Concord School of Grooming
If you love animals and are looking for a rewarding career in the pet care industry, the Concord School of Grooming in Knoxville, TN, is here to help you succeed. Our grooming school is the only one of its kind in Tennessee, offering advanced, hands-on training led by certified master groomers. With over 50 years of expertise, we provide the knowledge and skills needed to launch a successful career in professional pet grooming. Call us today at (865) 769-0598 to learn more about enrollment and start your journey toward becoming a certified groomer.
Why Choose Concord School of Grooming
Founded by Susan and David Porterfield, both American Kennel Club judges and professional handlers, the school was built on decades of experience in breeding, showing, and grooming. Their goal is to train students not only in grooming techniques but also in business practices, customer service, and professional ethics.
When you enroll at Concord School of Grooming, you’re learning from industry leaders who have bred and shown horses, cats, and dogs, and who are listed in the “Who’s Who of Dog Handling.” With this wealth of experience, students graduate confident and prepared to thrive in today’s competitive pet care market.
Hands-On Training From Day One
Unlike other schools where students spend weeks in a classroom before handling pets, our program begins with hands-on training the very first day. You’ll immediately start working with dogs and cats, learning brush-outs, nail trimming, ear care, bathing, fluff drying, scissoring techniques, and more. This approach ensures you gain practical skills quickly and effectively.
Our curriculum places a strong emphasis on
hand scissoring, a vital skill for groomers who want to excel in show-quality grooming and customized styling.
Course Details and Schedule
The Concord School of Grooming offers a comprehensive 12-week course designed to prepare students for careers as professional groomers.
Class Duration:
12 weeks
Schedule:
Tuesday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Start Dates:
New classes begin the first Tuesday of January, April, July, and October.
Tuition:
$9,000 (includes tuition, grooming tools, manuals, and smock)
Class sizes are limited to ensure personalized instruction and one-on-one guidance.
What You Will Learn
Our grooming program is designed to provide a thorough education in both grooming techniques and the business side of pet care. Training includes:
- Basic and advanced grooming skills for all dog and cat breeds
- Proper use and maintenance of grooming equipment
- Hand scissoring and breed-specific cuts
- Customer and client relationship management
- Business practices and shop management
- Safety protocols for pets and groomers
By the end of the course, students are proficient in grooming, handling, and client communication, ready to step into the workforce or start their own business.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Graduates of Concord School of Grooming enter one of the fastest-growing industries in the United States. While job placement cannot be guaranteed, our instructors assist students with career guidance, interview preparation, and resume support. Many graduates go on to:
- Work at established grooming salons
- Open their own grooming businesses
- Specialize in show grooming or competition styling
- Build careers in pet spas, boarding facilities, or veterinary clinics
With thousands of pet owners in need of professional grooming, opportunities are endless for skilled graduates.
Meet Susan Porterfield
Our co-founder,
Susan Porterfield, is a nationally recognized leader in the grooming industry. She was the first recipient of the
Silas Award presented by the National Association of Creative Professional Groomers in the United States. As president of Pet Stylists of Tennessee, Inc. since 2006 and chairman of the annual Grooming Trade Show and Competition in Knoxville, Susan has dedicated her career to advancing the grooming profession through education and excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need prior experience to enroll?
No experience is necessary. Our program is designed for beginners as well as those with some grooming knowledge.
What is included in the tuition?
Tuition includes grooming tools, manuals, and a grooming smock, so students are fully equipped from day one.
How many students are in each class?
Class sizes are limited to ensure quality instruction and personal attention.
What kind of jobs can I get after graduation?
Graduates find work in grooming salons, pet spas, and veterinary clinics or even open their own businesses.
Enroll in Our Grooming School Today
If you’re passionate about pets and ready to start a rewarding career, the Concord School of Grooming in Knoxville, TN, is the perfect place to begin. With hands-on training, expert instruction, and a history of excellence, we prepare students for long-term success in the pet care industry.
📞Call us today at (865) 769-0598 or email mrakita@bellsouth.net to request enrollment information. Take the first step toward becoming a professional groomer today!
