The current guiding qualification
Did you know the current Field Guide qualification through CATHSSETA’s skills programme and unit standards expires soon? This change has thrown the entire guiding sector into uncertainty. The existing qualifications framework ceases to exist at the end of June unless the deadline is extended.
What does this mean for the guiding industry?
For training providers accredited with the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA), the expiration of qualifications in June 2024 means that the qualifications they are currently offering will no longer be recognised or valid after that date unless they are re-registered.
EcoTraining now offers a Higher Certificate: Ecotourism Field Guide course.
EcoTraining is the first training provider accredited to offer a Higher Certificate in the Field Guiding industry. By following this new path, you can achieve an NQF5-qualified Field Guide qualification in just one year instead of the current skills programme, which may take a couple of years.
Receive quality training
This accreditation is a significant step towards improving education and training for nature guides across Africa.
As an EcoTraining student, you can apply for study loans at your local bank to help finance your education. If you are an international student, you can apply for international study visas to ensure you can legally study and pursue your passion for conservation and wildlife.
You’ll receive quality training from subject matter experts within the field guiding industry. Gain practical exposure to Ecotourism through our Work Integrated Learning (WIL) programme, which will allow you to gain professional hospitality experience in the industry. Ultimately, you will walk away with a university-level qualification.
EcoTraining’s course is designed for individuals who are serious about pursuing a career in Ecotourism – a fast-growing industry in Southern Africa. It’s a solid career path, combining comprehensive theoretical components (up to 180 hours of theory) with relevant practical experience.
It is all about practice
The course provides a unique learning opportunity in unfenced camps in pristine wilderness areas. As a student, you will receive informative lectures, hands-on practical training, and daily bush activities to practice new skills and knowledge within your work environment. Working in Big Five areas requires a deep understanding of the landscape, animal behaviour, and warning signs, among other skills. With this programme, you can hone these skills and become proficient in your field.
It does not stop here
EcoTraining’s Higher Education accredited guide training programme enables graduates to legally guide in Big Five game areas across South Africa (nationally). The current skills programme through CATHSSETA allows site-specific (regional) guiding only. It will give you a significant advantage in the competitive field of nature guiding. A Higher Education certificate gives you excellent employment prospects and an opportunity for further studies in the wildlife industry. For example, you can use credits earned towards qualifications such as Tourism Management and Environmental Studies.
EcoTraining’s accreditation by the Council for Higher Education is significant for Africa’s ecotourism and wildlife guiding industry. Aspiring nature guides now have the opportunity to receive an outstanding education and emerge as well-equipped professionals ready to contribute to preserving Africa’s rich biodiversity. This opportunity enables you to take your career to the next level with EcoTraining.
Immerse yourself in the African wilderness, expand your knowledge, and embark on a transformative learning experience with EcoTraining.
Sign up for the Higher Certificate: Ecotourism Field Guide Course today!
For more information on the Higher Certificate: Ecotourism Field Guide Course, contact [email protected] or call +27 (0)13 7522532
The guided experience | Guiding 101 - Ep 6
We are pleased to join EcoTraining Instructor Michael Anderson for the sixth episode of our popular Guiding 101 series in the guided experience. Michael and a few guests are assisting him in portraying some essential guiding skills. Together, they will show us examples of interacting with guests, keeping them interested, and making them feel like they are part of the process.
