Tracks, Kruger & Recoil...

Over the past week the students were assessed some more, as some went on their shooting assessments for the first time, some did the tracking course and others got the chance to visit the famous Kruger National Park. Lots of excitement!

There were also a lot of game-drives done between assessments, as the ones that weren’t on the rifle range, got the opportunity to do mock-assessments in regards to their game-drive skills. Here the students get the chance to conduct a game-drive, as they would when being assessed in regards to attaining their FGASA Level One qualification. This is the opportunity to practically implement the knowledge that they have acquired over the past few months. After each drive the trainer give feedback on areas of possible improvement regarding certain subject matter. This is a very effective way of preparing the students for their upcoming practical assessment during the next term.

The trips to the Kruger National Park were a welcome break from all the assessments, as the students had the chance to kick back and enjoy a full day of game viewing in the park. Here we were met by elephants, elephants and more elephants, as the park does not have a shortage of these majestic creatures! We also got to enjoy a variety of different birds and trees that don't necessarily occur on Makalali. The long, hot day was concluded in perfect fashion, as we were rewarded with a lion sighting 10 kilometers from the gate, right before we left the park. We couldn’t have asked for a better ending!

There is also a lot of excitement in camp, as the students are concluding the academic quarter and are embarking on various exiting journeys for their off-week. These journeys include trips as far as Europe for some, and for the others, holiday destinations all around South Africa. This is a well-deserved break for all, as when they come back for the final quarter, it will be full steam ahead with academics, their level one exam, as well as their practical assessments. This is what we have been working towards! Have a great holiday!

Willie and the Bushwise Team