Guiding Course Curriculum (One year Field Internship)

There are three terms of full-time training consisting of nine weeks each. The curriculum is spread into eight modules:

1. Culture - Anthropology, History, Customs

Students learn how to portray their culture in an interesting and educational way, specifically in the context of the role of a professional safari guide. They are also educated on the differing cultures of clients in order to be able to cater for their varying needs and interact naturally and appropriately.

2. Animal Behaviour

All aspects of animal behaviour including species names, habitat requirements, feeding habits and social structures.

3. Visitor Handling

This module teaches students how to develop and improve their communication and social skills.

4. Environment and Wildlife Management

Includes studies into statistics, ecological interpretation of the environment, habitat types, human/wildlife conflict, and conflict management and zoning.

5. Natural History

Ethno-botany (herbalism), ornithology, tracking skills, weather and seasonal cycles, wildlife habits including migration, and plant-animal interaction.

6. Camp Management and Cuisine

Camp management, cuisine and presentation, hygiene and waste-disposal, eco-tourism, communications equipment, basic vehicle maintenance, generators and solar equipment, alternative sources of energy.

7. First Aid

First aid and fire control.

8. Placements

Students are placed either with the company that sponsors them or with other safari companies. Each student also spends some time in the Wilderness Camp as part of their training.

Examinations and Certificate Presentation

A written exam is given at the end of modules 1 to 7 and students are required to pass all exams. A placement assessment is given by employers for each student and a mark for module 8. Successful graduates are presented with certificates.