Our Philosophy

Raising the Standard of Grooming Education.

Set in a charming, purpose-built modern barn, Barking Barn Academy offers a welcoming, professional, and fun environment for animal lovers.

Book a Campus Visit arrow_forward
Our Story

From a Thriving Salon to a Premier Academy

Barking Barn began as a premium local dog grooming salon. Driven by a deep love for dogs and a commitment to exceptional styling, we quickly built a 5-star reputation and a fully booked diary. However, as we looked to expand, we noticed a massive gap in the industry: many new groomers had certificates, but lacked the practical, real-world skills to safely and efficiently groom pets in a live salon environment.

We created Barking Barn Academy to bridge that gap. We transformed our countryside barn into a dual-purpose facility: a high-end salon and an elite training center.

Come and See the Barn arrow_forward
Inside the Barking Barn grooming studio with professional equipment and wooden beams
The Perfect Place to Learn

Why Students Love the Barn

group

Small Group Sizes

Max 4 students per class ensuring you get the individual attention you deserve to master your skills.

content_cut

Hands-on Learning

90% practical work on real dogs from day one. Build confidence through doing, not just watching.

nature_people

Tranquil Rural Setting

Learn in our relaxed, modern barn studio away from city noise. A better environment for you and the dogs.

Want to see all of this for yourself?

Book a Taster Day arrow_forward
Meet Your Mentors

Your Instructors

You will be taught by working professionals who are actively grooming, managing clients, and running a business every single day.

Tara

Lead Instructor
Grooming Educator & Canine Hydrotherapist

Tara's connection with dogs is deeply personal, rooted in a childhood spent on a family farm. Her career began in canine hydrotherapy before a natural transition into dog grooming — where, upon qualifying, she was immediately invited to stay on as a teacher. With over 10 years of experience, she specialises in breed standard trims (Poodles, Westies, and full-feathered breeds) and advanced handling for puppies and feistier temperaments.

verified 10+ Years Exp
school Breed Standard Specialist

Mia

Instructor
Award-Winning Groomer & Canine Behaviour Specialist

An award-winning groomer, Mia spent over a decade competing in Flyball, eventually representing Team GB on the international stage. Qualifying professionally in 2021, she is a specialist in canine behaviour with extensive experience supporting nervous rescue dogs. Having built and ran her own grooming business, Mia specialises in pet trims, teddy bear styles, Asian Fusion, and behavioural grooming.

verified Team GB Flyball
emoji_events Award-Winning Groomer

Want to meet Tara and Mia before you commit?

Ask Our Instructors a Question chat
Student Success Stories

Hear from Those Who Started Here

format_quote
Emma R., Barking Barn Academy Class of 2022 graduate
Emma R.Class of '22
"I was so nervous to start, but Tara made me feel at ease instantly. The small class size meant I never felt lost. I'm now running my own mobile grooming van!"
format_quote
David K., Barking Barn Academy Class of 2023 graduate
David K.Class of '23
"The location is stunning. It doesn't feel like a classroom, it feels like a retreat. Learning here was the best investment I've made in myself."
format_quote
Lisa M., Barking Barn Academy Class of 2021 graduate
Lisa M.Class of '21
"Mia's guidance on handling nervous dogs was a game changer for me. I use the techniques I learned at Barking Barn every single day in my salon."

Ready to join the Barking Barn family?

Join us at the Barn and turn your passion for dogs into a professional skill. Spaces are limited to ensure quality training.

Contact Us TodayView Courses