Keeping pace with the new events in South Africa, The Nature College launched its range of distance learning products. The Nature College is committed to job creation. Realizing that this is one of the most urgent issues in South Africa, we see it as our duty to provide the skills necessary to fill the jobs that will be created.
The following distance learning products are available:
- Nature Site Guide L2 Local Guide (fully available)
The Nature Site Guide L2 Local distance learning qualification was created with local people in mind, seeking employment in the lodge industry. The program is affordable and learners can set their own pace for the learning period. Typically such a person will work as a guide on one of the lodges bordering the Kruger National Park. Local guides will have a good working knowledge of the local area. Assessment for the qualification consists of a workbook, a written examination and a practical evaluation. Typically this program takes candidates about 4 to 6 months to complete.
This program is designed specifically for learners in the surrounding area of Kruger National Park. Assessors are available at request in Hazyview and Pretoria for learners for assistance. An additional option is available for web supplemented online classes. Practical observer game drives are the learner’s responsibility to arrange. We provide a regional contact list of safari operators and guidance on how to approach them – taking initiative is the first step to becoming a professional guide.
Tailor made packages for the Nature Site Guide Local Guide can also be made for corporate clients. Please contact us for special requests.
Distance Learning with Online classes: R 5775.00 per person (Incl VAT) – Cost includes study material, practical assessment and written examination. Access to recorded online classes are optional R575 once-off.
- Nature Site Guide L2 Regional Guide (fully available)
After operating for a few years as local guide, the developing guide may aspire to operate over larger areas, spreading his wings so to speak towards other destinations. Our regional guide program qualifies the aspiring guide with a regional knowledge of his/her area. This allows the guide to operate over larger areas. The learning material for this level bridges the gap between local guide and biome guide, improving the pass rate of candidates. This distance learning program is also available for aspiring new guides wishing to qualify on a higher standard. Assessment for the qualification consists of a workbook, a written examination and a practical evaluation.
Practical observer game drives are the learner’s responsibility to arrange. We provide a regional contact list of safari operators and guidance on how to approach them — taking initiative is the first step to becoming a professional guide.
Distance Learning with Online classes: R 9770,00 per person (Incl VAT) – Cost includes study material, access to online classes, practical assessment and written examination.
- Nature Site Guide L4 Biome Guide (fully available)
The level 4 qualification is considered the professional guide qualification. A guide that qualifies for this kind of appointment has achieved the level 4 qualification with a several years of practical Guiding experience and an excellent interpreting ability. They are capable of explaining phenomena at basic scientific levels. This is why a solid foundation is so important as it creates the basis on which to build their advanced Guiding skills. Applicants need to have minimum of NQF 2 Nature Guide qualification and 1 year practical workplace experience.
Distance Learning cost: R 12 650,00 per person (Incl VAT) – Cost includes study material, practical assessment and 3 written examinations.