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 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 four of the Handler's Course Worcestershire will take place at Kemble's Field near Pershore and Evesham. The dates for 2026 are as follows:
- Module One - 20th to 22nd April 2026
- Module Two - 15th to 17th June 2026
- Module Three - 10th to 12th August 2026
- Module Four - 12th to 14th October 2026
The course is held at Kemble's Field, Charlton, Worcestershire, WR10 3LQ. The purpose-built dog training facilities include a large indoor training area with classrooms, toilets and a kitchen. Outside, there is everything you could want for gundog training, including retrieving lanes, a jumping pen and fences, a large pond for water work, short grass and cover crops.
Hardstanding camping, with and without electric, is available on site and can be booked directly with Kemble's Field. Please email hello@kemblesfield.co.uk for details.
Depending on where you live and availability, you might be more suited to our Surrey-based Handler's Course. Please email members@gundogtrainersacademy.co.uk for 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 shoot experience day at the Kemble's Field shoot. 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.
Students wishing to go on 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.
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 £2,250 (£2,750 in total) is to be paid in full at least one month before the beginning of the course. If you would like to pay this in monthly instalments, please email members@gundogtrainersacademy.co.uk