£350 discount off May 2010 course.

Have you ever wondered how to become a Game Ranger?

This 6 week course is ideal for the adventurous traveller looking for a totally new learning experience in the bush or for those wanting to start a career as a Game Ranger or Field Guide.

This is a fully accredited FGASA level 1 Field Guide training course in the stunning Balule Nature Reserve in Southern Africa. Many of our past wildlife and conservation volunteers also take part in level one Game Ranger training as their 'next step' in their journey through Africa.

The reserve is home to a variety of African wildlife, such as lion, herds of elephant, kudu, giraffe, several rare bird species, rhino, and much much more.

What will I do?

The course follows the syllabus set out by FGASA (Field Guide Association of Southern Africa).

Most of your training is done on foot and you will start your mornings with a 2-3 hour walk within the reserve. Emphasis is placed on practical guiding techniques, as well as theoretical training. Endorsed at level 1 standard, but the depth of knowledge taught will be between level two and level three.

The course also includes a level1&2 First Aid course which is required to complete your FGASA level 1 training.

The subjects covered are diverse covering subjects such as;

• Astronomy
• Geology
• Fauna and Flora
• Mammals
• Reptiles
• Fish
• Birds
• Climate
• Animal Behaviour

There are 4 to 6 people on the course at any one time to ensure you are given as much one on one guidance that you will need to complete the Field Guide course at level 1.

Where do I stay?

The reserve is 30 kms from Phalaborwa. (which is where you will be collected from). Accommodation within the reserve has an air-conditioned lecture room, lounge area, open plan kitchen and dining room, bedrooms and a small swimming pool where you can relax at the weekends and at the end of each day.

The world famous Kruger National Park is only a short distance away and students will be able to reap the benefits and experiences from a weekend visit on their time off.

What's Included?

• Accommodation
• Three meals a day
• Camping out in the bush
• Practical Assessment to obtain NVQ 2 qualification
• Registration with FGASA and DEAT
• FGASA moderation fees
• FGASA level 1 exam
• Level 1&2 First Aid course
• Local airport transfers to/from Phalaborwa airport
• All training Monday to Friday

How much does is cost? £2,100

£350 discount off May 2010 course. Now only £1750!

In addition to this, we can also arrange  wildlife and conservation volunteering placement on the reserve before or after your stay. You placement will involve assisting the wildlife rangers and maintenance teams to maintain the reserve. Activities involve; road packing, boma building, removal of alien plantations, front of house at one of the lodges (if required), removal of old fence lines, assisting with buffalo breeding projects. Please contact us for more information and pricing options available.

Any Restrictions?

Minimum age is 17. Students must have a full driving licence (for the ranger training) and be competant in the English language. A provisional licence may be accepted upon request.

For more information or to apply for a placement, please CONTACT US.

How do I get there?

You will need to arrange your flights to/from Phalaborwa airport where we will collect you and take you back at the end of your stay with us. However, for a more cost effective way to travel, there is a bus service available. Again, we will collect you from the bus stop at Phalaborwa.