At Bhejane Nature Training we develop Nature Guides and Conservation Entrepreneurs with a strong character and proud work ethic.
Join us to become a part of the Zululand Conservation Legacy...
FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide
The FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide Course is the first step toward the much sought after FGASA Lead Trails Guide Qualification, and the logical next step for many guides that have completed their FGASA NQF 2 (now called FGASA Apprentice Guide) qualification.
Course Overview
On completion of the FGASA Apprentice Trails guide qualification, you will not be able to legally operate as a Trails Guide yet, but if you meet all criteria you will gain enrolment into the FGASA Apprentice Trails Guide Programme to start gaining the required additional hours and experience to eventually qualify as a Lead Trails Guide.
The FGASA Trails Guide Programme is ideal for any guide that wishes to specialise in walking with guests in areas with potentially dangerous game. The Qualification covers knowledge and skills required for:
- Competent handle and use of heavy calibre guiding rifles.
- Rifle ballistics, Maintenance and Care, and Rifle Handling Ethics.
- Situational awareness for conducting trails and walks on foot with guests in wilderness areas where dangerous game occur.
- Navigation and Orientation Skills.
- In depth knowledge of Africa’s large herbivores and predators.
- Field skills for tracking and observing potentially dangerous game.
- Trails Guiding principles and ethics.
- Guest safety and comfort considerations.
- Team work and communication skills required by Lead and Back-up Guiding Teams.
- Walking Fitness for trails guides.
Course Duration
- 6 Weeks
Course Fees 2025
- R72 000
Course Dates 2025
- 31 March – 9 May 2025
- 12 May – 20 June 2025 (FULL)
- 16 June – 25 July 2025
- 11 Aug – 19 September 2025
Included in the Course Fee
- All meals and accommodation.
- Bhejane Shirt and Cap.
- PFTC and ARH Training and Assessment.
- FGASA Trails guide Theory Exams.
- FGASA Track and Sign Assessment
- FGASA Learning Materials.
- Rifle Hire and Ammunition.
Excluded in the Course Fee
- Personal Gear and Equipment.
- Prescribed Reference Books.
- Meals on off days.
- Excess ammunition if you exceed the allocated practice / assessment rounds.
Certification
- PFTC Knowledge of the Firearms Control Act.
- PFTC Handle and Use of Manually Operated Rifle for Personal Purposes.
- PFTC Handle and Use of Manually Operated Rifle for Business Purposes.
- Zulu Rangers Firearm Training Proficiency Certification.
Admission Requirements
- Fully paid up Member of FGASA.
- FGASA Apprentice Nature Guide (NQF 2 or old Level 1).
- Good level of Physical and Mental Fitness.
- Improving upper body and core strength prior to a Firearm Training Course is highly recommended.
