At a Glance
- Tasks: Learn dog grooming skills while assisting experienced groomers in a fun, supportive environment.
- Company: Join Dogwood Grooming, a leading natural pet grooming spa in Bournemouth.
- Benefits: Gain a Level 2 qualification, receive full training, and enjoy career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Exciting pathway to becoming a full-time dog groomer with a passionate team.
- Why this job: Turn your love for dogs into a rewarding career with hands-on experience and ongoing support.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English & Maths preferred; no prior grooming qualifications required.
The predicted salary is between 15500 - 20000 € per year.
Location: Bournemouth, BH11 8PN
Course Duration: 16 months
Application Deadline: 26.5.26
Weekly Hours: 40 hours – Working 09:00 – 18:00, any 5 days of the week Monday – Saturday, 1 hour lunch break a day
Dogwood Grooming, part of Pets Corner, is a natural pet grooming spa offering high-quality, personalised grooming services for dogs of all breeds and sizes. We provide a full range of treatments, including bathing, styling, nail care, and coat maintenance, all tailored to each dog’s individual needs. Our salons are designed to be calm, safe, and stress‑free environments where animal welfare is our top priority. Using gentle handling and naturally derived products, our trained team ensures every dog receives the highest standard of care and leaves looking and feeling their best.
The apprentice will work towards becoming a qualified stylist through hands‑on training, supporting experienced groomers, and completing a structured grooming portfolio to track their progress. They will gain practical experience working with a variety of dogs, assist with day‑to‑day salon tasks, and develop the skills needed to deliver high standards of grooming and customer care. With ongoing training and development, the role offers an exciting opportunity to build confidence in a professional environment and develop strong relationships with customers and their pets.
For the right candidate, this apprenticeship provides a clear pathway into a long‑term career with Dogwood Grooming, with opportunities to progress and grow within the business. We’re passionate about growing our team, and many of our trainees have gone on to build long‑term, rewarding careers with us, supported by ongoing training, development, and a positive team environment.
The successful apprentice’s job role will include, but is not limited to:
- Welcoming clients and their dogs into the salon
- Updating customer records and taking bookings
- Bathing
- Drying
- Nail trimming
- De‑shedding
- Additional treatments
- Prepping dogs for styling
- Customer service
- Cleaning and maintenance of the salon and equipment
Once competent, the successful applicant will progress to basic clipping and styling work.
Desired Skills & Qualities: Our ideal apprentice will have a genuine interest in Dogwood, including our values, products, and approach to pet care. They will be confident and positive when handling dogs, with a natural ability to build strong relationships with both customers and their pets. They will also demonstrate excellent communication skills, a willingness to learn, and a passion for ongoing training and development. The successful candidate will be motivated, reliable, and able to work both as part of a busy team and independently, showing drive and determination in everything they do.
Desired Qualifications: GCSEs in English & Maths are desired. Applicants MUST NOT already hold a grooming qualification at level 2 or higher to be eligible.
Future Prospects: Full time dog groomer. For the right candidate, this apprenticeship provides a clear pathway into a long‑term career with Dogwood Grooming, with opportunities to progress and grow within the business.
Training: Full training to be provided by the employer and KEITS at the place of employment. The applicant will be working towards and gain a Level 2 Dog Grooming Apprenticeship Standard. The learner will be allocated an industry‑specific training consultant who will provide both remote and on‑site visits throughout the apprenticeship. The apprentice will work towards an End Point Assessment (EPA) at the end of their apprenticeship.
Things to Consider: KEITS Training Services Ltd reserves the right to close the vacancy earlier than the listed closing date should the need arise. The apprentice will be working to build a portfolio of evidence and will be required to pass a knowledge test and an End Point Assessment (EPA) to complete the apprenticeship. Due to the popularity of these apprenticeships you may not hear from the employer until after the closing date or if unsuccessful.
Dog Grooming Trainee Stylist Apprentice (Dogwood – Bournemouth) employer: KEITS
Dogwood Grooming, part of Pets Corner, is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being of both pets and employees. Located in Bournemouth, we offer a supportive and nurturing work environment where apprentices can thrive through hands-on training and ongoing development. With a clear pathway to a fulfilling career in dog grooming, our team fosters strong relationships and encourages personal growth, making it a rewarding place to build your future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Dog Grooming Trainee Stylist Apprentice (Dogwood – Bournemouth)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Dogwood and their values! Before your interview, spend some time researching the company. Show us that you’re genuinely interested in their approach to pet care and how they treat their furry clients.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your dog handling skills! If you can, volunteer at a local shelter or pet grooming salon. This hands-on experience will not only boost your confidence but also give you some great stories to share during your interview.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to showcase your communication skills! During the interview, we want to see how well you connect with both people and pets. Practice explaining your passion for grooming and how you’d handle different situations with customers.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us that you’re serious about joining the Dogwood team and starting your journey in dog grooming.
We think you need these skills to ace Dog Grooming Trainee Stylist Apprentice (Dogwood – Bournemouth)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Pets:When writing your application, let us know why you love dogs and what makes you excited about grooming. Share any experiences you've had with pets, as this will show us you're genuinely interested in joining our team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and approach of Dogwood. Highlight how your skills and qualities align with our commitment to animal welfare and customer care. We want to see that you understand what we're all about!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. This helps us quickly see your strengths and suitability for the role. Remember, we appreciate a well-structured application!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at KEITS
✨Know Your Stuff About Dogwood
Before the interview, take some time to research Dogwood and its values. Understand their approach to pet care and grooming services. This will show your genuine interest in the company and help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Show Off Your People Skills
As a Dog Grooming Trainee Stylist Apprentice, you'll be interacting with both dogs and their owners. Practice how you communicate your passion for animal care and customer service. Be ready to share examples of how you've built relationships in previous roles or experiences.
✨Demonstrate Your Willingness to Learn
Highlight your eagerness to learn and grow within the role. Talk about any relevant experiences where you've taken the initiative to develop new skills, especially in a hands-on environment. This will reassure them that you're committed to becoming a qualified stylist.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Think about potential scenarios you might face in the salon, like handling a nervous dog or dealing with a customer complaint. Be prepared to discuss how you'd approach these situations, showcasing your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure.
