A Cut Above the Rest: Award-Winning Dog Grooming lecturer
We would like to take a moment to shine a spotlight on Alison our dog grooming lecturer here at Dearne Valley College, who has recently been awarded a ‘THIS IS YOUR LIFE’ prestige award by the Groomphoria Choice Awards!
She received this award in recognition of her outstanding talent, unwavering passion, and dedication to the dog grooming industry!
With over 30 years of experience, Alison embodies the spirit of dedication and passion in the education sector.
Starting her journey at just 16 years old as a dog groomer, Alison went on to run her own grooming salon and training academy before becoming a tutor. Her impressive qualifications consist of – City & Guilds 730, an OCR Level 4, and full certification as a City & Guilds 7750 Dog Groomer with a Higher Grooming Diploma – reflect her commitment to excellence.
As a member of the Guild of Master Groomers and a holder of the prestigious LCGI title, Alison’s profound knowledge and training inspire and elevate the educational experience for all our learners.
As an educator, Alison has been inspiring others by sharing her expertise to guide them to achieve remarkable results. Over the years having trained many students, she’s had the joys in seeing them establish successful dog grooming businesses.
Some have boldly entered the competitive scene, achieving impressive placements at major events like British Dog Grooming Championships, Eurogroom, Groommania, and Premier Groom. Some of her students have even triumphed by winning Best in Show!
Alison is a world-renowned judge, recognised for her keen eye and discerning palate for canine beauty. She has officiated at international competitions across the globe, including events in the UK, Europe, and America. One of her greatest honours was judging the World Championships at Groomania in Belgium in 2017.
In addition to her judging duties, Alison has conducted seminars in various countries including Spain, Ukraine, Belgium, the USA, Chine, Sweden, Ireland, Englas and Scotland! Through these seminars, she has helped shape the industry’s standards of excellence. Recently, she has returned from judging a competition in Italy in early January and has already been invited to judge another event in China later this year!
Alison has also made a splash on an impressive lineup of TV shows, showcasing her expertise in dog grooming and lending her talents behind the scenes! From This morning and the charming Escape to the Country, to the BBC Look North and Calendar, her presence has been felt all over the screen.
She’s also contributed to Lisa and Hughes Pet Nation on Sky TV. Not to mention her behind-the-scenes work on the BBC’s Pooch Perfect, just to name a few, she’s sharing her passion for pets in various animal features.
With her vibrant energy and all her knowledge Alison truly lights up the world of dog grooming and beyond.
Alison“I always try to give back to the world of dog grooming, by showing, helping and growing this industry to encourage new and old groomers to keep going and work hard.”
Alison’s passion for her subject is infectious, and it shines through in our students’ enthusiasm. So, we would like to wish her a big thank you for sharing her love of learning with them – and with us!
We’re so lucky to have Alison here at Dearne Valley College.