The brand new Open College Network L3 Diploma in Dog Grooming was launched in January 2017 by The Open College Network West Midlands. This new qualification was introduced to be an alternative route from the City & Guilds. The OCN qualification is the same level as the full Level 3 Diploma by City & Guilds. Both the City & Guilds Diploma and the new OCN Diploma are both regulated by Ofqual and are both the only two qualifications on the National Educational Framework.
What we like about the OCN Level 3 Diploma in Dog Grooming:
Firstly, there is no need to complete a lower level qualification first, for example the C&G L2 or the C&G L3 Introductory qualification. With the OCN you can go straight on to the OCN Level 3 Diploma.
Secondly, there are no formal exams or assignments. Rather than sitting exams, which can be extremely daunting, the OCN route will provide you with worksheets for each module. These questions will be answered in your own time and at your own pace. With full support from me, your assessor.
Units included within this qualification are:
- Assess, Plan and Record Dog Grooming Work
- Canine First Aid
- Carry Out Styling and Finishing of a Dog
- Health Checking a Dog by a Dog Groomer
- Promote and Maintain the Health and Well-Being of Animals
- Welcome, Receive and Care for Customers
The practical units of this qualification comprise of completing 10 breeds of dog in 15 different styles. This sounds daunting at first, however we believe that this way proves your skills on a greater variety of breeds and techniques. Any breed or cross breed can be used, as long as you show a good variety of techniques and skills.
As a fast track option:
The fast track option is for anyone who is currently grooming but has no formal qualifications, has a level 2 qualification, or those wishing to take an alternative route.
Once you have enrolled on the qualification, we can arrange a mutually convenient date in which I can either travel to your salon or you can come to me in Somerset. I will bring your course folder and talk you through the qualification and the worksheets for each module. On this day I will then assess you on three of your 15 styles. These can be any three dog breeds that you chose. Once you have completed your initial day with me, we can start to build a portfolio of the remaining grooms that you have completed in your salon. Evidence is required in the form of photographs and videos. You have an unlimited amount of time to do this.
The final unit of the qualification is to complete one of our accredited first aid courses. These are held at venues around the country or you can come to me to complete this. I feel every groomer should complete an accredited first aid course, so this is something I hold separately also.
The full course cost is £3500 which includes your OCN enrolment fee of £500, canine first aid course worth £100, an informative course folder and all of your tuition fees.