Train as a Field Guide in South Africa, with Bushwise

This course is run by Bushwise who are known for producing the some of the highest calibre graduates for the demanding hospitality industry within in South Africa's safari lodges. The academic curriculum is accredited by the Field Guide Association of Southern Africa (FGASA), the South Africa Qualifications Board and the Hospitality, Education and Sports Training Authority (THETA), the curriculum of which has been developed by accomplished industry experts.

The course has been designed to develop applicants into highly skilled professionals in the exciting area of field guiding and lodge management, by providing a well-rounded, specialised education which focuses not only on the theory but the practical aspects of guiding. In order to achieve this, the one-year course has been structured to allow the student to spend 6 months practical and academic training on campus and 6 months work experience at a 3 - 5 star rated lodge or research programme,

Training is maintained at a top academic and practical level through which we endeavour to produce high quality competent guides by offering training in guiding, bush knowledge and bush skills

The course varies between classroom based theory and practial sessions, the proportions of which depends on the module and course requirements, however over the six months an even balance is achieved.

An average day is as follows, dependant on season and logistics:

05h30 - 07h00 Meet in the kitchen for coffee and light breakfast, then depart for the morning game activity (either a walk or a drive), or a lecture in the classroom.

-11h00 Brunch
-12h00 Free time
-14h40 - 15h30 Afternoon game activity or lecture in the classroom

Bushwise has traversing rights to reserves in the area which contain dangerous game. They will be visited regularly as part of the practical training and skill development element of the course. The training also includes exposure to research activities, specialist guest speakers and regular day-trips into the famous Kruger National Park for additional practical exercises. Students are at the campus for 4 weeks at a time and then have 7 days off.

NB: During time off, students are welcome to stay at the campus but please note that food, laundry etc is NOT included during this time as the kitchen and cleaning staff will also be having time off.

Introduction to guiding in the natural environment
Creating a guided nature experience
Geology
Astronomy
Weather & climate
Ecology
Taxonomy
Introduction to the Biomes of Southern Africa
Botany & grasses
Arthropods
Amphibians
Reptiles
Fish
Birds
Mammals
Animal Behaviour
Conservation management & historical habitation

First Aid
General knowledge of South Africa
Reserve management and Ecotourism
Rifle Handling
4X4 Driving
Hosting

As you see there is a lot to cover and you must be prepared to be focused, dedicated and to put in the hours to reach the standard required to pass both the theory and practical assessments. Students will not be offered a placement if they have not passed the evaluations. Staff will assist and support you during the course but the motivation to learn needs to come from you, the student. So although the experiences you will have will be amazing, this is not a holiday. It is a training institution and we require dedicated and focused students for this course and this is something you should consider before signing up.