City and Guilds Dog Grooming Assistant Level 2
If you’re curious about a career in dog grooming and want to take your first step into the industry, the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate for Dog Grooming Assistants at South Devon College is the perfect place to start. This accredited course offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of dog grooming and is ideal if you’re just starting out and want to build the foundational skills needed to work in a grooming salon.
You’ll learn how to handle dogs safely and professionally, covering key skills such as bathing, drying, brushing, basic trimming and introductory styling. You’ll also explore how to transport animals securely, follow health and safety protocols, and manage reception duties and payments, all within our specialist grooming facilities. Sessions are led by experienced tutors who are industry professionals, ensuring you gain real insight and hands-on confidence.
To support your practical learning, you’ll need to commit to 3–4 hours of independent study each week to complete tasks set by your tutor. You’ll need a minimum of three GCSEs at grade 3 or above (or equivalent) to join the course. All grooming tools are provided, but you’ll be expected to wear non-slip, closed-toe shoes and appropriate clothing – this may include a water-resistant grooming tunic. There’s no need to bring your own dog to lessons.
Once you’ve completed the course, you could progress to the Level 3 Dog Grooming qualification or start working in a dog grooming salon or pet care business.
Funding Options: If you’re aged 19+, have lived in the UK for the past three years (outside of devolved education regions), and are not currently on an apprenticeship, you may be eligible for course funding. Your financial circumstances will also be taken into account. Click here for more information or contact our Helpzone team at [email protected].

Course Details
- You must have a GCSE Grade 3(D) in Maths
- You must have a GCSE Grade 3(D) in English
- You will need to have achieved a minimum of 3 GCSEs at grade 3(D) or above
- You should have a genuine interest in this subject
Prepare and groom dogs prior to bathing
Bathe and clean dogs
Clean and maintain equipment used for grooming
Control and restrain animals
Dry dogs and prepare their coats for styling
Basic trimming of a dogs coat
Maintain the cleanliness and bio security of the animal care working environment
Course Applications
Please choose your preferred study option below (subject to change).
This course costs: £2011.00
If the amount shown is more than £0.00 and you are aged 19 and over at the start of the course, you may have options to help fund your studies with us. The funding you can receive depends on your personal circumstances, and could mean you are entitled to fully subsidised or reduced tuition fees.
Many of our courses are fully funded for 16-18 year olds however not all courses are available for this age group.
You may also be entitled to support with travel, childcare and equipment.
To find out exactly what you could receive, contact our Helpzone team on 08000 380 123 for a free, impartial appointment, with no commitment necessary.
This course costs: £2021.00
If the amount shown is more than £0.00 and you are aged 19 and over at the start of the course, you may have options to help fund your studies with us. The funding you can receive depends on your personal circumstances, and could mean you are entitled to fully subsidised or reduced tuition fees.
Many of our courses are fully funded for 16-18 year olds however not all courses are available for this age group.
You may also be entitled to support with travel, childcare and equipment.
To find out exactly what you could receive, contact our Helpzone team on 08000 380 123 for a free, impartial appointment, with no commitment necessary.
“I’ve been a veterinary nurse for 17 years and have managed 2 surgeries, working in Paignton and Bristol as well as in Cape Town, South Africa. I love watching learners grow in confidence, and there’s no greater pleasure than seeing a student develop into an experienced professional with an exciting future ahead of them.”Donna Fowler