Course updates Archives

How to become a Field Guide (NQF2)

Photo by Sean Cawood

Curious how you can become a FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2), previously known as Apprentice Field Guide or Level 1? There are a few different options on how to get your qualification and where to do your training, however this is a simple list of what is needed to become a qualified field guide. There...

Responsible Resource Use: Bushwise and the SAWC

“We all must be aware of, and take responsibility for, how we live and what we use.” — the Southern African Wildlife College Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the challenges facing our planet? Many people want to make a difference but struggle to know where to start. In fact, there are many changes you...

Reflections on the recent Bushwise class and their journey as Field Guides

This blog was written to the current graduating class of Bushwise field guides. It’s a farewell, good luck and see you again soon from Bushwise trainer Sophie Barrett. This has been the largest simultaneous cohort of Bushwise students that we have ever had. To say that the training team had zero nerves about how this...

Staying long-term in South Africa as an international student

South Africa is a beautiful country with incredible biodiversity, awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultures and fascinating history. It is the ideal place to begin your conservation career, which is why many international students join Bushwise field guide training courses. We have had students from the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Peru, France, Germany and the United States...

Why do a 6- or 12-month field guide course?

We often hear this question from prospective students, “Which field guide course should I do?” At Bushwise we offer two core in-person options: our 6- and 12-month Professional Field Guide course and our 60-day Safari Guide course. Both are immersive wildlife experiences where you can earn your FGASA and additional qualifications, but there are some...

Why do a 60-day safari guide course?

We often hear the question from prospective students, “Which field guide course should I do?” At Bushwise we offer two core in-person options: our 6- and 12-month Professional Field Guide course and our 60-day Safari Guide course. Both are immersive wildlife experiences where you can earn your FGASA as well as additional qualifications, but there...

Getting involved in conservation work

3 min read Starting a career in conservation can be a fulfilling and exciting journey for those with a passion for wildlife and the environment. From wildlife research to park management and conservation education, the opportunities within the conservation industry are vast and varied. Here at Bushwise, we have seen many people take the first...

Going on an African safari

Embarking on a safari adventure is a bucket list experience for many, and for good reason. The opportunity to see some of the world’s most incredible animals in their natural habitat is truly unforgettable! However, for those who are new to the world of safari, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. 4...

Bushwise and the SAWC welcome two new scholarship recipients from local communities

In June 2022, Bushwise and the Southern African Wildlife College (the SAWC) welcomed the first group of scholarship recipients under our new collaboration. In January 2023, two new field guide candidates arrived on campus. Let’s hear their stories and how they realised this was the career they always wanted! 3 min read Ziphozonke Zwane Born...

What I enjoy most about being a field guide trainer

What is it like to be a Bushwise trainer? In this blog Wayne Lubbe shares his experience with teaching and learning from aspiring field guides. 3 min read We’re always learning There are many challenges that come with being in charge of future field guides’ training. One thing I find challenging, but also extremely satisfying,...