FIND YOUR PLACE IN THE INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION PATHWAY

Direct Entry Assessment: Begin at Block 4

Whether you’ve just finished a hands-on grooming course or have been working as a groomer for a few years, this free assessment helps place you at the right point in our Industry Certification Pathway. If you're ready, you’ll skip the foundation Blocks and start with Block 4, designed to grow your skills and credibility as a professional groomer.
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Who is this for?

The Direct Entry Assessment is for groomers who already have hands-on experience and want to keep learning.

RECENT GRADUATES
Completed a Cert III or recognised grooming course and want to continue building skills.

EXPERIENCED GROOMERS
Two or more years in the salon and looking to gain recognition without repeating beginner content.

What does it cover?

The Assessment includes:

  • A theory quiz with multiple choice and short answer questions
  • Photo submissions from three full grooms
  • Extended responses on handling and client scenarios - written or recorded
  • Two professional references
  • A short personal reflection

It’s designed to assess your knowledge, skills, and readiness to start at Block 4.

Why take the Assessment?

  • It’s free to access
  • It recognises your existing skills and knowledge
  • It helps place you at the right starting point
  • It’s your entry into a recognised certification pathway

Start with Block 4 and gain the confidence, skills, and recognition to back your experience.

Meet the Experts Behind the Training

Blocks 4 and 5 are guided by some of the most respected names in the grooming industry. From competition-winning stylists and judges, to seasoned educators, you’ll be learning from the best.
NATALIE WEST
Founder of Dog Diversity Grooming School in Melbourne and co-founder of igroomhub, Natalie is a respected grooming educator with over 30 years of experience. She is known for her commitment to dog welfare and structured training, and was honored with the 2024 Individual Excellence in Pet Grooming Award by the PIAA.



MICHELLE WEBER
An award-winning groomer and educator with over 25 years in the industry, Michelle specialises in English Springer Spaniels, Poodles, and Asian Fusion styles. She’s spent over a decade training students and now contributes her expertise to igroomhub and the Australian Dog Grooming School.


ALICIA FRAGIADAKIS
An International Master Dog Groomer with over 18 years of experience, Alicia is the owner of Beauty and Beast Dog Grooming. She has won multiple Best in Show titles in grooming competitions and the conformation ring. Alicia was a runner-up on the TV show Pooch Perfect in 2020 and is a respected judge and educator in the grooming industry.



PRUE HAMMOND
An International Master Groomer with over 38 years of experience, Prue has won numerous awards in various grooming categories. She owns Styled With Prue Grooming School-Studio, offering workshops and hands-on seminars. Prue is dedicated to sharing her extensive knowledge with other groomers.

TIARNE PERKISS
Founder of Perky Pooches Grooming Salon and the Elite Dog Grooming Academy, Tiarne has been grooming since age 12. She has won multiple Best in Show awards and is a member of Groom Team Australia. Tiarne is passionate about education and trains the next generation of groomers through her academy.

CHUCKIE LUND
Owner of Pimp My Pet in Western Australia, Chuckie has over 18 years of grooming experience. She specializes in hand stripping breeds like Australian Terriers and West Highland White Terriers. Chuckie is dedicated to mentoring upcoming groomers and has guided TAFE students through their practical hours.

COLLEEN BEAGLEY
With a background in animal science, Colleen has been involved in the grooming industry since 2009. She has worked in salons and vet clinics and is passionate about managing health and behavioral issues in the salon. Colleen believes in continuous education and enjoys mentoring others in the industry.

NICKY RENWOOD (WALLACE)
An internationally renowned Certified Master Groomer and accomplished dog show judge with over 35 years of experience. Nicky has earned multiple Best in Show awards and is co-founder of igroomhub, dedicated to advancing the grooming industry through education.

TayLAN BRADLEY
Taylan is a Melbourne-based groomer, educator, and co-director of igroomhub. With a background in teaching and a deep love for creative styling, Taylan is passionate about making quality grooming education accessible and inspiring. She specialises in Asian Fusion styling and salon work, and is known for her thoughtful, no-nonsense approach to grooming theory.


SUE WRIGHT
Sue is a Diploma-certified, award-winning Pet Stylist, IJA Judge, and leader of the Australian Model Dog Team. Known for her Asian-influenced styling, she now grooms from her home studio in Queensland and shares her expertise through seminars and her school, The Asian Fusion Dog Grooming Academy.


JESSICA BARDEN
Jessica is a third-generation dog groomer and the senior stylist at Crackin Dog Grooming. She holds a qualification in Dog Behaviour and Training and brings a thoughtful, holistic approach to grooming. Jessica is committed to ongoing education and mentoring the next generation of groomers through her contributions to igroomhub.


TEPRA WOODWARD
Owner of Barkingham Palace Dog Grooming in Sydney, Tepra is an award-winning groomer who transitioned from a career in dog care to opening her own salon, and soon to be school.

What if I'm Not Ready Yet?

No stress. If you need to brush up on theory, our Pet Stylist Theory Bundle covers Blocks 1 to 3 in full.
It’s self-paced and built to fit around work. Most students complete each Block in around 12 weeks, but you can move faster if you prefer.
This is the best way to catch up and stay on track for Block 4.
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What's in Blocks 4 and 5?

Visit Block 4 course page  
Visit Block 5 course page  
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Blocks 4 and 5 form the advanced stages of the Industry Certification Pathway

They’re designed to support your development as a working groomer - whether you’re building on recent training or looking to formalise your skills. You’ll tackle complex grooms, refine advanced techniques, and continue learning while you work.


You’ll also:

  • Receive expert feedback on your grooms

  • Learn scissoring, styling, hand stripping and more

  • Complete practical assessments via video, in person at a partner school, or at competitions

  • Attend seminars or industry events as part of your certification


Each block takes around 12 - 18 months, depending on your pace. Learn while you earn, with support all the way through. Click through some of the contents below, or learn more on each Block's course page. 

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Not sure if you’re ready? Take the assessment anyway - it’s free, and you’ll get clear direction either way.

What’s Involved in the Direct Entry Assessment?

The assessment includes a mix of theory and practical evidence. It’s designed to place you at the right starting point in the Industry Certification Pathway - whether you’ve been working in the salon or just finished your formal training.

Part 1: Theory Questions

A short online quiz with 85 multiple choice and short answer questions.
It covers key theory from Blocks 1 to 3, including:
    Bathing, drying, brushing, and coat prep
    Tools, coat types, and grooming products
    Handling, hygiene, and safety
    Basic clipping and pet styling principles

Part 2: Grooming Evidence

Upload at least three full grooms you’ve completed—each on a different dog.
For each groom, include:
    Before and after photos
    A short summary: coat type, condition, tools used, techniques applied, and styling choices
    Optional: a short video walkthrough
If you’re a recent graduate, you can submit grooms completed during your course. Grooms completed on client dogs as part of your training also count.

Part 3: Workplace Practice & Handling

Respond to a set of scenario-based questions about handling, client communication, and real-world grooming challenges. You can answer in writing or by video using the recorder inside the course platform.
If you haven’t worked in a salon yet, that’s okay - just answer based on what you’ve learned and how you would approach these situations in practice.

Part 4: References

Submit two references from people who can speak to your grooming experience.
    Reference 1: From a current or former employer, or a trainer or experienced peer who has worked closely with you
    Reference 2: From another peer in the industry (classmates or colleagues are fine)
Each reference should comment on:
  •     Your professionalism and reliability
  •     Your grooming and handling skill level
  •     Your commitment to kind, ethical grooming practices

Part 5: Self-Reflection

Write a short reflection on why you’d like to complete Blocks 4 and 5 and your goals as a groomer. This is your chance to share where you’re heading and why this pathway is right for you.
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Take the Next Step

Register now to begin your free Direct Entry Assessment.
It’s the first step to becoming a certified grooming professional - designed to recognise your experience and take you further.
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Frequently asked questions

Is this for new graduates or experienced groomers?

Both. The Direct Entry Assessment is designed to recognise existing skills and knowledge - regardless of where you gained them. Some recent grads are ready to move straight into Block 4. Some experienced groomers may need to revisit theory. The assessment helps place you at the right point in the pathway.

What happens if I don’t pass?

No stress. You’ll be invited to complete the Pet Stylist Theory Bundle, which covers Blocks 1 to 3. It’s self-paced, designed to fit around work, and ensures you’re ready to step into Block 4 with confidence.

Do I have to work in a salon?

Not at all. This pathway is designed for groomers working in all kinds of environments—mobile, home-based, or salon. Block 4 and 5 assessments can be completed via video, at a training partner, or even at a grooming competition.

Is the assessment practical or theoretical?

Both. There’s a theory exam, but you’ll also submit grooming evidence, short answer responses, and references. We’re looking at how you groom and how you think - not just what you memorised.

How long do I have to complete the assessment?

You’ll have 2 weeks from the day you register to complete all parts of the Direct Entry Assessment. Most groomers complete it within a few days, but we recommend setting aside time to upload your grooms and complete the written or video responses without rushing.
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INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION?
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The Industry Certification Pathway is a structured, modern approach to dog grooming education. Designed by experienced educators and trusted by grooming schools across Australia, it takes you from the basics right through to advanced skills, client handling, and real-world challenges. Each Block builds on the last, offering clear progression, professional recognition, and the kind of support that helps groomers grow, not just qualify.

At igroomschool, we’re shaping the future of dog grooming education. Our courses are designed to work alongside real grooming life, with a clear path to certification and expert guidance built in. Whether you're just starting out or looking to gain formal recognition for the skills you’ve already developed, this pathway gives you the tools to succeed and the credibility to stand out.