The Higher Diploma is awarded to groomers who can demonstrate the expertise and skill required to finish a range of dogs to an exemplary standard and demonstrate level 4 knowledge in relation to canine health and business management.
The qualification has undergone redevelopment to ensure that the qualification is kept current in relation to the ever evolving grooming industry. The re-design allows students to demonstrate their superior skills in dog grooming whilst incorporating broader theoretical content, necessary for any professional groomer running a business in the industry today.
The course is self-taught, by following the guidelines set out in the syllabus, students will prepare themselves for practical dog grooming exams as well as written assignments and exams.
Once all 10 modules have been successfully completed students can apply to join The Guild of Master Groomers.
See a list of all the current members of the Guild of Master Groomers HERE
If you have any questions please email:
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Entry requirements
In order to enrol onto the qualification you must have successfully completed either:
City & Guilds Diploma in Dog Grooming (7863-03)
City & Guilds Level 3 Diploma for Professional Dog Stylists (7763-03)
Or
Be able to Demonstrate a CV of career profile and achievements, with recognition at the discretion of the Awarding Organisation
Price
Option 1:The complete qualification can be purchased for £1000 (£1250 for non-members)
Option 2: The course can be purchased as individual modules at £140 per module (£175 for non-members)
Option 3: Purchase 5 modules for £600 (£725 for non-members)
Once you have made a purchase you will receive a copy of the full syllabus.
If you have already completed some modules and wish to pay for the remainder in one go, please email the address above.
Course Structure
Module |
Title |
Suggested breeds |
Assessed by |
1 |
Carry out scissoring (One) |
Poodle; Bichon Frise; Bedlington Terrier; Kerry Blue Terrier) |
Practical exam |
2 |
Carry out scissoring (Two) |
Tibetan Terrier; Shih Tzu; Lhasa Apso; Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier; Old English Sheepdog; Bearded Collie; Lowchen |
Practical exam |
3 |
Carry out clipping, blending and scissoring using innovative tools and techniques |
Terriers; Schnauzers |
Practical exam |
4 |
Carry out hand stripping of wire coated breeds |
Airedale Terrier; Scottish Terrier; Lakeland Terrier; West Highland Terrier; Sealyham Terrier; Welsh Terrier; Wire Haired Fox Terrier; Dandie Dinmont Terrier; Schnauzers |
Practical exam |
5 |
Carry out stripping of silky coated gundogs |
Cocker Spaniel; American Cocker Spaniel; English Springer Spaniel; Welsh Springer; Setters |
Practical exam |
6 |
Carry out freestyling on dogs |
Either a cross breed or pure breed with a coat suitable for styling |
Practical exam |
7 |
Premier grooming case studies |
Dogs used in modules 1 or 2, 3 or 4 & 5 |
Portfolio evidence = 3 case studies |
8 |
Promote and maintain animal health and wellbeing |
NA |
Written 1.5 hour exam |
9 |
Salon and business management |
NA |
Written 1.5 hour exam |
10 |
Work-based grooming industry project |
NA |
Graded project |
|
For more information, module summaries can be found here
New students will have 4 years in which to complete the Higher Diploma.
Assessment
We have a senior examiner team for the practical modules, who will work closely with a team of ‘Highers’ examiners. All of whom are members of the Guild of Master Groomers, and are highly skilled and experienced in the industry.
Practical examinations will be held at various times across the country - please contact us on the above email if you would like the most update dates and venues. Bespoke exams are also available at an additional cost.
The theory element of the course is completed in modules 7 to 10. Modules 7 and 10 will be submitted for grading by another suitably qualified member of the Guild of Master Groomers, working in the industry. Modules 8 and 9 are written exams which will take place twice per year.
Any failed modules must be re-taken.
Please note that the City & Guilds LCGI is no longer attached to this qualification, however we do offer it separately - please see further information here.