Ingrid lives in Maidenhead and had already been working as a dog walker before deciding to train as a groomer. She knew she wanted to build on what she was already doing and take the next step professionally.

“I started this course because I want to become a dog groomer.”

She spent time researching her options and eventually chose a course she could realistically travel to. Fitting training around her dog walking work was important, and she was able to organise her days so that both could run alongside each other.

“Kate was very flexible and worked around my available days, so it fit in really well with my dog walking.”

At the beginning, the amount of information felt overwhelming – especially with English not being her first language.

“At the beginning it was so much information and a bit difficult with the language.”

But she kept asking questions, taking notes, and gradually everything started to settle. What felt heavy at first became manageable.

“After a while it became easy.”

Working with different blades, attachments and equipment was another area she had wondered about before starting.

“I thought it might be difficult with all the blades and attachments, but once it was explained, it was fine.”

The environment suited her. She liked that it felt cosy and more intimate, with just a few students at a time. That helped her feel comfortable asking questions and building confidence steadily.

Her proudest moment wasn’t a single groom – it was finishing.

“Finishing today – I’m very proud of me because at the beginning I thought it might be too much, but I managed.”

Now Ingrid plans to combine grooming with her existing dog walking work and become a mobile groomer with a van. With a background in photography as well, she hopes to bring that into her new business too, offering action shots of pets alongside her grooming services.

She’s leaving feeling proud of herself and ready to move forward.

“I feel very proud finishing and ready to move forward as a dog groomer.”