ACM30122

Certificate III

Animal Care Services - Pet grooming

Information

Course Overview

ACM30122 Certificate III in PET GROOMING,  represents the latest nationally recognised qualification for individuals pursuing a career as professional dog groomers. It is the top grooming education course in Australia, equipping students with a profound understanding of the knowledge, skills, and techniques required to excel in the pet industry as dog groomers.

Throughout this program, students immerse themselves in the art of dog grooming, focusing on a wide range of essential tasks such as brushing, combing, nail clipping, ear cleaning, bathing, drying techniques, clippering, scissor finishing techniques, and precise pattern setting for different breeds. With a strong emphasis on acquiring grooming skills, students learn to master the intricacies of breed profiles, enhance speed and efficiency, and unlock their maximum grooming potential.

The curriculum ensures that students cultivate a proficient, responsible, and professional approach to grooming, fostering the development of highly qualified industry professionals. Under the guidance and expertise of qualified grooming instructors, students acquire the techniques and skills necessary to achieve competence in the field of professional pet grooming and styling.

Hands-on grooming applications and handling techniques are complemented by a well-structured self-study program, providing a comprehensive and well-rounded learning experience. 

COURSE DETAILS

To be eligible for this course you must; 

  • be at least 17 years old 
  • Completed year 10 or equivalent
  • Have Access to a computer, laptop or tablet
  • Internet access and Email address
  • Proficiency in speaking and writing English 
  • Physically capable of restraining animals, handling animal feed and standing for extended periods of time. 

This course is taught using a blended approach which includes online and work placement.  Using our advanced online learning portal, eliminates the need for in-person classes.

You will:

  • Receive a login to our Online Learning Platform, granting access to all course materials, including interactive content, videos, and assessments.

  • Receive personal support from our qualified Trainers and Assessors through email, online chat, or phone. Our education team consists of experienced teachers, Master Groomers, veterinary nurses and horse trainers who work in various grooming salons, veterinary practices and animal-related organisations.

  • Benefit from the assistance of our student support team to help you stay on track.


Assessment methods include:

  • Online multiple-choice quizzes

  • Online tests

  • Written and practical assignments submitted online

  • Online video assessments (e.g., Zoom)

  • Video and photographic submissions

The practical training (hands-on) is completed at the Pet Stylist Academy under the guidance and support of our qualified teachers and master groomers for 5-weeks full time. This ensures the student is taught the hands-on skills required to become a qualified groomer while being guided by our team.

During the practical training, students have access to a range of dog breeds to groom and are able to practice and perfect their skills in a safe environment. Students will develop a broad array of hands-on skills pivotal for promoting the well-being and enhancing the appearance of animals. They will master comprehensive grooming procedures tailored for a variety of breeds and species, encompassing activities such as hair trimming, bathing, brushing, and clipping. They will delve into more bespoke techniques such as coat styling, ear cleaning, and dental care, considering the distinct requirements and dispositions of diverse pets. 

  • September 30th - November 1st

  • November 4th - December 6th

While completing the ACM30122 Certificate III in Animal Care Services - PET GROOMING qualification from the National Skills Training Institute, you will study the following subjects:

Core Units
ACMBEH301    Identify behaviours and interact safely with animals 
ACMGEN315   Communicate effectively with clients and team members 
ACMGEN303   Assess welfare status of an animal 
ACMGEN304   Promote positive well-being for self and others in animal care workplaces 
ACMGEN309   Provide basic animal first aid 
ACMINF301     Comply with infection control policies and procedures in animal care work 
ACMWHS301   Contribute to workplace health and safety processes 

Elective Units
ACMGRM201   Bath, dry and brush domestic dogs 
ACMGRM303   Perform sanitary and hygiene grooms for companion animals 
ACMGRM304   Provide grooms on cross breed dogs 
ACMGRM305   Groom dogs to meet breed style and coat requirements 
ACMGRM403   Enhance companion animal coat and skin condition 
ACMSPE316     Provide general care of domestic dogs 
ACMGEN310   Provide reception services for an animal care facility 
ACMBEH302    Provide enrichment for animals 
ACMGEN311   Maintain and monitor animal health and well-being 
BSBCMM211    Apply communication skills

The full fee for the course fee is $8,000.

Students have a choice of payment options that best suit their financial circumstances:

Payment Plans
For your convenience the National Skills Training Institute offers two interest free payment plans, choose the one that best suits your lifestyle:

1. Direct Debit Options:

  • $50 per week (36 months)

  • $60 per week (30 months)

  • $75 per week (24 months)

  • $100 per week (18 months)

  • $150 per week (12 months)


2. Instalment Option: Pay in six (6) installments - 1st installment $1000 enrolment fee plus 5 x $1400 installments

Once enrolled, students will receive a student training pack that includes several important documents that students will be using for their study. These include:
 

  1. Course Checklist – this step-by-step checklist helps the student with guiding them through the process of study and practical training

  2. Student Learning Resource – this resource is the same as the student will complete via the online learning platform. 

  3. 'Notes on the Grooming Table' by Melissa Verplank – this is a resource book that groomers use during study and also in the workplace.
     

COURSE ENROLMENT PROCESS

Click on the link below to Enrol in your course.

Enrolment Form

What is a USI?

A USI is a student's individual education number for life. It also gives the student an online record of their vocational education and training (VET) undertaken in Australia.

To complete nationally recognised training, students need a USI. Without one, they can’t be awarded their qualification or statement of attainment.

How to obtain a USI?
Getting a USI is quick, easy and free. Follow the steps on the USI website. USI Application

When a student enrolls into a course, it is important that the National Skills Training Institute has a form of ID to support the enrolment. This is used to ensure the student matches the USI number. All documents are kept securely in the students file.

Acceptable forms of ID include:

  • Driver’s Licence

  • Medicare Card

  • Australian Passport

  • Visa (with Non-Australian Passport) for international students

  • Birth Certificate (Australian) * please note, a Birth Certificate extract is not sufficient

  • Certificate Of Registration By Descent

  • Citizenship Certificate

  • ImmiCard


Copies of the ID can be emailed directly to - [email protected]

We offer upfront payment, payment plans & instalment options. 

FAQS

Qualification

Yes, all courses offered by the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI) are nationally accredited in Australia. Our programs meet the rigorous standards set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), ensuring that our students receive high-quality, industry-relevant education and training that is recognised nationwide.

NSTI is a Registered Training Organisation and our number is 41462. You can view our registration details on the Australian Government’s training website, training.gov.au, which provides information on registered courses and training providers -View our details here 

We highly recommend using the RTO website to research any training organisation you are considering.  

At the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), we understand the importance of flexibility in education. That's why we allow students to start their course at any time. Enrol today and begin your journey with NSTI at your convenience!

Yes, you can finish the course faster than the set duration. At the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), our courses are designed to accommodate different learning paces. If you are committed and dedicated to your studies, you may be able to complete the course more quickly. Your progress will depend on your individual effort and the time you are able to dedicate to your coursework.

At the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), we understand that life can be unpredictable, and sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may need more time to complete your course. We provide course extensions to support our students in these situations.

Course Extensions:
Yes, you can extend the duration of your course if you do not finish it in time. We typically do not charge any fee for this extension, as we believe in supporting our students through their learning journey without added financial stress.

If you find yourself needing an extension, please reach out to our support team, and we will guide you through the process.

Competency-based training is an educational approach that focuses on equipping learners with the specific skills and knowledge required to perform tasks to industry standards. Rather than traditional time-based education, competency-based training allows students to progress at their own pace, ensuring they master each competency before moving on. This method is highly practical and outcome-focused, making it ideal for vocational education and training. By emphasising real-world application and hands-on experience, competency-based training ensures that graduates are job-ready and meet the performance expectations of their chosen industry.

Work Placement

Work placement, also known as Structured Workplace Learning, is an integral part of many of our courses at the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI). This practical component allows students to apply and expand their learning in a real-world setting, providing invaluable hands-on experience.

During your work placement, you will undertake tasks and be assessed on your performance, ensuring you develop and demonstrate the skills and knowledge you've acquired in your course. This experience not only enhances your learning but also helps you build professional connections that can be beneficial for your future career. Many of our students find work placement to be one of the most rewarding aspects of their education.

Yes, you can complete your practical training at more than one workplace. This flexibility allows you to gain diverse experiences and insights from different environments, enhancing your learning. However, we recommend limiting your placements to no more than two organizations to maintain a consistent learning experience.

When selecting your workplaces, ensure that your practical placement aligns with the species-specific unit you have chosen as your elective. Additionally, a signed 'Workplace Approval Form' is required for each placement to confirm its suitability for your studies.

Students at the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI) are assessed through a comprehensive Practical Task Portfolio during their work placement. This portfolio includes a logbook and practical assessments such as workplace assignments, which may involve case studies, photographs, written descriptions of workplace procedures, and video evidence of practical tasks. These assessments are designed to evaluate how effectively students can apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

Each unit also features Practical Task Worksheets that outline specific tasks to be completed during the placement. Supervisors sign off on each task once it is successfully completed. All practical assessments, including the signed worksheets, must be submitted via our online learning platform for evaluation by our tutors. Additionally, students must maintain an attendance record signed by their supervisor to verify the completion of required placement hours. Regular feedback from supervisors is collected and shared with students to ensure continuous improvement and skill development.

If you are already working in a role that aligns with your field of study, you may be able to complete your work placement with your existing employer, provided they agree. This option is viable if your current workplace can fulfill all the requirements of the Structured Workplace Learning component of your course. If it cannot, you will need to complete the necessary hours elsewhere. Additionally, your work placement must be supervised by a suitably qualified individual who has been approved by the National Skills Training Institute.

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Yes, you can volunteer at an organisation for your work placement for an animal qualification. Many of our Animal Studies and Animal Care students complete their required hours in a voluntary position, whether at an animal or wildlife shelter or an animal-related business.

Before starting your work placement, you will need to submit a Workplace Supervisor Form. Once we receive this form, our teaching team will assess the organisation to ensure it meets the workplace criteria for your course. This process helps ensure you gain relevant and valuable experience in a suitable environment.

Online Study

Online learning at NSTI offers flexibility and convenience that sets it apart from traditional classroom-based courses. With online study, you have the freedom to learn from anywhere—there's no need to be physically present on campus. You can simply log on to our online learning portal, to access all your learning materials and assessment tasks.

Additionally, our online courses are designed without set deadlines, allowing you to build your knowledge and skills at your own pace, as long as you complete your course by the specified expiry date. This self-paced learning model accommodates your personal schedule, making it easier to balance your studies with other commitments.

If you’re new to studying or haven’t done so in a while, it’s natural to feel uncertain about online learning. However, online study is designed to be accessible and flexible, making it a great option for almost everyone.

At NSTI, we provide all your learning materials and assessments through our online campus, so everything you need is in one convenient place. With just a computer and internet connection, you can start your learning journey. Plus, our dedicated Student Support team is here to assist you with any questions, time management tips, or study advice you might need.

With the introduction of our custom-designed learning platform, you can complete your coursework using a computer, laptop, tablet, or even a mobile device. Our platform is mobile responsive and user-friendly, allowing you to study anywhere, anytime.

All coursework is automatically saved, providing you with the flexibility to continue your studies without interruption. Whether you use a laptop or tablet, you’ll have a seamless and engaging learning experience.

At the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), our online courses are designed to be accessible to individuals with varying levels of computer proficiency, from beginners to advanced users. Basic computing skills you will need include the ability to create, save, and edit documents, access and search the web, and upload and save documents.

While these are the essential skills, having additional abilities can enhance your learning experience. These include participating in online discussions and webinars, uploading documents through websites, compressing image files, and creating different file types such as Word documents and PDFs. If you’re comfortable with these tasks, you’ll be well-prepared to succeed in our online courses.

Online study offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to learn when and where it suits you best. By delivering course materials through a customized online learning platform, students can avoid the need for travel to a physical campus, saving both time and money. This flexibility is particularly advantageous for those balancing family, work, or personal commitments, as it enables the creation of a personalized study schedule that fits their unique lifestyle.

Moreover, online study promotes independent learning, catering to various learning preferences and paces. Students can choose alternative study methods that align with their individual learning processes, whether that means working independently or taking more time to absorb content. This mode of learning is ideal for those who need to manage other responsibilities alongside their education and prefer a more self-directed approach to developing their skills.

Recognised Prior Learning

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) is a process used by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) in Australia to assess and formally acknowledge the skills, knowledge, and experience that an individual has acquired through previous education, work, and life experiences. RPL allows individuals to gain credit towards a qualification without having to complete the entire coursework. This process helps to avoid redundancy in learning, enabling learners to fast-track their education and reduce the time and cost required to achieve a formal qualification. By recognising the value of their prior learning, RPL ensures that individuals receive the qualifications they deserve based on their existing competencies.

Credit Transfer is a process that allows students to receive formal recognition for the competencies they have previously achieved through other accredited education or training programs. At the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), we acknowledge the qualifications and units of competency you have completed elsewhere, ensuring that your prior learning and achievements are not duplicated. This means you can progress through your course more efficiently, avoiding unnecessary repetition and potentially reducing the time and cost required to complete your qualification. To apply for a Credit Transfer, simply provide your certified transcripts and relevant documentation when you enroll, and our team will assess your eligibility based on national guidelines.

To apply for credit transfer at the National Skills Training Institute (NSTI), you need to provide certified copies of your previous qualifications and transcripts, which will be assessed by our academic team. Once submitted, our team will review your application and determine the eligibility of your previous studies for credit transfer. This process ensures that you receive recognition for your past learning and can progress through your course more efficiently.