Canine Groom School celebrates first apprentices to pass Dog Grooming EPA
Training provider Canine Groom School has recently celebrated its first apprentices to pass the VetSkill Level 2 End-Point Assessment (EPA) for Dog Groomer, all receiving high scores.
This is a wonderful achievement for the apprentices, who have worked hard during their apprenticeship period gaining the Knowledge, Skills and Behaviours (KSBs) required to become dog groomers and meet the contemporary needs of the industry.
Two individuals from this first set of apprentices have shared their experiences undertaking the VetSkill EPA, remarking on the care, support and professionalism demonstrated by our assessors and staff.
One apprentice, Adrienne Halleron, commented: “My assessor from VetSkill, Joanne, did an outstanding job of helping me feel at ease during my end-point assessment. She was proactive, supportive, and professional throughout the entire process.
“Before the assessment, she arranged a Teams call with my employer and me, giving me the chance to ask questions and understand exactly what to expect on the day. This thoughtful preparation made a huge difference—it meant I wasn’t walking into the EPA feeling like I was talking to a stranger.
“On the day itself, Joanne was friendly, approachable, and professional, which really helped me stay focused on the grooming task and interview without unnecessary stress. Her calm and reassuring presence allowed me to concentrate on what mattered most: showcasing my knowledge and grooming skills.
“Thank you, Joanne and VetSkill, for making the process smooth, supportive, and empowering. I truly appreciated the opportunity to perform at my best during what can be a very stressful time”.
Another successful candidate, Rhian Dewy, shared: “VetSkill staff were really lovely to work with. They explained everything via the meeting, and I felt safe and comfortable with them the whole time. Really professional and able to accommodate where necessary”.
The apprentices have worked their way up to Gateway gaining a qualification and on-the-job training at provider Canine Groom School. Based in Lancashire, the school has been delivering private tuition, teaching and apprenticeships to students since 2012.
Commenting on these first apprentices’ success, the school expresses: “VetSkill have been a pleasure to work alongside. They have supported us as a training provider through the whole process from development right through to our first EPA. When we have had queries or questions, they have been quick and efficient in their response and support! The end-point assessors have been professional with our learners and have made them feel at ease throughout!”.
Huge congratulations to the successful apprentices. We wish you all the best on your career journey moving forward.
Apprenticeships at Canine Groom School: https://caninegroomschool.co.uk/dog-grooming-apprenticeship/
Learn more about VetSkill’s EPAs here. For further information on becoming an approved VetSkill centre, please visit: Become a Centre — VetSkill. Kiera from the VetSkill Quality Assurance Team will be in contact to arrange an initial meeting to discuss the process and provide support and guidance throughout.