Programme in Advanced Field Guiding
The Programme in Advanced Field Guiding covers in-depth aspects of practical field guiding and a thorough understanding of biodiversity and animal behaviour. The South African setting is ideal for this programme with our abundant wildlife and unique landscape, providing delegates with an amazing setting in which to acquire the skills and knowledge to become outstanding field guides. This 12-week programme offers a balanced approach between theory and practice, with each module providing a strong knowledge base followed by practical application.
The programme also provides delegates with the opportunity to develop the requisite skills for field guides with assistance in real-time data collection for an existing long-term ecological research programme. We seek to train individuals who are not just passionate about nature and the conservation thereof, but those who seeks a life-changing experience that will open up their minds and change the way they see the planet we live on.
Programme content
Guiding in the natural environment and general knowledge
Planning and conducting a guided nature experience
Conservation management
Geology, weather and climate
Astronomy and ecology
Biomes of South Africa
Botany and grasses
Taxonomy of animals and arthropods
Animal behaviour
Off-road driving techniques and navigation
Handling dangerous animals and rifles
First aid and the art of tracking
Survival skills in the bush
Historical human habitation
Hospitality
Basic research methodology in fieldwork
Learning outcomes
After successful completion of the programme, delegates will be able to
demonstrate an ability to work with guests and be able to identify their needs
illustrate their bush skills (e.g. tracking, off-road driving, navigation and survival)
illustrate knowledge of the diversity of lifeforms typically found in the African Savannah, and
collect basic ecological data.
Who should enrol?
This programme is ideal for prospective delegates who are passionate about nature and who seeks to become professional field guides.
Course dates
7 September 2015- 20 November 2015
Course fee
R90,000 per delegate (VAT incl.)
Course fees include transport (From Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Mjejane Game Reserve), food, accommodation, conservation fees, all course material, practical sessions and presentations.
Admission requirements
Prospective delegates should at least have Grade 12 and/or a relevant Level 2 qualification and/or relevant work experience/prior knowledge in field guiding.
Accreditation and certification
CE at UP is wholly owned by the University of Pretoria. The University of Pretoria is a multi-purpose public training provider in the higher education and training band and issues certificates of successful completion to delegates who complete a short course and comply with the related assessment criteria.
Time: 08:00 - 17:00
Venue: Mjejane Game Reserve, Nelspruit
Cost: R90,000 per delegate (VAT incl.)