DATES: 30 August to 24 September 2010


PURPOSE STATEMENT
A learner who has achieved this qualification will be able to integrate practical skills and theoretical knowledge in achieving basic competency to act as a nature guide in a conservation area. Embedded throughout this course is an emphasis on the basic knowledge of the natural environment required for nature guiding. This includes the functioning of ecosystems, basic geology, astronomy, ecology, plant and animal identification, reptiles, arthropods, birds and all other inhabitants of the wild.  Upon completion of the course, the learner can then register with DEAT and thus operate legally as a nature guide (learners must be 21 years or older to register with DEAT). The qualification will empower the individuals to be able to operate responsibly and professionally as a nature guide in our natural environment. 

COURSE OUTCOMES
The course is based on the FGASA level 1 syllabus. During the course participants will receive practical and theoretical training on the following topics which are essential skills and knowledge for a nature guide to have:
Field guiding techniques, Wildlife behavior , Ecology, geology, soils, climate and Basic astronomy, Knowledge of vegetation and Mammals, Species interaction and identification, Birds, reptiles, arachnids and insects, Identifying risky situations, History of human culture in SA.

ACCREDITATION
This course is accredited by the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) and fulfills the requirements for the THETA skills programme: Nature Site Guide (NQF level 2).

 
COURSE DURATION
The duration of this course is 21days
 

COST
This 21 day course costs R13, 200.00 and includes all accommodation, meals, registration with FGASA, course learning material & training at the Southern African Wildlife College. It also includes level 1st First Aid training. The price does not include for transport to and from SAWC.

WHO CAN ATTEND?
The Nature Guiding Level 1 programme is aimed at a broad target market and would be beneficial to any of the following:

• Trackers and guides who are involved in the in the wildlife industry
• Private people who want to enrich their knowledge of wildlife
• People interested in learning basic geology, astronomy, ecology, arthropods reptiles, birds, plant and animal identification, amphibians and fish
• People who would like to learn more about animal behaviour, habits as well as field guiding techniques Individuals wishing to get into the wildlife/conservation
• industryField rangers and field patrollers

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