It’s National Apprenticeship Week, and we’re excited to showcase some of our brilliant employers who are shaping the future of their industries. We recently spoke to Johnny and Karolina, the inspiring founders of SPA TIME Pets, a dog grooming business based in Horley, Surrey. They share their journey of building a premium grooming service with a strong focus on sustainability, professionalism, and the development of the next generation of groomers.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself, your history in the industry, and your business?
We’re Karolina and Johnny, the founders of SPA TIME Pets, a premium pet grooming and retail business dedicated to providing exceptional care for pets and their owners. Karolina has long experience in the pet grooming industry, including award-winning expertise in breed-specific grooming techniques. Johnny brings extensive business and operations expertise, enabling us to run a seamless, customer-centric operation.
SPA TIME Pets focuses on using natural, ethically sourced products and advanced grooming techniques to ensure every pet receives the safest, most comfortable experience. Our mission is to elevate the pet grooming industry by combining professionalism, sustainability, and empathy, making us a trusted partner for pet owners.
When did you first start hiring apprentices, and what motivated you to take this step?
We started hiring apprentices shortly after launching SPA TIME Pets. Our motivation was twofold: to address the growing demand for professional grooming services and to nurture the next generation of skilled groomers. Apprenticeships allow us to pass on our values, expertise, and passion for pet care to young professionals eager to learn and grow in this rewarding industry.
What benefits have you seen in your business from having apprentices on your team?
Having apprentices on our team has been incredibly rewarding. They bring fresh enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, which invigorates our entire team. Apprenticeships allow us to shape future groomers to align with our high standards and unique approach to pet care. Additionally, apprentices help us expand our capacity to meet customer demand while fostering a collaborative, growth-focused workplace culture.
How has your experience been working with Haddon Training?
Our experience with Haddon Training has been outstanding. From the start, their team has been supportive, professional, and committed to the success of both our apprentices and our business. The structured programs and resources you provide ensure that our apprentices gain valuable skills while contributing meaningfully to our operations. It’s been a pleasure partnering with an organisation that shares our dedication to quality and professional growth.
What advice would you give to an employer who is thinking about hiring an apprentice?
We’d encourage any employer to embrace apprenticeships as a long-term investment. Focus on creating a supportive and structured environment where apprentices can learn, grow, and thrive. Be patient and open to mentoring, as the benefits of training passionate individuals far outweigh the initial time and effort required. It’s an opportunity not only to expand your team but to contribute to the future of your industry.
Find out more about our equine and Dog Groomer qualifications here.
Are you a Dog Grooming business that is looking to hire an apprentice? Please get in touch with us here.
