It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and we’re proud to highlight some of our fantastic employers. We recently spoke to Sarah from Southborough Pet Groomers about her experience of hiring apprentices and working with Haddon Training.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your history in the industry and your business?
My name is Sarah, and I am the owner of Southborough Pet Groomers, a well-established and successful salon providing professional grooming services for dogs, cats, and small animals. I have worked in the pet industry for over 11 years, following a career change from the banking sector driven by my passion for animal welfare.
My journey began at an animal rescue centre before progressing to the ownership of a pet shop and boarding facility, where we opened our first grooming salon. In 2022, I made the decision to sell the retail side of the business and relocate the grooming salon, allowing us to focus entirely on pet welfare, professional grooming, and the education of both owners and students. This shift enabled us to raise standards, invest in training, and support the next generation entering the industry.
When did you first start hiring apprentices, and what motivated you to take this step?
After being recognised as a Kent Work Experience Supporter, with over 30 students completing work experience placements or their Duke of Edinburgh Awards with us, it became clear that there was a growing need for structured, high-quality training within the grooming industry.
With the closure of the local college and the increasing availability of expensive or poorly delivered online courses that do not offer adequate practical training, we felt a responsibility to help bridge that gap. As a result, we began hiring apprentices in 2023, offering a genuine pathway into the profession for students who are passionate about grooming and committed to learning correctly and safely.
What benefits have you seen in your business from having apprentices on your team?
Offering apprenticeships has been incredibly rewarding. We are able to support motivated individuals who are keen to develop a long-term career in grooming while sharing our knowledge, skills, and professional standards.
As part of their training, apprentices gain valuable hands-on experience across all areas of the business, including maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, supporting diary management, handling phone enquiries, and assisting with the safe handling of excited or anxious pets. These responsibilities help build confidence, professionalism, and a strong understanding of salon operations.
As their skills and competence develop, apprentices become an integral part of the team, enabling us to improve efficiency, expand our capacity, and meet growing customer demand – all while maintaining the high standards of care and animal welfare we pride ourselves on.
How has your experience been working with Haddon Training?
Having previously worked with another apprenticeship provider, I can confidently say that switching to Haddon Training has been an extremely positive decision. Their approach has been professional, efficient, and genuinely supportive, with clear communication throughout the process.
The structured training programme and delivery have given our current apprentice the confidence to progress independently, while significantly reducing the administrative burden on me as a business owner. This allows me to focus on providing high-quality, practical, hands-on training in the salon, alongside running the business. Haddon Training’s support has been instrumental in making the apprenticeship experience a success for both the apprentice and the business.
Find out more about our animal care and dog grooming apprenticeships here.
Are you a business that is looking to hire an apprentice? Please get in touch with us here.
