Northwich, Cheshire
Four Paws Groom School
Four Paws Groom School is a popular dog grooming training school in Cheshire offering dog grooming courses and qualifications for those wanting to learn as a hobby or career.
Four Paws Groom School, Cheshire
Four Paws Groom School was established by Fern Gresty in 2010 to provide dog grooming training courses that met the commercial demand for dog groomers. Fern struggled to employ suitable groomers and found many needing more training. Her own experience of grooming training courses helped her identify the need for practical training courses which covered more than just clippers! As such, Four Paws Groom School was born and a course designed and created for total novices to gain employment as a dog groomer or start a dog grooming business of their own. Fast-forward to 2015 and Sarah Mackay joined Four Paws Groom School as a Tutor and identified the opportunity of taking the Four Paws course to an Awarding Organisation and creating an Ofqual regulated qualification that differed from the ones currently available. The difference? The new wave of cross breed dogs such as Cockerpoos and Cavachons (which were by now a grooming salons ‘bread and butter’) could be used to prove a groomers skills and not be restricted to exams on pure breeds in full coat (which are often unusual outside of the showing world). Fern and Sarah became a team and took the plunge into a business partnership which brought all their skills and knowledge together. Four Paws Groom School in Cheshire moved to new premises which were designed to be modern, practical and a great teaching environment for students, staff and of course the dogs! Welcoming students from Europe and across the globe.
Four Paws Groom School has an excellent reputation for quality and care. Additionally, the Cheshire branch also has self-catering accommodation available making distance no object.
Since 2020 Four Paws Groom School have offered the iPET Network portfolio of qualifications, finding they meet the needs of the industry and give our learners the best start to a new and exciting career. Up skill qualifications are also available for those with experience meaning learning opportunities and qualifications are available to all. Inclusive, accessible and reliable, a Four Paws Groom School course offers more.
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Groom Your Own Dog Taster Session
Perfect for pet owners that want to learn the correct tools to use on their own dog, complete a face and feet tidy up and how to maintain their dogs coat inbetween grooms.
Practical ONLY Dog Grooming Course
Practical ONLY Dog Grooming Courses teaching the fundamentals of dog grooming and styling without the need to complete theory work.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Dog Walking and Pet Sitting for Professionals
This qualification course is ideal for anyone who wishes to gain the skills and knowledge to safely and professionally operate a dog walking or pet sitting business.
iPET Network Level 4 Award in Canine Emergency First Aid in the Workplace
This qualification course is perfect for pet professionals and business’ that have dogs in their care such as kennels, daycare facilities, grooming salons, retail businesses and commercial businesses.
iPET Network Level 2 Award in An Introduction to Canine Nutrition Course
This qualification is perfect for pet professionals looking to expand their knowledge about Canine Nutrition and the health of their dogs or those they work with.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine Oral Hygiene
The iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine Oral Hygiene qualification, the course has been designed in collaboration with a wide range of canine industry professionals, ensuring it incorporates up-to-date research and delivers the relevant knowledge and understanding demanded by the canine industry. The qualification is perfect for pet professionals and owners alike, it will support employment and […]
iPET Network Level 2 Award in First Aid for Dogs
This course is perfect for owners who want to be prepared should a pet need emergency treatment.
iPET Network Level 2 Award in Canine Care, Health and Behaviour
This qualification course is ideal for anyone with a keen interest in the health, behaviour and care of our canine companions.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Canine First Aid
This course is perfect for owners and professionals alike who want to be prepared should a pet need first aid treatment.
iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Day Care and Boarding
This qualification has been designed to allow anyone with an interest or career plan to work in a dog daycare or dog boarding facility to gain the knowledge needed to safely and correctly maintain a dogs welfare whilst in your care.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Promotion of Canine Skin, Hair and Nail Health
This qualification course is ideal for pet professionals to gain the knowledge and understanding of the tools, methods and techniques used to keep the skin, hair and nails of dogs in optimum condition.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Microchip Implantation for Pet Animals
This course is perfect for owners and professionals alike who want to be prepared should a pet need emergency treatment.
iPET Network Level 2 Award in Principles of Puppy Socialisation
This qualification ours is for those looking to own a dog, possibly for the first time, or those who already own a dog and want to learn more about their responsibilities as a dog owner.
iPET Network Level 2 Award in Responsible Dog Ownership
This qualification ours is for those looking to own a dog, possibly for the first time, or those who already own a dog and want to learn more about their responsibilities as a dog owner.
Ultimate Dog Grooming Professional Package
Bespoke plan that can take a complete novice to skillful dog groomer, capable of launching, operating & profiting from a canine business with a full recipe for success.
iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Cat Grooming and Salon Management
Cat grooming is a booming profession in the UK with a growing market that is ripe for those wanting to start cat grooming in a professional capacity.
iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management – Extended days
With this extended course completing 30 days in our school, you will groom a minimum of 20 dog breeds and be introduced to professional dog grooming practices and methods.
iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Over 25 days in our school, you will groom a minimum of 20 dog breeds and be introduced to professional dog grooming practices and methods.
FAST TRACK – iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management
Get qualified on the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management for experienced groomers ONLY.
iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Dog Grooming and Introduction to Styling
Over 15 days in our school, you will groom a minimum of 10 dog breeds and be introduced to professional dog grooming practices and methods.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Dog Grooming
Over 5 days in our school, you will groom a minimum of 3 dog breeds and be introduced to professional dog grooming practices and methods.
iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Cat Grooming and Introduction to Styling
The iPET Network Level 3 Certificate in Cat Grooming & Introduction to Styling qualification course is ideal for those with a keen interest in cat grooming and seeking practical grooming experience under expert tuition.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in an Introduction to Cat Grooming
Cats are one of the most popular pets in the UK and with the rise in popularity of fancy breeds and longer haired cats, cat grooming is more important than ever.
Dog Grooming Taster Day
A taster day in our school is ideal for anyone who would like an insight into our courses and what dog grooming entails.
Good to Groom ‘in house’ course
Building on our taster days, we now have a 3-day Good to Groom course that covers the practical fundamentals of grooming without the need to complete theory work.
Groom Your Own Dog Day
Perfect for pet owners that want to learn how to groom their own dog at home and build a greater bond.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Hand Stripping
The course will take you through the theory of wire and silk coated breeds and different hand stripping methods, techniques and tools to use and their benefits.
iPET Network Level 3 Award in Education and Training for Animal and Veterinary Professionals
Being an educator is a highly rewarding role, even more so in the world of animal care where the things you teach people directly impacts the welfare animals.
Dog Grooming Improvement Days
Our dog grooming improvement days are perfect for those that have completed the iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Salon Management qualification.
The Team
Sarah Mackay joined the Four Paws family in 2015 as a tutor after leaving behind a career in the corporate world to follow her passion. Her creativity and focus on quality teaching led to her becoming a Business Partner and fellow Director of Four Paws Groom School Cheshire in 2016. Together Fern and Sarah have launched […]
Starting her early work life in sales and marketing, Fern’s career quickly went to the dogs! Like so many, Fern was inspired by her own canine companion’s welfare, and this saw her found a group of canine businesses offering a wide selection of services. Encompassing her passion for animals, education and business, the group has grown […]
FAQs
Articles
Why Consider a Career Working with Animals After Christmas?
The holiday season often prompts people to reassess their personal and professional lives. For animal lovers, this period might highlight a deeper desire to align their career with their passions. Transitioning to an animal-related career after Christmas can be a transformative step, offering personal fulfilment and professional growth. The Fresh Start Mentality after Christmas With New […]
Biosecurity in Dog Grooming: Protecting Pets and Professionals
Biosecurity in dog grooming is crucial to maintaining the health and safety of pets, groomers, and the broader community. It encompasses a range of practices designed to prevent the spread of diseases, parasites, and harmful pathogens among animals. Whether you’re a professional groomer or a pet owner, understanding and implementing biosecurity measures is essential. We teach […]
Comparing the Different Types of Dog Grooming Businesses in the UK
Dog grooming is a thriving industry in the UK, with pet owners increasingly prioritising their dogs’ hygiene and appearance. For those considering a career in dog grooming—or looking for services for their own pet—it’s helpful to understand the various business models available. Each type of dog grooming business has unique benefits, challenges, and customer bases. Here’s […]
The Importance of Microchipping Cats and Dogs
At Four Paws Groom School, we understand that pets are cherished family members, providing endless joy, companionship, and love. As responsible pet owners, ensuring their safety and well-being is a top priority. One of the most effective measures to safeguard your pets is microchipping—a simple yet impactful procedure that can significantly aid in reuniting lost pets […]
Success Story Spotlight – Groomer Clare from Cumbria
We’re thrilled to celebrate Clare’s journey with us at Four Paws Groom School this month. After a career of over two decades in contract catering, Clare from Carlisle, Cumbria, decided to pursue a new dream in grooming by establishing Queen of Paws. She started her iPET Network Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming and Salon Management […]
Success Story Spotlight – Groomer Mel from Rutland
We’re thrilled to celebrate Mel’s groomer journey with us at Four Paws Groom School this month. Mel from Rutland, changed her catering career of three decades to set up her dream business of becoming a mobile dog groomer. She embarked on her grooming adventure in May 2023, and as of Christmas 2023, has had to close […]
Keeping Your Furry Friend’s Smile Healthy – The Importance of Canine Oral Hygiene.
Imagine if you never brushed your teeth or visited the dentist – not a pleasant picture, right? The same goes for our furry friends when it comes to canine oral hygiene.
Turning your passion into a job – BBC Bitesize Focus on Rebecca at Four Paws Groom School
We are in the business of helping people turn their passion into a new career. Everyone who completes a dog grooming training course with us simply loves dogs and working with them is a dream come true. Over the last 15 years we have been approach by several media agencies to discuss our training, dog grooming […]
Grooming Golden Oldies – Pets & People
Most people wouldn’t appreciate being referred to as a Senior but reality is that we are living longer than ever before and thankfully our beloved dogs are too. Although their life span is relatively short compared to ours, through the development of veterinary practices, medicines and technology, our pets are enjoying longer lives. We have therefore […]
Puppy Grooming – looking great for life
Getting a new puppy is an exciting prospect and we are hugely attracted by how a puppy looks to us, therefore puppy grooming is essential to keep them looking and feeling great for life. Considering grooming when choosing a puppy Before a new puppy joins your home there is so much to consider, the biggest being […]
A new career in Dog Grooming
Looking for a new career with animals When looking to start a new career, it is vital to start with something you enjoy and with an estimated 12 million dogs in the UK, the British population certainly love their dogs! When once dogs were left to roam our streets, they are now the most pampered pet […]
Student success story – Dog Grooming Training
At Four Paws Groom School, we want to shine a light on some of our past students; this year, we will share 12 success stories. Let’s celebrate this success together. we’re thrilled to kick off this year with Chloe’s incredible success story who completed her dog grooming training at the school and achieve the iPET Network […]
Demystifying Hand Stripping for Wiry Coated Dog Breeds
Have you heard about hand stripping but find yourself wondering what it is and if it’s the right grooming method for your furry friend? Look no further – we’re here to break down the basics of hand stripping, including what it is, which breeds benefit from it, and how to maintain a hand stripped at home. […]
Lucy, Student
The team really are great and were very welcoming, it is like a little family. Thank you for giving my confidence back. THANK YOU! The school and its staff are fab. This course has helped me enormously
Yasmine, Student
Found the course challenging at times with juggling my child and being pregnant but felt the tutors supported me really well and helped me to complete the course.
Laura, Student
Thank you for everything, I’ve had a great time and I feel like I could finally start having a go myself thanks to you guys. The instruction has been great.
Sam, Student
Love the course!! Tutors were fantastic! Support and advice given through- felt confident in asking lots of questions, as tutors were very patient. Great environment, cannot think of anything that I would change!
Abigail, Student
Training alongside all the tutors at Four Paws has been amazing. The atmosphere is relaxed and feels homely. Everyone is extremely helpful even during difficult days where maybe staff or student levels were a little lower or higher than planned. All the staff were extremely knowledgeable and provided a great moral and supportive network.
Jill, Student
Fantastic course, I have learnt so much and enjoyed every day. All staff have been amazing. Thank you!
Hannah, Student
Diploma Fast Track Course - I was very happy with the course, it has great content and is much more thorough than the diploma I did 8 years ago. The tutors were all knowledgeable, helpful and always supportive. I think it’s helpful to be able to do assessments virtually too so that’s worked particularly well for me as I’m not local to Northwich. I’ve been able to finish it in really good time so the course length is more than adequate too. Thank you for an enjoyable qualification!
Lily, Student
I have really enjoyed the course and feel like I have learnt a lot. I like that you are left to try what you can without the tutors hovering too much, but they are always around when you ask for help.
Charlotte, Student
The course has been great! I have enjoyed every second of it, it is very informative and helped me learn new skills and develop those I already had.