Southern African Wildlife College-Bridging Courses

The introduction to Conservation and Environmental Education Bridging Course started off as a pilot project in 2010 and due to its success, and continued donor support, the course has been extended and revised to suit the needs of the industry.

Aimed at youth who are interested in and have a passion for a career in conservation and/or field guiding, the programme focuses on exposing the learner to the theory and practical application of vocational numeracy and literacy and to the life of a field guide in a conservation area. Learners undergo a contact training session at the College for 6 months and then are work-placed in host lodges for 6 months in order to get a real understanding of an entry-level career in field guiding and to gain valuable field experience. During this time the learners actively participate in field guide mentoring, conducting game drives, dangerous game walks, immersion in ecotourism operation and day to day lodge and hospitality activities.

Learners who complete the bridging programme will obtain their foundational learning competency in literacy and numeracy and if selected, their FGASA apprentice field and apprentice trails guide qualifications.