The GTA Handler's Course is an exciting opportunity to take your ethical, science-backed, non-coercive gundog training to the next level. It is for gundog handlers of all abilities, with any breed of gundog, looking to improve their training skills and develop their understanding of learning theory.
The Gundog Trainers Academy Handler's Course is suitable for you, if you...
- Have a gundog of any breed, any age and any ability
- Are looking to learn more about gundog training
- Want to improve your overall dog training skills
- Want to dive into understanding more about learning theory
- Are wondering if positive reinforcement only methods can really work with gundogs
- Have a pet gundog and would like to use gundog training to enrich their life and harness their natural hunting and retrieving instincts
- Would like to work your gundog in the field and want to experience a shoot day and gain an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of working gundogs
- Are working towards your Gundog Club Graded Field Tests (G1-G5) and/or Kennel Club Working Gundog Certificate
- Want to explore the Clicker Trainers Competency Assessment Programme (CAP)
- Are committed to taking your training further in the future and would like to one day enrol on our Teacher's Course
Modules one to three of Surrey Handler's Course will take place in Haslemere and Loxwood, with module four held at the Clicker Gundog Training Centre in Worcestershire. The dates for 2025 are as follows:
- Module One - 7th to 9th April 2025 (Surrey)
- Module Two - 9th to 11th June 2025 (Surrey)
- Module Three - 28th to 30th July 2025 (Surrey)
- Module Four - 20th to 22nd October 2025 (Worcestershire)
Depending on where you live and availability, you might be more suited to our Worcestershire-based Handler's Course. Click here for dates and more information.
The Handler's Course covers everything you need to train a gundog.
The contents of each module will be tailored to those attending the course. Generally, Module One focuses more on the theory, and will help you to understand how dogs learn and how we can use clicker training to effectively communicate with our dogs and teach them the skills they need. There will still be plenty of practical handling too.
In Module Four, there will also be the opportunity to attend a live game training day at the Clicker Gundog shoot, which has been set up and managed for the sole purpose of training. You will be able to participate in beating or picking up with your dog, depending on their breed and your preference. You will also learn about shooting etiquette and how to prepare game for the table.
During the Handler's Course, you will be invited to take your Clicker Trainers Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) Level 1. This was developed by Kay Laurence at Learning About Dogs, and it is with her permission that we can assess our students and provide pass, merit or distinction certificates.
From 2024, students wishing to join the GTA Teacher's Course will be required to pass their Clicker Trainers Competency Assessment Programme (CAP) Level 1, as well as needing to complete the full Handler's Course. There is no fee for this while you are on the course. If you wish to be assessed after the course has ended there will be a £25 assessment fee which includes a certificate. For more information on CAP and to see what is required for Level 1, please click here.
There will also be the opportunity to take one of The Gundog Club Field Tests with your dog. Prior to the start of the course, we would suggest you find out more about The Gundog Club grades to help you understand what the requirements are for each level and breed group.
On one evening per module, we go out to a local dog-friendly pub for an early meal, which is a good opportunity to relax and get to know each other in a more social setting.
Students booked onto our in-person courses also receive 10% off our online membership. If you would like to join the membership, please email members@gundogtrainersacademy.co.uk after enrolling on this course.
NOTE: If you choose to secure your place by paying the £500 deposit today, the remaining balance of £2,000 is to be paid in full at least one month before the beginning of the course. Payment plans are available, subject to a 5% administration fee. Please contact members@gundogtrainersacademy.co.uk to arrange.
📸 Photography credit Alice Loder Photography
