Growing Together: How Apprenticeships Have Made a Difference at Leafields Dog Retreat
At Leafields Dog Retreat, investing in people has become an important part of the business, helping team members build confidence, develop their skills and achieve their career goals. Claire and her team have embraced KEITS apprenticeships to support both new starters and experienced employees, recognising that everyone learns differently and that gaining qualifications can make a real difference to individuals, the team and the standard of care provided to the dogs.
From Leafields to the RAF
Amelie was Leafields’ first apprentice, enrolling on her Level 2 Animal Care apprenticeship in September 2024 and achieving a Distinction. Although her career plans took an unexpected direction, the support she received from Leafields and KEITS helped her complete her qualification before joining the RAF. Amelie explained that the apprenticeship helped her understand how she learns best, build her confidence and develop skills that continue to benefit her today. She now travels abroad working in aircraft security and believes the experience and support she received during her apprenticeship helped prepare her for this new chapter.
Developing Skills and Leadership
Jodie, who has been part of Leafields since 2020, completed her Level 3 Animal Management apprenticeship with a Distinction. Building on her existing hands-on experience, the programme helped her deepen her knowledge of animal welfare, behaviour, legislation and best practice, while strengthening her confidence and leadership skills. Jodie has been able to apply her learning directly to her role, support colleagues and contribute to the high standards of care at Leafields. She believes the apprenticeship has demonstrated what can be achieved with the right support, dedication and willingness to learn.
Building Confidence for the Future
Ezme joined Leafields in October 2025 to undertake her Level 2 Animal Care apprenticeship and is approaching her End-Point Assessment. She has praised KEITS for providing enjoyable, interesting lessons and friendly guidance throughout her training. The programme has also given her new ideas for dog enrichment and helped her grow in confidence, both in her practical role and with her coursework. Following successful completion, Ezme is set to join the Leafields team permanently.
Amber has also chosen the apprenticeship route after switching from a full-time college animal care course, which included one day a week of work placement, to a full-time Level 2 Animal Care apprenticeship. She has found the practical, workplace-based learning experience a better fit for her and values the opportunity to develop her skills through everyday experience alongside structured training.
Discovering New Opportunities Within the Business
Apprenticeships have also helped Leafields develop skills beyond animal care. Tamsin joined the business in 2023 and completed a Level 2 Customer Service apprenticeship to build on her existing experience. She explained that her friendly tutor helped her develop confidence across a range of areas, while the course gave her a greater understanding of customer service and how to put it into practice. Tamsin now manages Leafields’ social media pages, having developed stronger relationships with customers and gained the confidence to take on new responsibilities.
A Positive Impact on the Whole Team
For Claire and the team at Leafields, the benefits extend far beyond individual qualifications. Apprenticeships have helped broaden the team’s knowledge, reinforce the importance of professional standards within the pet care industry and encourage staff to share what they learn with colleagues. The training supports high standards in areas such as animal welfare, preventative healthcare, infection control and safety, helping ensure the dogs receive the best possible care.
Having previously offered work placements to university students, veterinary professionals and veterinary physiotherapists, Claire recognised the value of supporting people as they develop their careers. With some placement students going on to become employees, offering in-house training and recognised qualifications felt like a natural next step.
Leafields’ experience demonstrates how apprenticeships can benefit everyone involved: giving individuals the opportunity to grow, helping employers develop a knowledgeable and confident workforce, and supporting the next generation of animal care professionals. With KEITS providing structured training alongside practical workplace experience, Leafields is continuing to invest in its people and the future of the pet care industry.
KEITS would like to take this opportunity to thank Leafields for the incredible opportunities they continue to offer.