By submitting an application for, or enrolling in, a Bushwise Course, you confirm that you accept and agree to be bound by these Terms. This includes where you enrol in a Bushwise Online Course and later choose to attend an In-Person Course, and where you attend a graduation in respect of a Bushwise Course (insofar as the Terms apply to you).

By submitting an application for, or enrolling in, a Bushwise Course, you enter into a binding legal agreement with Bushwise UK Limited (“Bushwise”).

If your Bushwise Course includes any IFGA qualification, assessment or exam, you also agree to be bound by the IFGA Terms.

Please read these Terms carefully, and do not hesitate to ask us any questions before you complete your application. Words with capital letters have the meanings given to them in the “Definitions” clause at the start of Section A.

WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO AMEND THESE TERMS AT ANY TIME. All amendments to these Terms will be posted online. Please make sure you check regularly to see if any amendments have been made.

These Terms are separated into 5 sections, namely:

• Section A: General 

• Section B: Bushwise Professional Courses

• Section C: Bushwise Online Courses

• Section D: Bushwise Experiences 

• Section E: Bushwise Short Courses

 

SECTION A: GENERAL

DEFINITIONS

In these Terms, the following words have the meanings set out below:

• “Bushwise”, “we”, “us” and “our” means Bushwise UK Limited.
• “Bushwise Wildlife Careers” means [Bushwise Wildlife Careers (Pty) Ltd], which provides accommodation and receives certain payments in South Africa as set out in these Terms.
• “Participant” and “you” means any person who applies for, enrols in or takes part in a Bushwise Course.
• “South African Participant” means a Participant who holds South African citizenship or permanent residency.
• “International Participant” means a Participant who does not hold South African citizenship or permanent residency.
• “the Terms” means these terms and conditions, as amended from time to time.
• “Bushwise Course” means any Bushwise Professional Course, Bushwise Short Course, Bushwise Experience or Bushwise Online Course.
• “Bushwise Professional Course” means any of the 6 to 12-month courses set out in Section B, namely the IFGA Professional Safari Guide Course, Practical Game Management Course, Practical Wildlife Tourism Course and Practical Conservation Management Course, including any Placement.
• “Bushwise Short Course” means any of the short courses set out in Section E.
• “Bushwise Experience” means any of the experiences set out in Section D, including the Advanced Safari.
• “Bushwise Online Course” means any of the online courses set out in Section C.
• “In-Person Course” means any Bushwise Professional Course, Bushwise Short Course or Bushwise Experience.
• “Campus” means any property owned, operated or used by Bushwise to deliver a Bushwise Course.
• “Start Date” means the date on which your Bushwise Course begins, as confirmed to you in writing by Bushwise.
• “Course Fees” means the total fees payable for your Bushwise Course, as confirmed to you in writing by Bushwise, excluding any accommodation fees payable to Bushwise Wildlife Careers.
• “Placement” means an unpaid, practical internship or work experience of 6 months, arranged by Bushwise with a Placement Organisation or at a Bushwise Campus, as set out in Section B.
• “Placement Organisation” means any lodge, reserve, game farm, tourism operation or other organisation, in South Africa or abroad, at which a Placement takes place.
• “Employment Guarantee” means the employment guarantee set out in Section B, subject to the conditions set out there.
• “Force Majeure” means any event or circumstance beyond Bushwise’s reasonable control. This includes but is not limited to:
  • natural disasters, flooding, fire, drought and extreme weather;
  • epidemics, pandemics and outbreaks of disease;
  • war, terrorism, civil unrest and political instability;
  • strikes and industrial action;
  • the closure of borders, airports, roads or reserves;
  • changes in law, visa or immigration rules;
  • any action, restriction or advice issued by a government or public authority; and
  • the failure of any third-party supplier or Placement Organisation for any of these reasons.
• “IFGA” means the International Field Guide Association, and “IFGA Terms” means IFGA’s terms and conditions.
• “CATHSSETA” means the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority.
• “SASSETA” means the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority.
• “FGASA” means the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa.
• “Qualifying Programme” means any Bushwise Professional Course, the IFGA Professional Safari Guide Short Course or the IFGA Professional Safari & Trails Guide Short Course.
• “Completion Date” means the date on which you complete your Bushwise Course, including any Placement.
• “PrDP” means a South African Professional Driving Permit.

Interpretation

In these Terms:

• headings are for convenience only and do not affect the meaning of the Terms;
• words in the singular include the plural, and vice versa;
• “including” and “include” mean “including but not limited to”;
• “in writing” includes email; and
• where a section of the Terms applies to a specific Bushwise Course and conflicts with Section A, the course-specific section will prevail.

OUR SERVICES

Bushwise agrees to organise and deliver the Bushwise Course(s) and other components, such as the course Placement, as agreed upon in writing between you and Bushwise from time to time. Our services for purposes of the Bushwise In-Person Course(s) include, but are not limited to:

• Arranging full pre-departure briefings on the telephone and/or via email;

• Arranging food while the course is in session where indicated in course briefing materials;

• Arranging for transfers to and from the airport where indicated in course briefing materials;

• Arranging course instructors to lead and deliver courses, where required;

• Arranging the provision of course equipment, training and training materials relevant to the course;

• Providing a 24-hour emergency desk; and

• Providing international travel assistance and advice.

 

Our services for purposes of the Bushwise Online Courses include, but are not limited to:

• The use of the associated Learning Management System (LMS) on Moodle;

• Access to the website located at https://go.bushwise.guide;

• Services and course content located at our custom domains on Moodle.com; and

• Providing instructors, teaching assistants, career counsellors, student success managers, and practitioners (“Instructors”) to offer curricula in a variety of areas around sustainable development, leadership development, field guiding and conservation.

Please note that the course details reflected on our website and in our enrollment materials are subject to change, depending on availability. Bushwise reserves the right to make changes to your Bushwise Course (including but not limited to changes to the course locations and/or campus) or substitute course activities with activities of a similar nature or merit. We will do our utmost to keep you updated on any changes prior to your course commencement, where possible.

Any information we provide, including, but not limited to information about visas, vaccinations, healthcare, climate, baggage, group sizes and special equipment is given in good faith for informational purposes only. We do not hold ourselves out to be experts in all of these fields and suggest that external advice is obtained, if you deem it necessary to do so.

REFUSAL OF SERVICE

Bushwise reserves the right to refuse your application to join a Bushwise Course, at any time, for any reason whatsoever (which reason need not be communicated to you).

ACCOMMODATION

Bushwise Wildlife Careers (Pty) Ltd (“Bushwise Wildlife Careers”) offers convenient accommodation for Bushwise In-Person Courses (and other purposes). Please indicate when you apply for a Bushwise In PersonCourse if you do not wish to book accommodation with Bushwise Wildlife Careers for the duration of your course.

If you choose to book accommodation with Bushwise Wildlife Careers:

• you will enter into a binding legal agreement with Bushwise Wildlife Careers, and the terms below relating to liability, personal risk, privacy, security, complaints, discipline, weapons, animals, equipment, and furniture will apply to your contract with Bushwise Wildlife Careers, with any necessary changes made.

• you may make payment of the accommodation fees into Bushwise’s bank account (if you are making payment of your Course Fees into this bank account), in which event the payment obligation between you and Bushwise Wildlife Careers will be fulfilled. Alternatively, payment of your accommodation fees can be paid to Bushwise Wildlife Careers by debit card, credit card or bank (EFT) transfer.

APPLICATION PROCESS

When you apply for a Bushwise Course, you will be asked to provide us with the following information (where applicable depending on your course):

• Legal name

• Phone Number

• Email/Physical Address

• Date of Birth

• Educational qualifications

• Driving licence and/or qualifications

• Criminal history

• Medical history – including mental health, current medications, vaccination status, and any medical requirements

• Dietary requirements

• Citizenship & country of residence

• Accommodation information (if you do not choose to book accommodation with Bushwise Wildlife Careers (Pty) Ltd).

You confirm that all information that you provide during the application process is complete and correct. You must update Bushwise if this information changes prior to your course commencement or during your participation in the course. Failure to provide complete, accurate and up to date information on your application will be grounds for the cancellation of your Bushwise Course, without refund.

DOCUMENTS & ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Insurance

If you are an International Participant, Bushwise strongly recommends that you take out the insurance offered by Bushwise, as it has been selected to cover all activities included in your In-Person Course.

The following requirements apply to all South African Participants, and to International Participants who choose not to take out Bushwise’s insurance or who already hold their own insurance:

• If you are a South African Participant: you will be required to show proof of your medical insurance/aid and medical evacuation cover. Your medical cover must include coverage for exposure/infection of certain viruses, as may be communicated to you by us from time to time, and cover the entire duration of your In-Person Course (which includes your Placement, if applicable).
• If you are an International Participant: you are required to secure travel and medical insurance policies to protect you against losses caused by travel, loss or damage of baggage and/or personal effects by any means, non-refundable airfare, emergency medical evacuation and other medical expenses including medical coverage for exposure/infection of certain viruses (as may be communicated to you). The policies must cover the entire duration of your In-Person Course.
• Regardless of your nationality: your insurance must cover you for all activities you will undertake on your In-Person Course, including but not limited to:
  • advanced rifle handling;
  • the use of live ammunition;
  • working in environments with dangerous animals;
  • off road 4×4 driving; and
  • work with animals and wildlife, including sleepouts.
• Regardless of your nationality: it is strongly recommended that you purchase trip cancellation cover to protect yourself against losses relating to your inability to join your In-Person Course for medical reasons or if someone in your family takes ill or dies suddenly, as our “Cancellation & Refunds” and “Transfer” policies (as outlined below) will apply to these instances.

The details of your insurance policies, including proof that your cover meets the requirements above, must be provided to us prior to the commencement of your In-Person Course, for your protection. Bushwise reserves the right to refuse your participation in any activity, or in your Bushwise Course, until acceptable proof of insurance has been received, and no refund or credit will be issued in such circumstances.

Criminal Background Check

If you are not a South African citizen, and your Bushwise In-Person Course is 6 or 12 months in length, then you will need to undergo a criminal background check at your own expense to obtain the required student visa from the authorities.

If you are a South African citizen, please note that undergoing a criminal background check may assist you, if you would like to obtain a professional driving permit from the South African Department of Transport (the costs for which you will be liable).

For purposes of Bushwise Short Courses, you may be required to supply a criminal check at your own expense. A failure to disclose any known criminal history in advance is grounds for cancellation of our Bushwise Short Course without refund.

Further information on criminal background checks can be obtained from our Admissions Team.

Health & Medical Forms

• A medical form will be provided at the time of booking and must be completed at least 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the Bushwise In-Person Course. As per the “Application Process” clause above, failure to disclose any known medical conditions is grounds for cancellation of your Bushwise In-Person Course, without refund.

• Bushwise reserves the right to request a negative test and/or screen for certain viruses and/or require Participants to quarantine at their own expense where a test for a virus is positive, as may be recommended by the World Health Organisation from time to time. Bushwise staff will support Participants who are required to quarantine by providing them with suitable accommodation recommendations and daily check ins throughout their quarantine period.

• Bushwise cannot guarantee you will not become infected by certain viruses. You release Bushwise, its employees, owners and partners of any liability with respect to any bodily injury, illness, death, medical treatment, or property damage that may arise from exposure to a virus related to, or in connection with, your participation on a Bushwise In-PersonCourse, except where personal injury has been caused by Bushwise’s negligence.

• Bushwise staff are not medical professionals, and the standards of medical care in South Africa, and in the areas where Bushwise and Placement partners operate, may be lower than you may be used to. You, and your primary care physician, are responsible for ensuring that you are able to manage your own mental and physical well-being, including administering any medication, for the entirety of your Bushwise In-Person Course.

• It is your responsibility to visit a local travel clinic and ensure that you have any necessary vaccines or medications for the full duration of your Bushwise In-Person Course.

• Bushwise reserves the right to require documentation from a doctor or specialist and/or to consult with our own medical and mental health professionals regarding your physical and mental fitness to undertake a Bushwise In-Person Course (including a Placement).

• If Bushwise staff have any concerns about your physical or mental health during your Bushwise In-Person Course, they have a right to refer you to their own medical or mental health professional for further assessment.

• Bushwise reserves the right to reject or cancel a booking, curtail your Bushwise In-Person Course or refuse to provide you with a Placement, on the grounds of your or our doctor’s comments or advice. In any of these cases, you will not be entitled to a refund or credit. Any additional medical assessments or documentation that we may require from you will be at your own expense.

• Bushwise reserves the right to share your medical history, including any documentation you have provided us, and/or the assessments of our own medical or mental health care professionals, with any potential placement partners.

• Your Bushwise In-Person Course may take place in a malarial area and you may need to take prophylactics. We suggest that you consult with your doctor for guidance in this regard before you arrive.

Emergency Contact

Prior to the Commencement of your Bushwise In-Person Course, you must supply us with the emergency contact details of two friends or family members. We reserve the right to contact this person should we deem it necessary to do so (and you warrant that they have consented to you providing us with their contact information).

Driving License and skills assessment

To drive the Bushwise vehicles (if applicable for purposes of your Bushwise Course), you must:

• have a valid, manual drivers licence;

• have at least 1 year of manual driving experience; and

• be able to demonstrate to us your ability to safely drive a 4×4 vehicle.

You will be assessed by Bushwise staff on your driving ability at the beginning of your course. The results of the assessment will be final and will not be subject to appeal. Should you fail this assessment, you will not be permitted to drive Bushwise’s vehicles and will automatically not pass your CATHSSETA NQF2 Nature Site Guide Practical Assessment. By not passing your practical assessment, you will not qualify for a placement.

Other documentation

In order to comply with local visa and permit requirements, you may also be required to provide additional documentation including, but not limited to, education certificates, passport/ID copies, and flight arrival and departure information. A full list will be provided to you at the time of booking. If this information is not provided by the deadline stipulated at the time of booking, Bushwise may have to cancel your booking without refund.

VISAS & PASSPORTS

It is your responsibility to ensure you have (and maintain) any necessary visas and a valid passport for your course. With the exception of Participants attending the 2-month IFGA Professional Safari Guide Short Course, certain other Bushwise Short Courses as communicated to you, and certain Bushwise Experiences, Bushwise requires all international Participants partaking in a Bushwise Professional Course (and certain Bushwise Short Course’s as communicated to you by a Bushwise staff member) to hold a South African Study Visa. You will be required to apply for this visa at the South African Embassy in your home country. It is your responsibility to ensure you meet the requirements to obtain this visa. Bushwise recommends you contact your local embassy a minimum of 12 weeks prior to your course commencement to ensure you have the necessary paperwork to obtain your visa within the required time. Bushwise will not accommodate Participants who arrive to the course late due to visa delays. Any visa information provided by Bushwise is done in good faith and Bushwise cannot be held responsible for South Africa’s decision to change visa rules, deny a visa application, refuse entry, exit or the right of passage. We bear no liability for any losses you may incur arising from any such action.

FEES

Bushwise’s current Course Fees are displayed on the website and are subject to change without notice. What is included in your course fee will be displayed on the Fact Sheet which is downloadable from the Bushwise Courses’s page on our website. Your total course fee will be outlined in your acceptance email from us, where applicable (subject line “Congratulations! What’s Next?”).

From time to time, Bushwise’s Admissions Managers may arrange for the award of grants or scholarships. These are awarded at the Bushwise Foundation’s discretion and are non-transferable.

Bushwise accepts payments in GBP (Pound Sterling), USD (United States Dollars), EUR (Euros), CAD (Canadian Dollars), AUD (Australian Dollars) and ZAR (South African Rand). Currency exchange rates are set at Bushwise’s discretion and do not necessarily reflect current market exchange rates. You will be quoted in the currency of your home country (e.g. country of current permanent residence) and are not eligible to pay in other currencies. In the event Bushwise does not offer the currency of your home country, you will pay as follows:

• If your home country is in the European Union, not including the United Kingdom, you will pay in Euros (EUR). This includes countries that are not part of the eurozone;

• If your home country is in sub-Saharan Africa, as defined by the United Nations, you will pay in South African Rand (ZAR);

• If your home country is in New Zealand you will pay in Australian Dollars (AUD); and

• If your home country is outside of the countries and locations defined above, you will pay in GBP.

Unless agreed upon in writing by special arrangement (or as otherwise may be specified under the relevant Bushwise Course section below), you may select one of the following payment plans:

Full payment upfront:

• You’ll pay the full cost of your booking in one payment to confirm your course. The payment is due upon acceptance onto the course.

Flexible installments:

• A non-refundable deposit (as communicated to you by Bushwise) will be due upon acceptance onto the Bushwise Course to confirm your place.
• A payment schedule will be created to cover the remaining balance of your Course Fees.

Bushwise accepts payments by debit card, credit card or bank (EFT) transfer. In the event you pay by credit/debit card, Bushwise reserves the right to charge any subsequent payments to that same card on the date they are due. In the event that you pay by EFT from a South African bank account, you may make payment into Bushwise Wildlife Careers’s South African bank account, in which event the payment obligation between you and Bushwise will be fulfilled.

In the event payments are not received by their due date, Bushwise reserves the right to charge an additional sum of up to ZAR 1,000.00 / GBP 50.00 (or equivalent) per payment instalment that is 7 days or more overdue, or cancel your booking, without any refund.

CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS

Force Majeure

Bushwise reserves the right to cancel or curtail a Bushwise Course for reasons of Force Majeure.

In cases of cancellation due to Force Majeure, your Course Fees will remain non-refundable and you will receive credit for the amount you have paid to use towards an alternative Start Date.

In cases of curtailment due to Force Majeure, your first recourse will be to claim the balance of your course fee from your insurance provider. If the reason for curtailment is not covered by your insurance policy, Bushwise will provide the Participant with credit to complete the remaining duration of your course or Placement at a later date.

Bushwise reserves the right to provide substitute courses or placements, at its discretion. The use of a Participant’s credit will be subject to course or placement availability. Credit is non transferable and not redeemable for cash.

Cancellation/Curtailment by Bushwise

In all other cases where Bushwise cancels the course:

• Bushwise will offer you a credit for your Course Fees paid to use on another Start Date or alternative Bushwise Course. Use of your course credit will be subject to availability. Credit is non transferable and not redeemable for cash. 

• Should you decline the offer of course credit, Bushwise will offer you a refund of your Course Fees paid.
  The refund will be made back to the original method of payment. If that card or account is no longer valid, you must provide Bushwise with updated payment details for an account in your name All refunds incur a processing fee for each payment that is refunded and can take up to 180 days to process in full.

• Bushwise will not refund you for any expenses incurred by you related to your course, including, but not limited to, airfare, visa expenses, insurance, documentation and equipment purchases. Please note this list is not exhaustive.

Cancellation/Curtailment by the Participant

The terms applicable where you cancel or curtail your Bushwise Course differ depending on your chosen payment plan.

Instalment Payment Plans

If you selected an instalment payment plan and you then cancel or curtail your Bushwise Course (including any placement and/or any graduation, trails guides course or any other bookings of any nature made with Bushwise) for any reason, then:

• any Course Fees or other amounts paid by you or on your behalf will be non-refundable;

• an amount of R40,000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying or such other cancellation fee amount as may be communicated to you by Bushwise in writing), less any payments already made to us, will be due by you to us upon cancellation or curtailment; and

• Bushwise will offer you a credit for your Course Fees paid to use on another Start Date or alternative Bushwise Course. Use of your course credit will be subject to availability. Credit is non transferable and not redeemable for cash.

(I.e., if you have paid to us a deposit of R15,000 and cancel your Bushwise Course, the R15,000 will be non-refundable and you will be liable to make a further payment to us in the amount of R25,000 (being R40,000 less R15,000).

Full Payment Upfront 

If you chose to pay the full fees for your Bushwise Course upfront and you then cancel or curtail your Bushwise Course (including any placement and/or any graduation, trails guides course or any other bookings of any nature made with Bushwise) for any reason, then:

• any Course Fees or other amounts paid by you or on your behalf will be non-refundable; and
• Bushwise will offer you a credit for your Course Fees paid to use on another Start Date or alternative Bushwise Course. Use of your course credit will be subject to availability. Credit is non transferable and not redeemable for cash.

GRANTS

By accepting a grant (“the/a Grant”) awarded to you by the Bushwise Foundation to financially support your participation in a Bushwise Course (collectively referred to as a “Bushwise Opportunity” for purposes of this clause), you (being a “Grantee”) confirm that you accept and agree to these terms and conditions.

Please note that by accepting the Grant, you will enter into a binding legal agreement with the Bushwise Foundation and Bushwise (hereinafter referred to as “we”, “us”, or “our”).

The Grant Particulars

You understand and accept that:

• Bushwise nominated you to receive a Grant because you would otherwise be unable to attend and contribute to a Bushwise Opportunity, due to financial constraints.

• The Bushwise Foundation aims to assist wildlife training organisations in delivering guides, conservationists, and other wildlife occupations who are ready to meet the exacting requirements of international wilderness tourism, while playing an active role in ecosystem conservation, and awards Grants to Grantees based on certain criteria relating to the Grantees’ financial means in order to contribute to the achievement of this aim.

• The award (and your acceptance) of a Grant means that the Bushwise Foundation will contribute towards your Bushwise Opportunity fees.

• The Grant is non-transferable to other persons, and it is not redeemable in cash.

• The Grant does not cover the following external, mandatory, or personal costs, which remain your sole financial responsibility:

  • International and domestic air travel, transfers, or any related travel expenses.
  • Travel and medical insurance (must cover the full duration of the program and all planned activities, including fieldwork).
  • Visa applications, immigration fees, or associated costs.
  • Vaccinations, medication, personal health items, or any other medical expenses.
  • Personal spending money, equipment, or independent travel costs.

You confirm and accept that the Grant awarded to you is a contribution to your Bushwise Opportunity fees in the amount or percentage communicated to you via email.  The Grant will be treated as a deposit paid by the Bushwise Foundation to Bushwise on your behalf to secure your place on the selected Bushwise Opportunity. The remaining balance of your Bushwise Opportunity fees will be payable by you to Bushwise in accordance with your selected payment plan.

The Grant may only be transferred to an alternative Bushwise Opportunity in our sole discretion and subject to the Terms, in which case transfer fees will apply.

Cancellation of a Bushwise Opportunity

The below terms apply in conjunction with the Terms applicable to cancellations and refunds.

Where you are eligible for Bushwise Opportunity credit:

• only the amount paid by you will be credited to you to use on another Bushwise Opportunity. For the avoidance of doubt, the Grant is not credited to you, which means you would have to apply for a further Grant when booking your Bushwise Opportunity and using your credit (it is not guaranteed that you will be awarded a further Grant for your chosen Bushwise Opportunity).

• should you decline the offer of credit, only the amount paid by you to Bushwise will be refunded to you (where you are entitled to a refund in accordance with the Bushwise Terms), and not the Grant.

 

Where you cancel or curtail your Bushwise Opportunity for any reason:

• you will not be entitled to any credit and the amounts paid by or on behalf of you to Bushwise will be non-refundable (including the Grant); and

• an amount equal to R40 000.00 (or such other amount as may be communicated to you by Bushwise in writing) less any payments that you have already made to Bushwise will still be due by you to Bushwise where you are paying your fees in instalments. For the avoidance of doubt, the Grant amount cannot be used to set off the amount due.

FGASA REGISTRATION OFFER

• The offer. If you complete a Qualifying Programme and, at that stage, choose to register with FGASA, Bushwise will reimburse you for the Eligible FGASA Costs, subject to the terms of this clause (“the FGASA Offer”). FGASA registration is voluntary. It is not required to work as a field guide in South Africa, and the FGASA Offer is not a condition of, or a substitute for, any qualification or registration required by law.
• Eligible FGASA Costs. “Eligible FGASA Costs” means only the following fees, as charged to you by FGASA, for the FGASA qualification or level that corresponds to your Qualifying Programme:
  • (a) registration fees;
  • (b) assessment fees; and
  • (c) workbook costs.
• Reimbursement is limited to the fees FGASA actually charged you, up to a maximum of R5,000 in total.
• What is not covered. The FGASA Offer does not cover:
  • (a) any FGASA trails guide qualification, assessment or registration;
  • (b) re-assessments, re-writes or repeat attempts;
  • (c) annual or renewal fees;
  • (d) LEDET or any other government registration, the PrDP, first aid, or any other course, certificate or licence;
  • (e) travel, accommodation, insurance, visa or personal costs; or
  • (f) any other fee FGASA charges that is not an Eligible FGASA Cost.
• Bushwise will reimburse Eligible FGASA Costs only if you have passed the relevant FGASA course and FGASA has accepted you for registration. Fees paid for an FGASA course you did not pass, or for a registration FGASA did not accept, are not reimbursed.
• Who is eligible. The FGASA Offer applies only if you booked your Qualifying Programme after 1 October 2026 and it starts after 1 January 2027. You are eligible only if, at the time you claim, all of the following are true:
  • (a) you have passed all components of your Qualifying Programme;
  • (b) if your Qualifying Programme includes a Placement, you completed the full Placement and did not leave it early;
  • (c) you have paid your Course Fees in full;
  • (d) you have not been expelled, dismissed or withdrawn from your Qualifying Programme; and
  • (e) you are legally eligible to work in South Africa.
• How to claim. You must first register with, and pay, FGASA yourself and complete FGASA’s own process. You may then claim by emailing info@bushwise.co.za within 6 months of completing your Qualifying Programme (including any Placement), with:
  • (a) your full name and Bushwise student details;
  • (b) FGASA’s invoice or official receipt in your name, showing each fee and the date paid;
  • (c) proof of payment;
  • (d) FGASA’s written confirmation that you passed the FGASA course and were accepted for registration; and
  • (e) your bank details.
• Claims made after that period, or without these documents, will not be paid.
• Payment. Bushwise will pay a valid claim within 90 days of receiving all documents, by bank transfer in ZAR to an account in your name. Bushwise will not cover bank charges, currency conversion, or any taxes or duties that arise for you. If you paid FGASA in another currency, Bushwise will reimburse the ZAR value shown on FGASA’s documents or, if none is shown, the ZAR value at Bushwise’s rate on the date of payment.
• FGASA’s decisions. FGASA is an independent body, and its fees, requirements, assessments and decisions are its own. Bushwise does not control them and does not guarantee that you will be accepted for, pass, or keep any FGASA registration. Bushwise’s only obligation under the FGASA Offer is to reimburse Eligible FGASA Costs as set out in this clause. If FGASA changes its fees after you have paid, Bushwise will reimburse only what you were charged.
• Verification and personal data. You consent to Bushwise contacting FGASA, in line with our Privacy Policy, to confirm your registration and the fees you paid. Bushwise may refuse or reclaim a payment if a claim is false, altered or duplicated, or if your fees are refunded to you by FGASA or anyone else. You must repay any amount paid in error within 14 days of written notice.
• No other benefit. The FGASA Offer is personal to you. It cannot be transferred, or exchanged for cash, credit or any other benefit, and you may claim each Eligible FGASA Cost only once. It is separate from, and does not replace, any Grant, Employment Guarantee or refund entitlement, and it does not create any right to employment or a Placement.
• Changes. Bushwise may withdraw or change the FGASA Offer for bookings made after the date the change is posted on our website. The FGASA Offer in force on the date you booked your Qualifying Programme applies to you. The “Fees”, “Liability”, “Indemnities” and “Governing Law” clauses of these Terms also apply to the FGASA Offer.

NQF4 NATURE SITE GUIDE QUALIFICATION

The CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF4) qualification (“NQF4”) is available as an optional add-on to Participants on the following courses:

• the IFGA Professional Safari Guide Course;
• the Practical Wildlife Tourism Course;
• the IFGA Professional Safari Guide Short Course; and
• the IFGA Professional Safari & Trails Guide Short Course.

You understand and agree that:

• NQF4 is available at an additional cost, which is not included in your Course Fees. Bushwise will confirm the cost and payment terms to you in writing;
• to start NQF4, you must have obtained the CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification;
• NQF4 is subject to availability, and Bushwise will confirm when your NQF4 training and assessment will take place;
• you must pass the NQF4 theory and practical assessments to obtain the qualification. Any re-writes or re-assessments are at your own expense; and
• NQF4 is not a requirement for a Placement or the Employment Guarantee.

TRANSFERS

Due to limited course availability, transfers will only be permitted at Bushwise’s discretion.

If permitted, you will be required to pay a transfer fee for each alteration made to your In-Person Course. However, if you choose to pay your Course Fees in full upfront, you will not incur any transfer fees. If you choose to pay your Course Fees in instalments, the following transfer fees will apply for purposes of the In-Person Course:

– More than 12 weeks prior to your start date:

• For courses 60 days long or less: ZAR 3000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying)

• For courses over 60 days long: ZAR 15000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying)

 

– Between 12 and 4 weeks prior to your start date:

• For courses 60 days long or less: ZAR 6000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying)

• For courses over 60 days long: ZAR 20000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying)

 

– Between 4 weeks and 7 days prior to your start date:

• For courses 60 days long or less: ZAR 12000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying)

• For courses over 60 days long: ZAR 25000 (or its equivalent in the currency you are paying)

 

– 7 days or less before your course start date:

• The provisions applicable to cancellations will apply (i.e., you will be considered as having cancelled your original Bushwise Course).

 

The following conditions apply to all transfers:

• All transfer fees must be paid to confirm your new start date;

• Any payments made remain non-refundable, regardless of new due dates;

• Your existing pay schedule, including due dates for future payments, will not change;

• You will not be eligible for a refund of any course fee differences in the event you choose a course with a lower cost;

• In the event you choose a course or start date with a higher cost, you will need to pay the difference in fee;

• You may forfeit any grant or other discount applied to your original booking at Bushwise management’s sole discretion;

• Your transfer request must include a date or course shown on the website; and

• All transfers are subject to availability and will be confirmed in writing by Bushwise.

ON YOUR BUSHWISE COURSE

You must always respect and follow the health and safety procedures and codes of conduct as set out by Bushwise, its staff, partners and/or Placement representatives.

For purposes of Bushwise In-Person Courses, Bushwise reserves the right to search your bag, room, personal vehicles or other property where there is deemed a health and safety, legal or other serious risk including the possession of illegal and illicit substances, including marijuana.

In the event you break any local laws, we will bear no liability and will not be required to liaise on your behalf with local authorities.

Bushwise staff reserve the right to make decisions on your emergency medical care deemed essential by the most qualified staff member in the event you are not able to do so and Bushwise will not be held liable for the outcome of such care.

Disciplinary Procedures including Expulsion

Bushwise reserves the right to issue a sanction of any kind, including expulsion/dismissal, regardless of whether any warnings have been given. All disciplinary action will be documented and take place in front of a witness, where appropriate.

Depending on the severity of the offence, which is decided at Bushwise’s discretion, your first offence will usually result in a verbal warning or written warning where appropriate. Repeated offences following a warning could lead to a written warning or a final written warning as appropriate. Thereafter any further offences will result in expulsion/dismissal. Please be aware that all warnings, and any other disciplinary records, will remain valid for a full period of 12 months from the date of their original issue and may jeopardise any placements.

A full list of rules, regulations and procedures will be provided at the start of your course, during your health & safety briefing.

The following non-exhaustive list details actions that are grounds for immediate expulsion/dismissal (where applicable to your Bushwise Course):

• Failure to follow rules, regulations and policies of Bushwise;

• Possession, taking, or supplying of illegal or mind-altering substances, including marijuana;

• Showing drunken behaviour or intoxicated while on the course or while interacting with Bushwise’s partners (please note that should excessive consumption of alcohol become a problem at any time during the Bushwise In-Person Course, we will report it to IFGA and CATHSSETA. Bushwise is bound by the CATHSSETA & IFGA training provider memorandum of understanding, and as such we need to inform them of any incidents. Your behaviour on and off the campus could directly affect your career as a field guide);

• Smoking or vaping in any building (including accommodation), in any vehicle, or during any lectures or practical excursions (please utilise a designated smoking area should you wish to smoke or vape, and discard any cigarette butts in the dustbins provided and not on the ground);

• Breaking local laws;

• Bullying, threatening, displaying cruel, thoughtless or rude behaviour or committing acts which could or imply injure or harm (mentally or physically) another Participant, a member of staff or any other person;

• Omitting or misrepresenting any medical history on your medical form or forging your medical practitioner’s signature;

• Displaying any concerning behaviours, indicating a potential risk to self or others, which Bushwise feels, in their sole discretion, warrant immediate medical treatment or counselling;

• Failing to carry and/or take any medication that is prescribed by a medical practitioner;

• Non-consensual sexual contact with any individual;

• Disobeying Bushwise’s or placement partner’s instructions in relation to health and safety;

• Disruption or obstruction of course activities;

• If Bushwise staff feel it is in the best interests of your health and safety or the course in general; and/or

• Committing an act or displaying behaviour which could jeopardise Bushwise’s reputation and/or future Bushwise courses or lead to the souring of relations between Bushwise and its partners.

In the event of expulsion for any reason, you will not be entitled to any reimbursement from Bushwise, nor will Bushwise be responsible for any additional costs incurred by you as a result of expulsion. You will receive notification of your expulsion in writing. Bushwise reserves the right to share this document with your next of kin should we feel the circumstances warrant it. In serious cases, where Bushwise feels the health and safety of others has been or could be impacted, you may be required to leave Bushwise premises immediately. In most other instances, Bushwise will provide a deadline for departure and can assist with arranging alternative accommodation or transportation which will be at your own cost. Following your departure, Bushwise will no longer be responsible for you.

Weapons

Any form of weaponry (including knives, rifles, pellet guns, etc.) are not permitted at campus, unless with prior written consent from Bushwise management. Should a Participant be found in possession of a weapon without consent, serious repercussions will ensue.

Pets and Animals

Participants are not permitted to bring pets of any description to the Bushwise Campus. Participants are also not permitted, unless under direct supervision or for a training exercise, to catch or touch any animal. Absolutely no feeding of any animal at campus is permitted. Serious repercussions will incur should this happen.

Bushwise Equipment and Furniture

Please treat all equipment and material belonging to Bushwise (and its service providers or partners) with care and respect. Any item which is lost or damaged by a Participant will need to be replaced at cost to the Participant; this includes vehicle damage due to negligence. Furniture may not be removed from rooms, offices, lecture area or dining area. No cups, plates or cutlery may be taken from the kitchen or dining area to other rooms. Please note that no equipment, vehicle or material may be used without specific permission from the relevant member of staff.

Staff accommodation and offices are out of bounds to Participants at all times, except with the permission from the head trainer or general manager.

ACTIVITIES OUTSIDE OF BUSHWISE

International and domestic travel provides an opportunity for various tourist activities and experiences. We cannot bear any liability for activities that you choose to undertake that are not officially included in your Bushwise Course. What is included in the course is laid out in the “What’s Included” tab on your chosen course’s page on our website, or on the Fact Sheet for each program. These rules apply regardless of whether we introduce or recommend a given activity or provider.

Participants are responsible for their own private transport. Bushwise will provide transport in case of emergency – this excludes minor medical conditions or doctor’s appointments. There will be a register to sign when you leave the property; this is for security and insurance purposes.

GRADUATION

If a graduation event is scheduled to be held upon the successful completion of your Bushwise Course, Bushwise shall bear no responsibility for the travel, food, and/or accommodation arrangements and expenses incurred by any of your guests attending (or planning to attend) the graduation ceremony. In addition, Bushwise shall not be responsible for any illnesses, injuries, or other losses or damages suffered by your guests whilst attending the graduation ceremony (unless we acted with gross negligence). You will be responsible for ensuring that your guests are aware of these Terms.

Bushwise reserves the right to change the times and dates of the graduation ceremony without compensation, should it deem it necessary to do so in its sole discretion. In such an event, Bushwise will not refund you or your guests for any expenses incurred by you and/or your guests related to your graduation, including, but not limited to, airfare, visa expenses, insurance, documentation and equipment purchases. Please note this list is not exhaustive.

PRIVACY POLICY

Your personal data is protected and handled in line with our Privacy Policy.

PROGRAM DATA

Any research, data, reports, photographs, videography and documentation collected by you on your Bushwise course remains the property of Bushwise Bushwise’s permission must be received before that data can be used (e.g. before you can include it in a research or scientific paper). No compensation will be provided to you for any data or research you collect.

Any course equipment provided in-country remains the property of Bushwise and must be returned in good, working order upon conclusion of your Bushwise course. In the event such equipment is lost or damaged due to negligence, you must pay for, or replace it.

MEDIA

All lectures, training material, research, data, reports, photographs, videos and documentation relating to the Bushwise Course and Bushwise, are the sole property of Bushwise and cannot be used or reproduced without our express written permission.

Any photographs, videos or multimedia that you produce or give to Bushwise may be used by Bushwise without charge or credit in all of our media, promotional or commercial materials (whether now existing or in the future invented). If you choose to supply Bushwise (or our partners or service providers) with any photographs, videography or multimedia you hereby confirm that:

• you irrevocably grant perpetual permission to Bushwise, and licensees and assigns, to use such media throughout the world for any of their commercial or non-commercial purposes in any and all media, including, without limitation, in Bushwise’s printed publications, presentations, promotional materials, in the advertising of Bushwise’s goods or services or on Bushwise’s website and social media;

• you waive all moral rights in such media to which you may now or at any future time be entitled under the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988 as amended from time to time and under all similar legislation from time to time in force anywhere in the world; and

• you shall procure any necessary third-party consents and/or waivers to give effect to this clause and shall indemnify Bushwise and its related companies and associates against any claims, losses, damages or costs arising from its failure to do so.

In addition, you give Bushwise, IFGA and its affiliates permission to take and/or use your media in Bushwise’s and/or IFGA’s media publications and other promotional, commercial or marketing material, which may include, but is not limited to, the posting of such media on social media and/or Bushwise’s and/or IFGA’s website. In particular:

• you acknowledge and agree that your image may be taken and shared by other individuals with access to Bushwise’s and/or IFGA’s social media platforms.

• you waive any right to inspect or approve of the media that may be used.

• you waive any right to royalties or other compensation arising from or related to the use of the image.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY

By applying for a Bushwise Course and entering into these Terms, you agree to abide by our Social Media Policy, as amended from time to time.

COMPLAINTS

You should direct any complaints in writing to info@bushwise.co.za. Bushwise will not engage with complaints made by third parties unless explicitly directed in writing by you.

PERSONAL RISK

You accept that you will be subjected to various emotional, physical and psychological demands by participating on a Bushwise In-Person Course or Placement. You are aware and accept that the standard of living in South Africa, and the areas where Bushwise and its Placements operate, including food, hygiene and accommodation, may be below the general standards of your own country or city.

You also understand that certain risks may arise, including, but not limited to:

• hazards of travelling in remote areas;

• travel by automobile, van, bus, aeroplane, boat, train or any other means of conveyance;

• the forces of nature;

• civil disturbances;

• national or international conflicts;

• terrorism;

• arbitrary itinerary changes made by foreign governments or vendors;

• interacting with dangerous wildlife;

• working with, and around, firearms;

• personal injury or illness from the local environment;

• accident or illness in remote locations without immediate evacuation or medical facilities; or

• negligent acts of third parties.

You confirm and agree to all of the following:

• you understand these and other risks inherent in such a course;

• you also confirm that your participation is completely voluntary;

• you assume all risk associated with your internship/placement;

• you agree to indemnify us and those involved in delivering the placement component against any claims of any kind that arise from your participation. These claims include those arising both directly and indirectly from your participation in the course.

SECURITY

Security is everybody’s responsibility at Bushwise. Participants are asked to be vigilant at all times whilst on Bushwise’s property. To ensure that your time at Bushwise is one that is always as safe as possible:

• Be aware of strangers on the property, and immediately report any strangers seen on the property to the closest member of Bushwise staff.

• Watch for people loitering outside of the property gate, and immediately report any people seen loitering outside of the gate to the closest member of Bushwise staff.

• If you see someone behaving in a manner that suggests dangerous or criminal behaviour, report their presence and actions immediately to the closest member of staff.

• Look after your personal property – never leave bags, purses, phones or other items lying around the Campus unattended.

• Report the presence of any strange or any unidentifiable items that you notice on the property, especially if they are unattended.

• If you have a motor vehicle at Bushwise, keep it locked at all times while you are not in it.

LIABILITY

Bushwise and our affiliates will not pay financial compensation which exceeds the amount of your course fee, except in cases of death or personal injury caused by Bushwise’s negligence.

In cases of death or personal injury caused by Bushwise’s negligence, any liability by Bushwise and/or its employees and/or its agents/partners/service providers is limited to the financial amount that will be paid out by the insurance policies in Bushwise’s name. If no compensation is received from these policies, then any and all liability whatsoever, including without limitation, claims grounded in negligence, is hereby limited to a maximum amount of £2,000.00.

Bushwise and/or our affiliates shall not be liable to you for any losses which constitute indirect, special or consequential, incidental or punitive damages.

INDEMNITIES

You agree to defend, indemnify and hold us, our managers, owners, officers, directors, employees, agents, subsidiaries, affiliates, assigns and our licensee and licensors, and their employees, contractors, agents, officers and directors, from and against any and all claims, damages, obligations, losses, liabilities, costs or debt, and expenses (including but not limited to attorney’s fees), resulting from or arising out of a) the use and access of a Bushwise Course, or b) a breach of these Terms, or c) your use of or reliance on any third-party content.

GOVERNING LAW

English (UK) Law shall apply to this Agreement and the parties agree to submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English Courts.

SECTION B: BUSHWISE PROFESSIONAL COURSES

IFGA PROFESSIONAL SAFARI GUIDE COURSE, PRACTICAL GAME MANAGEMENT COURSE, PRACTICAL WILDLIFE TOURISM COURSE & PRACTICAL CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT COURSE 

ARRIVAL INFORMATION

Before a Bushwise IFGA Professional Safari Guide Course, Practical Game Management Course, Practical Wildlife Tourism Course or Practical Conservation Management Course begins and closer to the Start Date, we will send out a welcome letter and an email to all Participants with directions to the Bushwise Campus. When planning your flights or other transportation, please ensure that you arrive in South Africa with ample time to get to the Campus by the Start Date of your course.

For those arriving in Johannesburg, we will arrange a transfer from OR Tambo International Airport to the Campus on the first day of your course. The drive is approximately 6 hours. This transfer is not included in your course fee but can be arranged at an extra cost for Participants. A detailed letter with times will be sent closer to the course Start Date.

Should you wish to be dropped off at the Campus or to drive yourself there, please advise your student support coordinator in advance as parking space is limited. Please note that Participants are not permitted to arrive at campus on any day other than the agreed Start Date of the relevant Bushwise Course.

On arrival at the Campus, we will give you time to settle in and get to know your fellow Participants and our staff. During the first week of your Bushwise Professional Course, our staff will go through an orientation program to familiarise you with all aspects of your training, which will include the planned program, health and safety measures, and general Participant life. 

LIFE ON CAMPUS

Campus Location Confirmation

Closer to your Bushwise Professional Course Start Date, your student support coordinator will provide you with the details (including location) of your allocated campus. A detailed Campus fact sheet will be sent to you approximately 6 weeks prior to the Bushwise Course Start Date.  Bushwise reserves the right to change your course location/campus at any given time upon notice to you. 

Accommodation and Facilities

Accommodation is in shared bungalows, safari tents and/or lodge-style rooms, with beds, electricity and communal bathrooms. It is your responsibility to keep your room clean and tidy at all times. You are welcome to bring a mosquito net, if you choose to do so. Our campuses have well-equipped lecture rooms, dining areas, and braai areas. There are also common facilities such as walking trails and recreational areas.

There will be a designated fridge available for limited food storage. No other kitchen equipment may be used without permission from a staff member. If at any point you use the kitchen, please leave it clean. The chef has the right to refuse to cook a meal should a Participant or Participants leave the kitchen area in a mess. Please respect the space, and clean up after yourself.

Participants are also responsible for the cleanliness of the dining and bathroom areas. A roster will be available with Participants’ names, stating who is responsible for assisting staff in kitchen and household duties, such as cleaning and washing of dishes. Bathrooms are cleaned weekly and at all other times all Participants are responsible for keeping the bathrooms clean and tidy.

Internet and Communication

WiFi is available in certain spots around campus. Please note that there are limited WiFi  access points and, due to the isolated location of the campus, signal and connectivity problems are sometimes experienced. Mobile reception in and around campus is very limited, and certain network providers work better than others on each campus. Please feel free to reach out to us if you would like recommendations on service providers.

Laundry

While you are attending your Bushwise Professional Course, your laundry will be washed twice a week, and your linen will be washed once a week. Rosters of these washing days will be placed in the laundry and on the Participants’ notice board. We do not wash certain items (such as socks and under garments), however we will provide you with the supplies to wash these items yourself.

Meals and Dietary Requirements

Two cooked meals are served daily, one for brunch and one for dinner. Fruit, cereals, porridges, tea, coffee and bread are available between meals.

Bushwise endeavours to supply healthy, balanced meals to all of our Participants. If you have dietary restrictions, please inform us before the Bushwise Course commences. Please note that it is not always possible to supply vegetarian substitutes. Expensive items, such as tofu and soya milk, will be for the Participant’s account.

Campus Duties

Duties on campus are split and shared between Participants. Please remember to fulfil your responsibilities to maintain structure and a clean and safe campus for you and your fellow Participants. These duties, such as camp manager duty, demonstrate important information regarding an individual’s attitude and management abilities and will be taken into consideration towards overall course performance and placement decisions.

Dress code and Uniforms

Participants in the Bushwise Course will receive two sets of uniforms (consisting of 2 x short sleeve or long sleeve shirts and 2 x shorts or 2 x trousers) . Additional sets of uniforms can be purchased at a discounted rate. You will also receive a Bushwise fleece jacket, beanie and cap. You will be expected to wear your uniform and name badge daily during training hours.

In addition, you will be required to bring the following with you:

• Brown or khaki ankle boots or normal boots made of leather or fabric (boots are to be polished regularly).

• Khaki, brown or green socks with boots.

• Brown, khaki or green jerseys and jackets, no bright colours.

• Natural coloured hats (brown/khaki/green) without branding.

• Natural coloured bags/backpacks for walks and sleep-outs.

The following restrictions will apply (industry standards):

• Your hair will need to be neat and tied back and kept out of your face during activities.

• No dreadlocks are allowed.

• Men’s hair (including facial hair) must be kept neat.

• Light make-up for women is permitted, as well as one small pair of stud-type earrings in the ear lobe.

• Other visible piercings need to be removed during training hours.

• Visible tattoos need to be hidden during your placement period and if you are working professionally within the field guide industry.

• Jewellery and nail polish is allowed in moderation only.

• No military uniform/clothing will be permitted. It is against South African Law to wear any form of military uniform (jackets included) unless you are currently enrolled in the defence force.

• No clothes other than your uniform are allowed to be worn for any activities.

 

COURSE BREAKS

During this Bushwise Course, you will be given a one week break every semester. During this time, you may be required to leave campus and use the opportunity for personal travel or, where possible, to return home. Participants are to depart on the Saturday morning after activity and return by 2pm the following Sunday.

Bushwise is not responsible for any travel arrangements during this time nor do we bear any liability for activities that you choose to undertake that are not officially included in your Bushwise Professional Course. If you are permitted to stay on campus during these breaks:

• Food will not be provided and you will need to purchase and cook your own meals;

• Laundry service and room cleaning will not be available;

• Staff will not be present on campus; and

• You will be required to sign a waiver exempting Bushwise from any liability during this time.

Participants may have family visiting them during their off week, but please note that no Participant can have visitors at campus at any time. We can recommend accommodation nearby for your guests.

BOTSWANA COMPONENT

The following section applies to Participants whose Bushwise Course includes a Botswana component.

You understand and agree that:

• the duration of the Botswana component is at Bushwise’s sole discretion and may be changed at any time;
• the location of the Botswana component is at Bushwise’s sole discretion and may be changed to a location of a similar nature, depending on availability;
• the point in your Bushwise Professional Course at which the Botswana component takes place is at Bushwise’s sole discretion and may be changed;
• Bushwise may shorten, postpone or cancel the Botswana component where weather or environmental conditions, including but not limited to flooding, make it unsafe or impractical to go ahead. Bushwise will make this decision based on the safety of Participants and staff, and the decision is final;
• you must hold a passport that is valid for the full duration of the Botswana component and that meets the entry requirements of Botswana and of South Africa for your return. Obtaining and maintaining a valid passport is your sole responsibility;
• you must be legally permitted to enter Botswana and re-enter South Africa. It is your sole responsibility to check and meet any entry requirements, including any visa, permit or health requirements, before the Botswana component begins;
• should you be unable to take part in the Botswana component because you do not hold a valid passport, or are not legally permitted to enter Botswana or re-enter South Africa, Bushwise is under no obligation to provide an alternative activity, and you will not be entitled to a refund or credit; and
• In the event that Bushwise changes, shortens or cancels the Botswana component for any of the reasons above, you will not be entitled to a refund or credit.

DRIVER’S LICENCE

Participants must have a valid manual drivers licence prior to starting the Bushwise Course. The costs involved in obtaining a South African licence and Professional Driving Permit (“PrDP”) are not covered by Bushwise and will be solely your responsibility. More information regarding PrDP applications will be sent in a confirmation email.

Important note: PrDPs are necessary in South Africa to drive guests on game vehicles. This is a requirement for guiding placements after the Bushwise Course. You must be at least 21 years of age and have a South African drivers licence to apply for a PrDP. Your driving abilities will be assessed by Bushwise staff before you are allowed to drive a company vehicle during practical training. Criminal records may affect the attainment of a PrDP. Please make sure you have disclosed any criminal record you may have before finalising a booking with Bushwise.

EXAMS AND GRADING POLICIES

The minimum required pass mark for all subjects is 75%, including the Bushwise Course, soft skills, practical tests, CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide NQF2 theory and practical assessment. Certificates and placements are issued only to Participants who have paid their accounts in full, as well as successfully passed all the theory and practical components required for the certificate.

This is a CATHSSETA- accredited course. You have to pass the theory exam, set up by Bushwise as well as the practical assessment to advance to the next stage of the syllabus. If you are unsuccessful in any of these at the first attempt, this might mean missing parts of the training course, which cannot be rescheduled.

Continuous assessments 

Participants will be continually assessed on aspects such as Participant performance, attitude, behaviour, initiative, driving abilities etc. throughout the course, starting from the starting date of the course. These assessments will be referred to when considering placement options for Participants and will be deciding factors in the scoring of the practical components of the course, so keep in mind that placement decisions and course outcomes are not purely based on theory results. These assessments can be done through observation, written exams or practical assessments. Instructors will keep your portfolio of evidence updated on an ongoing basis.

Each semester progress reports will be discussed with Participants in order to see where they can improve. This will be a benchmark for your IFGA and/or Bushwise practical assessment, once you have written the NQF2 or other theory exams.

In some cases, it might so happen that the instructors set combined assignments that cover material from more than one subject. Course work, class work, group and individual exercises, and even “homework” may also be given, graded by the instructor, and used towards assessment marks. Instructors will give you the assignment’s due date when they issue the work to you.

Assignments must be handed to the specific instructor who issued the assignment to you. Some of the instructors may also use oral presentation marks for assignment grades. Absenteeism or illness does not constitute cause for late submission.

Tests and exams 

The course comprises tests throughout the program as well as compulsory workbook sessions together with question and answer sessions.

Please note that:

• If an instructor cannot read something written in a test, examination or assignment of any sort due to the fact that the Participant’s handwriting is illegible, no mark will be allocated for that work.

• During the week, time between activities is meant for studying and the completion of workbooks or assignments, as well as preparation for upcoming lectures.

 

Cheating 

Any Participant who makes him/herself guilty of cheating will face very serious actions. In addition to the Bushwise disciplinary rules laid out in this guide, the following points must be kept in mind:

• The rules will be applied equally to all parties concerned, whether they claim to be the “cheater” or the “cheated”.

• Any Participant found guilty of cheating may not apply to redo, resubmit or rewrite the work.

• If this is a recurring problem from an individual Participant, he/she will be suspended from the Bushwise Course and disallowed from writing any examinations administered by Bushwise for 1 year.

Absenteeism and the Absenteeism Policy 

It is an implicit requirement of all Participants that they attend 100% of their scheduled lectures and practical sessions throughout the academic semester to graduate and get a placement. Time lost during practicals or lectures is to be made up by the Participant in his or her own time.

This is a non-negotiable point for each specific unit standard of CATHSSETA, and Bushwise requires the full allocated practical time period set aside. Should you be ill or if there is a problem and you cannot attend a practical or lecture, please notify the head instructor and a medical certificate will be required.

If a Participant is late for class or an activity, they will be excused from that activity or class. It will be at the instructor’s discretion whether the Participant will be allowed to enter the classroom or join an activity. All sections of the Bushwise Course have relevance to the course qualification, previous experience will not exempt a Participant from attending that particular lecture.

Lecture hours and schedules 

All lecture hours are scheduled and subject to change according to circumstances. All changes will be communicated to the Participants.

Supplementary test / examination costs 

Bushwise theory tests are written weekly to prepare you for the CATHSSETA NQF2 and IFGA exams. You will need to pass the NQF2 exam (min 75%) and the NQF2 assessment to pass the Bushwise Course. You will need to write and pass the first special sitting that Bushwise arranges, which is a written exam paper and practical assessment, to attain your full qualification in nature guiding.

Should you fail your first sitting, you fail the Bushwise Course, but you can still achieve your IFGA certification if you pass the exam at the next sitting. Bushwise covers the costs for the NQF2 exam.. Any re-write exam is at the expense of the Participant. If you fail or miss the NQF2 exam which is organised by Bushwise, you can only re-write the exam at a national set IFGAexam date. A Participant is not forced to re-write an examination. This is by his/her own choice. The same point also applies to internal assignments and tests.

If you do not attain the relevant levels, you will not be able to be allowed a Placement after your initial training period. The booking and payments of re-writing the NQF2 or any Trails Guide exam are the responsibility of the Participant and payments are to be made directly to Bushwise. 

NDP 

Once you’re qualified as an NQF2 Nature Site Guide and you have obtained your First Aid and PrDP, if you intent to guide you have to register with LEDET. This is an additional cost of approximately R300.00.

Manuals and Workbooks  

All relevant hardcopy field guide training manuals and workbooks are included in the course fee.

PLACEMENTS

This section applies to Participants on a 12-month Bushwise Professional Course that includes a Placement. Placements last 6 months and take place in the second half of your 12-month Bushwise Professional Course.

General eligibility

To be eligible for a Placement, regardless of which Bushwise Professional Course you have booked, you must:

• be under the age of 39 at the start of your Placement;
• have 100% attendance on your Bushwise Professional Course. Absences due to illness, up to a maximum of 5 days across your course, will not count against your attendance record if you make up any missed time or work, as required by Bushwise;
• achieve a Bushwise theory pass rate of 75% or more, an average practical grading rate of 75% or more, and a minimum score of 75% for soft skills;
• achieve a CATHSSETA NQF2 theory pass rate of 75% or more at the first sitting scheduled by Bushwise, and be found competent in the CATHSSETA NQF2 practical assessment; and
• meet the course-specific requirements below.

IFGA Professional Safari Guide Course

If you have booked the IFGA Professional Safari Guide Course, you must have at least 1 year of manual driving experience before starting your Bushwise Professional Course, and be able to demonstrate the ability to safely operate a 4×4 vehicle.

Practical Game Management Course

If you have booked the Practical Game Management Course, you may be placed at a reserve, game farm or tourism operation, subject to availability.

Practical Wildlife Tourism Course

If you have booked the Practical Wildlife Tourism Course, Bushwise will aim to place you at a tourism-focused Placement, subject to availability.

Practical Conservation Management Course

If you have booked the Practical Conservation Management Course, Bushwise will aim to place you at a conservation-focused Placement, subject to availability.

How Placements are offered

• Placements are offered at Bushwise’s sole discretion and are subject to availability.
• Bushwise may refuse to offer you a Placement based on your general performance and behaviour, as assessed through continuous assessment and performance reviews.
• All grades and assessments are final and are not subject to appeal.
• Bushwise does not guarantee a Placement in any specific location. Bushwise may substitute a Placement location with one of a similar nature, including one at a Bushwise Campus.
• If you do not qualify for, or do not accept, a Placement:
  • you will not receive a refund or credit; and
  • you will not qualify for the Employment Guarantee.
• If you meet all the eligibility requirements but Bushwise is unable to offer you a Placement, Bushwise will offer you a Placement at a Bushwise Campus.

While on your Placement

While on your Placement, you understand and agree that:

• you may be expected to perform a variety of duties, including general guiding duties, assisting in the bar, serving drinks, undertaking stock takes, housekeeping, maintenance (including fence maintenance and road clearing), reception duties, and food and beverage duties;
• the standards of your Placement Organisation, including accommodation and health and safety standards, may not match those of Bushwise;
• you must comply with the Placement Organisation’s rules, policies and the reasonable instructions of its representatives, in addition to the rules set out by Bushwise;
• you will not receive any remuneration;
• if you leave your Placement early:
  • you will not be entitled to an alternative Placement or a refund; and
  • you will automatically be disqualified from the Employment Guarantee;
• if you need to leave your Placement early because of a genuine risk to your health, safety or welfare (for example illness, injury, harassment or unsafe conditions), you must tell Bushwise straight away. If Bushwise agrees that leaving was necessary:
  • Bushwise will try to arrange an alternative Placement, which may be at a Bushwise Campus; and
  • the time you spent on your original Placement will count towards your Placement and the Employment Guarantee requirements;
• if your Placement Organisation ends your Placement early for reasons that are not your fault, Bushwise will offer you an alternative Placement, which may be at a Bushwise Campus; and
• Bushwise and your Placement Organisation are under no obligation to offer you employment, during or after your Placement.

You further understand and agree that:

• the location and type of Placement offered to you is at Bushwise’s sole discretion;
• Placement locations are based on demand from Bushwise’s partner organisations and are subject to availability;
• you must sign a work placement agreement between you, Bushwise and the Placement Organisation. If you refuse to sign it, you will not be able to start your Placement;
• you must start your Placement on the date set by your Placement Organisation. Placement Organisations are not responsible for accommodating personal travel plans, and failure to start on the date set may result in your Placement being terminated without a refund;
• if you decline a Placement offered by Bushwise, or are not accepted for a Placement after a personal interview:
  • Bushwise is under no obligation to offer you an alternative; and
  • you will not receive a refund;
• if you find your own Placement or employment while on a study visa:
  • you will not be entitled to any refund; and
  • Bushwise may be legally obliged to notify the immigration authorities, which may result in your visa being cancelled; and
• you may not contact Bushwise-affiliated lodges, game parks, game reserves, tourism institutions or tourism service providers to seek a Placement or employment without Bushwise’s consent.

Placements outside South Africa

Placements take place in South Africa. Bushwise will only offer you a Placement outside South Africa if you choose to opt in to one and pay the additional costs. If you opt in:

• all additional costs of the Placement outside South Africa, including travel, visas, permits, insurance and accommodation, are your sole responsibility and are not included in your Course Fees;
• Placements outside South Africa are subject to availability, and Bushwise does not guarantee a Placement in any specific country;
• you must hold a valid passport and be legally permitted to enter the host country. Obtaining these is your sole responsibility; and
• if you are unable to take up a Placement abroad because you do not hold a valid passport or are not legally permitted to enter the host country:
  • Bushwise is under no obligation to offer you an alternative Placement; and
  • you will not be entitled to a refund.

Limited Placement opportunities

If Placement opportunities become limited, for example because of changes in immigration regulations, the health of the tourism industry or the law, in South Africa or internationally, or for any other reason, the highest performers will be given priority for Placements, at Bushwise’s discretion.

EMPLOYMENT GUARANTEE

The Employment Guarantee applies to the 12-month Bushwise Professional Courses, subject to the general requirements below and the requirements for your specific course. If you meet all of these requirements and do not receive a Qualifying Job Offer within the Job Search Period, you will be entitled to a refund as set out below.

General requirements

To qualify for the Employment Guarantee, regardless of which Bushwise Professional Course you have booked, you must:

• hold South African citizenship;
• be between the ages of 21 and 39 years old on your Completion Date;
• complete the 12-month Bushwise Professional Course and Placement, including any extensions to your Placement, concurrently;
• have paid your Course Fees in full;
• have a 100% attendance record on both your course and Placement. Absences due to illness, up to a maximum of 5 days across your course and Placement, will not count against your attendance record if:
  • you provide a medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner covering the absence within 1 day of returning; and
  • you make up any missed time or work, as required by Bushwise or your Placement Organisation;
• meet the job search requirements below; and
• meet the course-specific requirements below.

IFGA Professional Safari Guide Course

You must:

• log 10 encounters and 50 guiding hours during your Placement;
• hold a valid PrDP licence;
• obtain the following nationally recognised certificates or qualifications:
  • CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification;
  • Firearm Proficiency SASSETA;
  • Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567; and
  • CyberTracker Track & Sign; and
• obtain the following in-house and other certificates:
  • Bushwise Safari Guide 6–12 month course certificate;
  • Wildlife photography workshop;
  • Reptile orientation course;
  • Dangerous game experience;
  • Social media module in the Field Guide & Lodge industry;
  • Advanced rifle handling;
  • Bushwise Guest Experience & Marketing Essentials; and
  • Bushwise Conservation Practitioner Essentials.

Practical Wildlife Tourism Course

You must:

• hold a valid PrDP licence;
• obtain the following nationally recognised certificates or qualifications:
  • CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification;
  • Bushwise Trails Guide theory;
  • Firearm Proficiency SASSETA;
  • Unit Standard 117705 – Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act;
  • Unit Standard 119651 – Handling and use of a manually operated rifle or carbine;
  • Unit Standard 123519 – Handling and use of a manually operated rifle or carbine for business purposes;
  • Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567: Perform Basic Life Support and First Aid Procedures; and
  • CyberTracker Track & Sign; and
• obtain the following in-house and other certificates:
  • Bushwise Game Management Certificate;
  • Bushwise Hospitality Workshop Certificate;
  • Bushwise Birding Specialist Course;
  • Reptile orientation course;
  • Dangerous game experience;
  • Advanced rifle handling;
  • Bushwise Guest Experience & Marketing Essentials; and
  • Bushwise Conservation Practitioner Essentials.

Practical Game Management Course and Practical Conservation Management Course

You must:

• obtain the following nationally recognised certificates or qualifications:
  • CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) qualification;
  • Firearm Proficiency SASSETA;
  • Unit Standard 117705 – Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act;
  • Unit Standard 119651 – Handling and use of a manually operated rifle or carbine;
  • Unit Standard 123519 – Handling and use of a manually operated rifle or carbine for business purposes;
  • Basic Wilderness First Aid – US ID: 119567: Perform Basic Life Support and First Aid Procedures; and
  • CyberTracker Track & Sign; and
• obtain the following in-house and other certificates:
  • Bushwise Game Management Certificate;
  • Bushwise Hospitality Workshop Certificate;
  • Bushwise Birding Specialist Course;
  • Reptile orientation course;
  • Dangerous game experience;
  • Advanced rifle handling;
  • Bushwise Guest Experience & Marketing Essentials; and
  • Bushwise Conservation Practitioner Essentials.

Qualifying Job Offer

A job offer you receive, or a role you start, is a “Qualifying Job Offer” if it meets all of the following criteria:

• Time period: it is received during your Placement or within 12 months of completing your Placement (“the Job Search Period”).
• Industry: it is in, or connected to, field guiding, wildlife tourism, lodge hospitality, game management, conservation or a related industry. Bushwise, acting reasonably, will make the final decision on whether a role is in a related industry.
• Compensation: it provides a salary, wage, hourly rate or commission. An offer that provides accommodation, meals and/or travel instead of, or as well as, payment also counts.
• Employment type: it is full-time, part-time, fixed-term, seasonal, contract or freelance work, or self-employment. Internships and apprenticeships do not count as Qualifying Job Offers.
• Offer form: it is made verbally or in writing. No offer is needed for self-employment.

If you receive a Qualifying Job Offer, the Employment Guarantee is fulfilled, whether or not you accept the offer.

Job search requirements

During the Job Search Period, you must apply for at least 50 different vacancies. For each vacancy, you must be able to show that:

• you met the minimum requirements for the role, as stated in the vacancy;
• you applied before the deadline and provided all the documents requested;
• you replied to any messages from the prospective employer within 48 hours; and
• you attended any interviews or meetings you were invited to.

In addition:

• you must be willing to relocate anywhere in South Africa, at your own expense, for a Qualifying Job Offer; and
• you may not limit your applications by salary expectations.

When you will not qualify

You will not qualify for the Employment Guarantee if:

• you do not qualify for your Placement as outlined above;
• you do not complete a minimum of 150 days on your Placement;
• you do not disclose your medical history (including mental health) on your application, or are found to be medically unfit by a medical professional during your course or Placement, which may affect your ability to obtain employment;
• you receive a written or verbal warning during your Bushwise Professional Course or Placement;
• you breach Bushwise’s, or your Placement Organisation’s, code of conduct and/or health and safety policies; or
• you are unable to complete your Bushwise Professional Course or Placement for any reason, including medical reasons (including mental health) or Force Majeure.

When the Employment Guarantee is void

The Employment Guarantee depends on the health of the South African international and domestic tourism market. It will be null and void if:

• the South African Government has issued any restrictions on international or domestic travel at any point during your course or Placement;
• the latest Tourism Quarterly Performance Report, published by the Department of Tourism of the Republic of South Africa, shows a decline in foreign travellers compared to the highest level of foreign travellers reported in the same calendar months in the past 3 years;
• the South African Government declares a national state of disaster under the Disaster Management Act, 2002 at any point during your course or Placement; or
• the British Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has advised against all but essential travel to South Africa at any point during your course or Placement.

How to claim

To claim, you must email info@bushwise.co.za within 1 month of the end of the Job Search Period, with your record of applications and supporting evidence.

Bushwise may:

• request further documentary proof of your applications and your communication with employers; and
• contact any prospective employer about your application.

You must authorise prospective employers to share information with Bushwise when asked. If you do not, you will not be eligible for the Employment Guarantee.

Bushwise, acting reasonably, will decide whether a claim meets the requirements of the Employment Guarantee.

Refund

If your claim is approved, you will be entitled to a refund of 50% of your paid Course Fees. The refund will be made to the original method of payment. If that card or account is no longer valid, you must provide Bushwise with updated payment details for an account in your name. All refunds can take up to 180 days to process in full.

DEPARTURE

At the end of the Bushwise Course, it is your responsibility to arrange your own transport from the Campus. Bushwise can assist you with booking your transport to the airport or to your Placement after your Bushwise Professional Course. Please contact your Support Coordinator for a quotation.