The Greyhound Board of Great Britain (GBGB) has launched a new, fully funded training course for GBGB-licensed kennelhands, aimed at enhancing their professional skills and promoting the highest standards of greyhound welfare.

Open to kennelhands of all experience levels, the course is designed to provide the specific skills and knowledge required for the day-to-day care of racing greyhounds within GBGB-licensed residential kennels.

Incorporated into the wider programme is the Level 2 Certificate of Technical Competence in Animal Health, Husbandry and Handling, meaning that learners who successfully complete the course will also receive a nationally recognised and transferable qualification that is recognised across the animal care sector. The delivery of this certificate is accredited by City & Guilds, a leading awarding body for vocational qualifications.

“This new course is a direct reflection of our ongoing commitment to both greyhound welfare and the professional development of our hardworking kennelhands,” said Meriel France, GBGB Education Manager.

“It will enhance their skills, deepen their knowledge, and give them the opportunity to earn a nationally recognised qualification at no cost. Expanding education opportunities is a key element of our welfare strategy, and I am incredibly pleased to offer this programme and support learners as they progress.”

Key modules in the programme include:

  • GBGB Rules of Racing, legislation, and professional responsibilities.
  • Housing, feeding, and hydration standards.
  • Disease prevention and promoting good health.
  • Greyhound behaviour and appropriate handling.
  • Routine care and husbandry tasks.

 

The course is completed entirely online and at the learner’s own pace. There are no formal exams or written assignments; assessment is conducted via a practical evaluation at the trainer’s kennels or an agreed-upon assessment site. Successful candidates will receive the City & Guilds Level 2 Certificate and 21 hours of GBGB-accredited CPD.

To qualify, applicants must be aged 16 or over, hold a current GBGB kennelhand licence, and have been employed full-time at a GBGB-licensed kennel for at least 12 weeks. This initiative is fully subsidised by GBGB, underlining its focus on upskilling the industry and strengthening care standards across the sport.

Interested kennelhands should speak with their employer (a GBGB-licensed trainer), who can contact GBGB Education Manager, Meriel France: meriel.france@gbgb.org.uk.