What Is Available and Where to Learn
Sheep shearing is a skilled agricultural trade that is essential for animal welfare, fiber quality, and flock management. In Canada, formal sheep shearing training is limited but well-supported through producer organizations, cooperative wool bodies, and provincial sheep associations. Most training is delivered in short, intensive, hands-on courses rather than through colleges or long-term certification programs.
Unlike other countries, Canada does not have a national certification or licensing system for sheep shearers.
Completion of a recognized shearing course offered by CCWG or a provincial association is widely accepted within the industry as proof of basic competency.
National Training Providers
Canadian Co-operative Wool Growers Limited (CCWG)
The Canadian Co-operative Wool Growers Limited (CCWG) is the national organization offering structured sheep shearing education in Canada. CCWG organizes beginner and, occasionally, advanced sheep shearing courses across Eastern and Western Canada, working closely with provincial sheep organizations to deliver hands-on training. Courses typically cover:
- Safe and efficient shearing patterns
- Sheep handling and positioning
- Equipment setup, maintenance, and grinding
- Wool handling and fleece preparation
- Biosecurity, animal health, and shearer ergonomics
Courses are usually limited to small groups to ensure a high instructor-to-student ratio and are taught by experienced professional shearers. Training dates and locations change annually based on regional demand.
Provincial Sheep Shearing Programs
Ontario
Ontario Sheep Farmers (OSF) in partnership with CCWG provides sheep shearing training opportunities. Shearing School for Beginners is offered regularly as a three-day, in-person course hosted at various Ontario locations.
Ontario Sheep Farmers also maintain an events calendar where upcoming shearing schools and related skills training are posted,
Western Canada (Alberta and Saskatchewan)
In Western Canada, sheep shearing training is delivered on a regional basis, often hosted by provincial organizations.
Alberta - Alberta Lamb Producers partners with CCWG to support shearing education and wool handling resources.
Saskatchewan - The Saskatchewan Sheep Development Board (SSDB) offers Beginner Shearing Schools, typically two-day intensive courses. Training focuses on core shearing techniques, sheep handling, and safety, with equipment often provided for participants.
Atlantic Canada
Shearing training in Atlantic Canada is available through workshops organized by provincial associations.
- The Sheep Producers Association of Nova Scotia hosts sheep shearing workshops to develop local capacity and support the regional wool industry.
To find a professional sheep shearer, a website exists that lists professional sheep sheers in Canada called Sheepshearing.ca.