groomer (Level 4)

Employer Recognition: Salons and mobile grooming businesses know exactly what these qualifications mean

Beyond the Basics: Specialized Training That Pays

Creative Grooming — Folkestone's artistic community loves this stuff. Get Grooming in Faversham offers one-day workshops in Asian fusion grooming, creative styling, and even safe pet coloring ^[1]. Think temporary colors, nail art, and special occasion styling. It sounds niche, but these services can command premium prices.

Want to see what tools you'll need? Check out our comprehensive guide on essential grooming tools for beginner pet owners. For specific equipment recommendations, see our reviews of professional grooming tables and dog hair dryers. You can also observe professional techniques at our local dog grooming services.

Canine Massage and Aromatherapy — This is where things get interesting. The Clinical Canine Massage Practitioner Programme is a serious 2-year commitment (800 hours total) covering everything from Swedish massage to myofascial release ^[2]. It's a big investment, but health-conscious pet owners will pay well for these services. For product knowledge, explore our guide to organic dog grooming products.

Finding the Right Course for Your Life

Here's the good news: Kent isn't London. You're not stuck with one massive academy that does things one way. The training here is more flexible and, honestly, more personal.

Your Options (Choose Your Own Adventure)

Option 1: Full-Time Intensive — Want to get qualified fast? Dedicated training centres across Kent offer intensive courses that'll get you your Level 3 Diploma in a few months. You'll be immersed in grooming every day, which means you'll learn quickly but need to be able to commit full-time.

Option 2: In-Salon Training — This is where you learn from a working groomer in their actual salon. It's less formal but incredibly valuable because you see the real day-to-day stuff: difficult clients, challenging dogs, how to manage your time when you're fully booked. It's like an apprenticeship, and many successful groomers learned this way.

Option 3: Part-Time Flexible — Got a job or kids? No problem. Local colleges and some private providers offer courses where you attend just one or two days a week. It takes longer, but you can keep your life together while you retrain.

Course Type Comparison

Course Type	Duration	Cost Range	Best For	Advantages	Considerations
Intensive Full-Time	8-12 weeks	£3,500-£5,000	Career changers, quick qualification	Fast completion, immersive learning	Requires full-time commitment
In-Salon Training	6-12 months	£2,500-£4,000	Hands-on learners	Real-world experience, mentorship	Limited formal structure
Part-Time College	6-9 months	£2,500-£3,500	Working professionals, parents	Flexible scheduling, structured learning	Longer completion time
Weekend Intensive	3-6 months	£3,000-£4,500	Those with weekday commitments	Maintains work schedule	Intensive weekend sessions

What It Actually Costs (And Why It's Worth It)

Let's talk money. Training outside London has one massive advantage — your money goes further. But understanding the real cost differences between qualification levels helps you make the right investment for your career goals.

Level 2 vs Level 3: The Real Cost Comparison

Level 2 Certificate (7863-02) — £1,800-£3,200 across Kent ^{[1] [2]}

• Duration: 16 days over 8 weeks (part-time)
• What you learn: Basic handling, bathing, drying, simple clipping
• Career outcome: Grooming assistant role (£18,000-£22,000 annually)
• Best for: Testing the waters or working while you train for Level 3

Level 3 Diploma (7863-03) — £3,800-£5,100 across Kent ^{[3] [4]}

• Duration: 39 weeks (1 day/week) or 20 weeks (2 days/week)
• What you learn: Advanced styling, breed-specific cuts, business skills, health checking
• Career outcome: Qualified groomer (£25,000-£40,000+ annually)
• Best for: Serious career change or starting your own business

The Real Price Breakdown (Kent 2025)

Budget-Friendly Options (£3,800-£4,200):

• Plumpton College — Established agricultural college, excellent facilities
• Get Grooming (Faversham) — Fast-track intensive options, closest to Folkestone
• Kent Dog Grooming Academy — Flexible scheduling, small class sizes

Premium Training (£4,500-£5,100):

• Specialized academies with extended practical hours
• Includes professional toolkit (worth £300-£500)
• Smaller class sizes (4-6 students vs 8-12)
• Extended business training and marketing support

What You're Actually Paying For

Don't just look at the price tag. Here's what affects the cost:

• Qualification body — City & Guilds ^[5] vs iPET Network ^[6] (both are respected)
• Practical hours — More time with actual dogs = better value (look for 60+ hours minimum)
• Equipment included — Some courses give you a complete professional toolkit to keep
• Class sizes — Smaller groups mean more individual attention
• Location and facilities — Purpose-built training salons vs shared spaces

Finance Options That Actually Work

Payment Plans Available:

• Monthly installments — Most providers offer 6-12 month payment plans
• 0% interest options — Available at Plumpton College and some private academies
• Deposit schemes — Secure your place with £200-£500 deposit

Funding Support:

• Career Development Loans — Government-backed loans up to £10,000 ^[7]
• Adult Education Budget — May cover Level 2 courses if you're 19+ without Level 2 qualifications
• Employer sponsorship — Some pet shops and grooming salons sponsor training

Money-Saving Tips:

• Book early — Many providers offer £200-£300 early bird discounts
• Group bookings — Some academies offer discounts for 2+ people booking together
• Seasonal offers — January and September often have promotional rates

The bottom line: A higher price often means more one-on-one time and more dogs to practice on. That's invaluable when you're building confidence, but don't overpay for fancy facilities if the practical training hours are the same. To understand what professional grooming services charge locally, check our comprehensive UK grooming prices guide.

What You Actually Get for Your Money

A good course should set you up for success from day one. Here's what any decent Level 3 programme should include:

The Essentials

• Real dogs, real experience — Hands-on training with different breeds and coat types (this is where you actually learn)
• The theory that matters — Dog anatomy, skin conditions, breed-specific requirements (not just fluff)
• Professional kit — Many courses include or provide professional-grade tools (check what you get to keep)
• Business basics — How to price your services, handle customers, and market yourself
• Safety first — Proper handling techniques and workplace safety (essential for insurance)
• Proper assessment — Ongoing evaluation leading to your recognized qualification

The Extras That Make a Difference

Look for courses that offer:
• Post-graduation support — Help finding your first job or setting up your business
• Job placement assistance — Some providers maintain job boards or have industry connections
• Alumni networks — Ongoing support from fellow graduates

Red flag: If a course doesn't include hands-on experience with real dogs, walk away. You can't learn grooming from a textbook.

Finding the Right Course Near You

Here's the reality: Folkestone doesn't have its own dedicated dog grooming academy (yet), but you're perfectly positioned to access excellent training across Kent and the South East.

Your Local Options

Canterbury College and East Kent College sometimes run animal care programmes with grooming modules. These might not give you the full Level 3 qualification you need, but they're worth checking for foundation courses or taster sessions.

Pro tip: Ring them directly — course offerings change, and you might catch something perfect that's just starting.

The Slightly-Further-But-Worth-It Options

For proper Level 3 qualifications, you'll likely need to travel a bit:

• Hadlow College — Established their first dog grooming school in partnership with the Pet Industry Federation (PIF) in 2015, offering City & Guilds qualifications ^[1]
• Kent Dog Grooming Academy in Maidstone — Flexible City & Guilds Level 2 and Level 3 courses, with options to study one to five days per week ^[2]
• Independent trainers — Often offer mobile or small-group training (sometimes the best value)

Don't Forget In-Salon Training

Here's something many people overlook: Some of the best groomers learned through apprenticeships. Research established salons in Folkestone, Hythe, Dover, and surrounding villages. A skilled local groomer might offer intensive, one-on-one training that provides invaluable real-world experience.

Why Your Location Actually Works

Being in Folkestone is actually brilliant for this. You can easily reach training across Kent and the South East, but you'll come back to a market that's not oversaturated with groomers. Plus, your living costs are lower, so you can invest more in quality training.

The commute might seem like a pain, but think of it as an investment in your future business.

Dog Grooming Courses in Maidstone (35 Minutes from Folkestone)

Maidstone offers some of the most flexible dog grooming training options in Kent. ^[1] If you're looking for courses that fit around your existing commitments, this is your best bet.

Kent Dog Grooming Academy Ltd

Location: Maidstone (35-minute drive from Folkestone) Speciality: Flexible scheduling and small class sizes Qualifications: City & Guilds Level 2 and OCN Level 3 Diploma (equivalent to City & Guilds Level 3)

What makes them different:

• Study 1-5 days per week — design your own schedule
• Small groups — maximum 6 students per class
• Experienced instructors — all qualified to Level 4
• Real salon environment — purpose-built training facility

Course Options:

• Level 2 Certificate: £2,200-£2,600 (16 days over 8-16 weeks)
• OCN Level 3 Diploma: £3,900-£4,300 (39 weeks flexible)
• Pet Owner Day Courses: £150-£200 (perfect for testing interest)

Best for: People with irregular schedules, parents, or those wanting to keep their day job while training.

Private & Intensive Dog Grooming Courses

Want to fast-track your qualification? Intensive courses can get you qualified in weeks rather than months, but they require serious commitment.

Get Grooming (Faversham) — Intensive Specialists

Location: Faversham (30 minutes from Folkestone) Speciality: Fast-track intensive training Qualifications: Skills & Education Group Level 3 Diploma

Intensive Options:

• Platinum Course (35 days): £3,800-£4,200 — Full Level 3 Diploma
• Gold Course (20 days): £2,800-£3,200 — Level 3 Certificate
• Silver Course (5 days): £1,800-£2,200 — Level 2 Introduction

Perfect for:

• Career changers who want to get qualified quickly
• Experienced pet owners ready for intensive learning
• People with time off work (sabbatical, redundancy, etc.)

One-on-One Private Training

Several Kent providers offer private tuition:

• Animal Magic Dog Grooming — Holds City & Guilds Levels 3 & 4 qualifications
• Independent master groomers — Often the best value for personalized training
• In-salon apprenticeships — Learn while earning in established businesses

Typical costs: £80-£120 per day for private tuition Duration: 15-25 days for Level 3 equivalent Best for: Nervous learners, those with specific learning needs, or people wanting to specialize immediately

Finding Dog Grooming Courses "Near Me" (Kent & South East)

Living in Folkestone gives you access to excellent training across Kent and the South East. Here's your complete guide to what's within reasonable traveling distance.

Within 30-45 Minutes of Folkestone

Closest Options:

• Get Grooming (Faversham) — 30 minutes, intensive courses
• Kent Dog Grooming Academy (Maidstone) — 35 minutes, flexible scheduling
• Hadlow College — 40 minutes, established agricultural college

Within 1 Hour (Worth the Journey)

Premium Training:

• Plumpton College — 45 minutes, excellent facilities and reputation
• One Garden Brighton — 1 hour, weekend options available
• Canterbury College — 45 minutes, part-time evening courses

Travel Tips for Kent Course Hunters

Making the commute work:

• Car sharing — Many students organize lifts (check course Facebook groups)
• Public transport — Southeastern trains connect most Kent towns
• Accommodation — Some students stay overnight for intensive courses

Budget for travel:

• Petrol costs — £8-£15 per day depending on distance
• Parking — £2-£5 per day at most colleges
• Train fares — £10-£20 return for most Kent destinations

Pro tip: Factor travel costs into your course comparison. A slightly more expensive course closer to home often works out cheaper overall.

How to Choose (Without Making a Costly Mistake)

With several options across Kent, here's how to pick the right course without second-guessing yourself later.

Match Your Life, Not Your Dreams

Be honest about your schedule. Working full-time? Have kids? Look for:

• Weekend courses — Perfect for keeping your day job
• Evening classes — Less common but they exist
• Intensive blocks — Get it done faster, but you'll need time off work

The Practical Experience Test

This is crucial: How much time will you spend with actual dogs? Some courses offer 20 hours of hands-on experience, others offer 100+. More dogs = more confidence = better groomer.

Ask these questions:

• How many different dogs will I work on?
• What's the student-to-tutor ratio?
• Do I get to practice the same techniques multiple times?

Qualification Reality Check

Make sure you're getting a proper qualification. Look for:

• City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma (7863-03) — The gold standard
• iPET Network Level 3 — Also well-respected
• Avoid — Certificates that aren't recognized by employers

The Hidden Costs

Budget for everything:

• Course fees (obviously)
• Travel costs (can add up quickly)
• Accommodation if needed
• Equipment not included in the course
• Time off work (lost income)

Pro tip: A slightly more expensive course closer to home might actually cost less overall.

Your Burning Questions Answered

"How long will this actually take?" Level 2 (Assistant level): 16 days over 8 weeks ^[1] — good for getting started Level 3 (Professional level): One day per week for 39 weeks, or two days per week for 20 weeks ^[2] — this is what you want for your own business In-salon apprenticeships: Take longer but you earn while you learn

"I've never worked with animals professionally — is that a problem?"

Not at all. Level 2 courses assume you're starting from scratch. Having your own dog helps, but volunteering at local rescues or dog walking can boost your confidence if you're worried.

"What about all the expensive equipment?"

Most good courses let you use professional equipment during training. Some give you a complete toolkit to keep (worth £500-£1,500). Always check what's included before you pay — this can make a huge difference to the real cost.

"Can I keep my day job while training?"

Absolutely. Part-time and evening options are designed exactly for this. Weekend intensives and flexible scheduling mean you don't have to quit your job. Some employers even support career development with study leave.

"What insurance do I actually need?" Public liability insurance is essential — protects you if something goes wrong with a client's pet ^{[1] [2]}. Employers' liability is legally required if you employ anyone. Many insurers want to see a Level 3 qualification before they'll cover you ^[2]. Expect £1-5 million coverage options ^[3].

"How much will I actually earn around Folkestone?" Employed groomers: £18,000-£25,000 annually ^[3] Self-employed: £25-£50 per dog (experienced professionals charge premium rates) Reality check: Your location, reputation, and specialization make a huge difference. For detailed pricing insights, see our UK grooming prices guide and explore local grooming services to understand market rates.

"Is there room to grow in this career?" Definitely. The industry constantly evolves with new techniques and equipment. Advanced workshops and masterclasses are available for qualified groomers. Popular topics include breed-specific styling, new technologies, and business development. To stay current with grooming trends, explore our seasonal guides like winter grooming tips and summer coat care.

"How do I connect with other groomers?"

Kent has an active grooming community with regular meetups and trade shows. Nationally, join organizations like:

• The Groomers Spotlight ^[1]
• British Dog Groomers' Association (BDGA)
• Pet Industry Federation (PIF) ^[2]

These connections are invaluable for career development and staying current with industry standards.