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FGASA ©2013 2
FGASA CONTACT DETAILS
Tel: 011 – 886 8245
Fax: 011 – 886 8084
Email:
[email protected] (Managing Director)
[email protected] (Operations Director)
[email protected] (Standards Director - Training providers/Assessors/Corporate
members)
[email protected] (Theory examinations, applications, results and payments,
books, study material, orders & payments)
[email protected] (New member application process & payments)
[email protected] (Cards /FGASA Certificates/Assessments/Competency letters/
First Aid & payments)
[email protected] (CATHSSETA Certificates/Field News magazine/Junior Membership)
Web-site: www.fgasa.co.za
Postal address: P.O. Box 4432 Cresta 2118 South Africa
Physical Address:
Petrob House 5TH Floor, East Wing 343 Surrey Avenue Ferndale (Randburg)
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12
th edition – March 2013
THE FIELD GUIDES ASSOCIATION
OF SOUTHERN AFRICA
Reg No. 2004/003844/08
Member 827
613/P/000004/2004
GENERAL INFORMATION GUIDE
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GENERAL INFORMATION GUIDE
COMPILED BY
GRANT HINE
Copyright © THE FIELD GUIDES ASSOCIATION OF SOUTHERN AFRICA 2012. No part of this FGASA General Information Guide may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior written permission from the Directors of The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa.
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CONTENTS page
1. INTRODUCTION 9
1.1 The purpose of this information guide 9
1.2 Introduction to FGASA 9
1.3 The aims of FGASA 10
1.4 The benefits of membership with FGASA 10
2. GUIDING AS A PROFESSION 11
2.1 The definition of a Tourist Guide 11
2.2 The aims of Guiding 11
2.3 A brief introduction to guiding qualifications 12
3. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Rules & Requirements) 13
3.1 Who can become a member of FGASA? 13
3.2 How do I become a member of FGASA? 13
3.3 How do I make a payment to FGASA? 14
3.4 What do I get once I have joined FGASA? 15
3.5 How do I attain a FGASA qualification? 15
3.6 When will I be awarded the FGASA qualification? 15
3.7 What qualifications can I attain through FGASA? 16
How do I become a member and get a FGASA qualification - Flow chart 17
3.8 What procedure do I follow to write a FGASA theory examination? 18
3.9 How do I get my theory evaluation results? 20
3.10 How do I use the FGASA Logbook? 21
3.11 When do I get a membership card and certificate? 22
3.12 How do I change my postal address with FGASA? 22
3.13 How does FGASA communicate with its members? 22
3.14 What are the FGASA office hours? 23
3.15 How do I contact FGASA? 23
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4. FGASA QUALIFICATIONS – ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, SYLLABUS
OUTLINES & PRESCRIBED LEARNING MATERIAL
25
4.1 Introduction 25
4.2 Nature Guide Categories 25
Local Nature Guide 25
Level 1 Nature Guide 28
Level 2 Nature Guide 31
How to get a FGASA Level 2 Qualification - Flow chart 36
Level 3 Advanced Nature Guide 37
How to get a FGASA Level 3 Qualification - Flow chart 39
Level 1 Marine Guide 41
4.3 Tracker Categories 43
Tracker Level 1 43
Tracker Level 2 45
Tracker Level 3 47
Tracker Level 4 49
Senior Tracker & Master Tracker 49
Scout Qualification 49
4.4 Dangerous Game Qualifications 50
Back-up Trails Guide 50
The FGASA Back-up Trails Guide Qualification - Flow chart 56
Trails Guide 57
The FGASA Trails Guide Qualification - Flow chart 58
Advanced Trails Guide 59
The FGASA Advanced Trails Guide Qualification - Flow chart 60
The FGASA Rifle Handling Certificates 62
The FGASA Rifle Handling Certificates - Flow chart 64
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SKS Dangerous Game 65
4.5 Birding Qualifications 69
Local Bird Guide 69
Regional Bird Guide 70
SKS Birding 73
How do I get a FGASA birding Qualification – Flow Chart 77
4.6 Biome Guiding Qualifications 78
Biome Guide 78
National Biome Guide 80
4.7 Horse Guiding Qualifications 80
Assistant Horse Guide 81
Lead Horse Guide 82
Advanced Lead Horse Guide 85
The Horse Guiding Qualifications (Non-dangerous Game) - Flow chart 86
Dangerous Game Assistance Horse Guide 87
Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide 87
Advanced Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide 89
The Horse Guiding Qualifications (Dangerous Game) - Flow chart 90
4.8 Wildflower Guiding Qualifications 91
Local Wildflower guide 91
Regional Wildflower guide 91
SKS Wildflowers 94
4.9 Additional FGASA Certificates (Add-on certificates) 97
4.10 FGASA Knowledge Certificates (Associate members) 98
Biome knowledge Certificate 98
Introduction to South Africa knowledge Certificate 98
Design and Research Certificate 98
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Safety and Emergency knowledge Certificate 98
Birding Knowledge Certificate 99
Guiding Tourism Management Knowledge Certificate 99
Guiding Conservation Management Knowledge Certificate 99
Commercial Cave Knowledge Certificate 100
FGASA/sappi Tree Knowledge Certificates 100
4.11 Guiding Registration Categories 101
Site Guide/Regional Guide/Provincial Guide/National Guide 101
Unit standards, Skills Programme and National Certificates 102
4.12 Guide Registration in South Africa 104
Registration as a Tourist Guide 104
The requirements for Guide Registration 105
5. THE FGASA GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND CODE OF CONDUCT 106
THE STRUCTURE OF FGASA 108
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1. INTRODUCTION
1.1 THE PURPOSE OF THIS INFORMATION GUIDE
The purpose of this General Information Guide is to:
Provide you with an introduction to the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa
Give you detailed information and guidelines to the following:
Rules, regulations and requirements set by FGASA
The basic principles of Guiding
Training and assessment of Guides
The Syllabus outline for all the FGASA qualifications
Entry requirements for all qualifications
Prescribed learning material for each qualification
Further recommended reading for each qualification
The Articles and Memorandum of the Association
The FGASA guiding Code of Conduct
1.2 INTRODUCTION TO FGASA
The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) was formally established in 1990, by a group of professional guides aiming to set a standard for nature guiding practice. It was registered in 2005 as a Section 21 Company not for gain (Registration no. 2004/003844/08). FGASA represents individual Tourist Guides, Nature, Culture and Adventure guides, Trackers and organisations involved in offering professional guiding services to members of the public.
FGASA is an accredited provider with the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport, Sector Education Training Authority (CATHSSETA). The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa has set guiding standards for many years and continues to maintain the highest standards within the guiding industry. In conjunction with CATHSSETA within the National Qualifications Framework, FGASA promotes the standards for guiding throughout southern Africa in the form of:
A standard outcomes-based training syllabus
A code of ethics and a set of guiding principles
An assessment system based on high standards of competence
An effective training-course endorsement system
A valid recognised First Aid Certificate requirement
The philosophy of FGASA is one of promoting a high standard of tourist guiding,
skills development, and job creation within the tourism industry.
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1.3 THE AIMS OF FGASA
Provide educational opportunities to promote the conservation and rehabilitation of the cultural and natural heritage of southern Africa.
To maintain and serve a professional association of highly-trained tourist guides, tour operators and hospitality institutes.
To promote a culture of professional guiding based on a strong ethical, well-informed, safety conscious approach that provides the visitor to southern Africa with a pleasant and memorable experience.
To fully commit to the development and implementation of the national qualifications, promoting the development of all tourist guides including historically disadvantaged individuals, as a part of the South African transformation process.
To promote the development of guides through the use of training programmes that conform to high standards of learner development.
To promote the highest standards of guide assessment by appointing fully qualified and experienced assessors.
1.4 BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP WITH FGASA
Qualifications: Qualifications are of a recognised and respected standard.
Assessments: Practical assessments are conducted at a professional level.
FGASA bookshop: Members are entitled to buy books at discounted prices.
Magazine & Newsletter: Members are kept informed by a colour tri-annual magazine and a monthly on-line newsletter.
Website: Informative website with up to date membership, qualifications and exam results.
Learner support: Professional support available to all FGASA learners.
Job market: Provide members with job market information
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2. GUIDING AS A PROFESSION
2.1 Definition of a Tourist guide
For the purpose of this General Information Guide the term “Tourist guide” applies to all individuals carrying out the role of a guide be they a Nature guide, Culture guide or Adventure guide depending on their speciality within the tourism industry.
The term “Game Ranger” is often used to refer to a “field guide” or “nature guide”. The term “Game ranger” refers to a person whose concern is mainly with the conservation management of a specific area, and this person does not usually deal with the general public in an educational role.
FGASA equates the term “Tourist guide” with the term “Field Guide” be they working as a Nature, Culture or Adventure guide, given that guides operate out in the “field” of the tourism industry.
Tourist guiding in South Africa is fairly diverse in terms of the sub-categories of guiding types. There are three broad types of guiding which determine the main focus of the guided experience, namely; Nature, Culture and Adventure guiding. Within each of these guiding types there are a large number of specialities which require very specific training, for example a nature guide may specialise in Birding, Dangerous animals, Horse-guiding, Tracking, Commercial cave guiding, Wild flowers, Biome-guiding, Coastal-marine guiding, Scuba-guiding to name a few. Within the field of culture guiding a guide may specialise in Archaeology, Rock art, Cultural centre guiding, Battlefield guiding and Indigenous Knowledge systems guiding. An Adventure guide may conduct a guided experience within a large number of specialities such as Cable-touring, Hiking, Abseiling, Bungee-jumping, Mountain biking, River tripping, Kloofing, Sea kayaking, Quad biking and Archery and this list is almost endless.
Some guides may choose to be a specialist guide either in Nature, Culture or Adventure, while others become guides who are diversely competent and may conduct guided experiences which include Nature, Culture and some of the specialist adventure guiding activities. No matter what type of guiding is carried out, all tourist guides have to undergo training and be assessed as competent within their specific fields.
Tour guiding involves the guiding of people on tours in specific areas, provinces or throughout the entire country. Guiding may take place in national parks, game reserves, botanical gardens, nature reserves, cities, museums, battlefield sites, outdoor adventure areas and other places of interest, with a focus on the natural and cultural heritage of the country.
The Tourist guide acts as a link between the natural and cultural surroundings and the clients, taking on an educational role. The Tourist guide provides a learning experience in a manner that the individuals learn more from the environmental and cultural interaction in the company of the tourist guide than they would without the presence of the guide.
2.2 The aims of guiding
The aims of guiding are to reveal and expose people to the natural and cultural heritage, history, folklore and the beauty of the country, creating an awareness of the complexities of the natural and cultural environment, by sharing factual knowledge and meaningful interpretation of the country‟s heritage. Tourist guiding in South Africa is carried out within the framework of providing a high standard and quality service with the safety and enjoyment of people as a priority.
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2.3 A brief introduction to guiding qualifications
To work as a Tourist guide in South Africa a qualification is required that is attained through an accredited tourist guide training provider. Training providers are at present accredited with the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA).
To gain a qualification in tourist guiding a learner will have to undergo training in a specific field of guiding and then go through an assessment process in order to be declared competent for that specific field of guiding. The minimum required qualification for a tourist guide is known as a skills programme. A skills programme consists of a number of unit standards that provide the guide with the skills to carry out a particular type of guiding. For example, an entry level Nature Guide will have to have been declared competent for the skills programme which consists of two unit standards: “Create a guided experience for customers” and “Conduct a guided nature experience in a limited geographical area”.
This skills programme will qualify the guide to operate within a specific guiding site such as a specific Game reserve, a Botanical garden or a National Park. The learner would go through a theoretical assessment and then a practical assessment within his/her guiding site of choice. A learner may be declared competent by the registered FGASA assessor to guide in more than one particular guiding site.
In order for a guide to operate over an entire Province of South Africa, s/he will have to be declared competent for the Further Education and Training Certificate (FETC) in Tourism Guiding which consists of about 30 compulsory unit standards. Once a guide has attained the FETC in Tourism Guiding for a single Province then s/he can start to add the other provinces by going through training and assessment in order to be declared competent for the other Provinces. Once the guide has been declared competent for all 9 provinces in South Africa s/he can then register with NDT as a National Tourist Guide.
To qualify as a Tourist guide a learner will need to attain:
A Skills programme (made up of specialist unit standards) or
A Further Education & Training Certificate in Tourism: Guiding (made up of core, fundamental and elective unit standards)
The type of qualification the learner has been declared competent for, will determine where the guide is able to operate, namely:
In a Site,
Throughout a Region,
In an entire Province or
At a National level (All nine Provinces)
The Guide‟s ability to guide within a specialist field of guiding within the Nature, Culture or Adventure tourist guiding specialities will also be determined by what speciality the guide has been declared competent for.
More detailed information on each FGASA qualification can be found in
Section 4 of this General Information Guide.
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3. FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (Rules & Requirements)
1. WHO CAN BECOME A MEMBER OF FGASA? Anybody can become a FGASA member.
For Adult membership you need to be over the age of 18. (This is in order to write the exams, do workbooks and be practically assessed)
The Junior membership is for school learners including categories for both Primary and High school learners. (Certificates are issued on successful completion of workbooks)
Membership is for anybody who would like to:
Follow a career in guiding
Improve their knowledge of wildlife, conservation and culture
Do a non-guiding Knowledge Certificate as an Associate member
Gain a recognised guiding qualification
Support the development of professional guides
Gain a recognised tracker qualification
Attain a specialist guiding qualification
Register with Department of Tourism as a legal guide
2. HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER OF FGASA? (Refer to the flow chart on page 17)
You can register online as a new member on the FGASA website: www.fgasa.org.za making sure to follow all the required steps for registration.
or you can obtain a Membership Application form from FGASA. It can be sent to you via fax or email.
Download the form off the FGASA website: www.fgasa.org.za Look for it under
the MEMBERSHIP „dropdown box‟. Make sure you use the correct form depending
on where you are from: either a South African, from Sub-Saharan Africa or an
International learner from another country.
The application form can be collected at the Johannesburg office
Complete the application form by filling out all the required details.
Sign the FGASA Code of Conduct attached to the application form (Compulsory).
Pay the FGASA fees for registration, annual subscription and learning materials into the relevant account as indicated on the Application form.
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On successful completion of the application and payment of relevant fees you will receive:
The Level 1 Learner Support Pack, Workbook and assessment sheets The Level 1 Learner Manual The Guiding Skills Manual A Guiding Log book
3. HOW DO I MAKE A PAYMENT TO FGASA?
Fees may be paid by cheque or can be paid directly into one of FGASA‟s bank accounts. Online
payment can be made by credit card or SID. Please do not send cash by post. It does get lost
from time to time, and we cannot take any responsibility for lost cash.
Bank account details: Nedbank Eastgate
Branch no: 192 405
Account no: 1924 221 241
Swift Code: NEDSZAJJ
Your membership number or ID number
OR
Bank account details: ABSA Cresta
Global Branch no: 632005
Account no: 911 932 9308
Swift code: ABSAZAJJ
Your membership number or ID number
IF YOU WANT TO JOIN AS AN ASSOCIATE NON-GUIDE MEMBER AND COMPLETE SOME
OF THE FGASA KNOWLEDGE CERTIFICATES THEN PLEASE COMPLETE THE ASSOCIATE
MEMBER APPLICATION FORMS. (Refer to page 98 on Knowledge Certificates)
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If you pay money directly into the FGASA bank accounts, please ensure that the following is
written on the slip:
Your ID number
And/or FGASA membership number (if you are already a member)
Email / Fax this slip through to the FGASA office (011 – 886 8084), preferably together
with a form or a note explaining what the money is for. From time to time money has been
paid into the FGASA account with no indication whatsoever who the money is from or what it is
for. We have no option but to regard these funds as donations to the Association.
RENEWAL OF MEMBERSHIP (Annual subscription payment)
Registration fees are a once-off payment (unless your membership lapses for more than
18 months)
Subscription fees are renewable on a yearly basis.
Membership is valid for one calendar year from the date you join the Association (for
example; the month of March of one year to March of the next year).
Membership renewal reminders are emailed the month before your membership expires.
4. WHAT DO I GET ONCE I HAVE JOINED FGASA?
As soon as your application form and relevant payment (with proof of payment) for registration and membership has been processed by the FGASA Johannesburg office you will receive the following:
A General Information Guide A Field Guiding Log book (Guide member only) The latest Field News magazine (if available) Level 1 learner Support Pack and Workbook (Guide member only) Level 1 Learner Manual (Guide member only) Guiding Skills Manual (Guide member only)
5. HOW DO I ATTAIN A FGASA QUALIFICATION
There are different criteria and requirements for the various qualifications you can attain through FGASA. Please refer to ‘Section 4’ of this General Information Guide on FGASA qualifications. Find the relevant qualification you require information on and turn to the relevant page. There you will find the process of attaining the relevant FGASA qualification, the entry requirements, the syllabus outlines, the required learning material and recommended reading.
6. WHEN WILL I BE AWARDED THE FGASA QUALIFICATION?
You will be awarded the appropriate FGASA Certificate when:
The FGASA office has proof that you have been declared competent in the
theoretical and the practical assessments and this has been moderated.
(FGASA Local guide and Trackers only go through a practical assessment)
Membership Cards and Certificates are only issued once you have attained a FGASA qualification (Both theoretical and practical competence).
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All your required FGASA fees are fully paid up for the current year.
You have submitted a copy of a valid (current) recognised First Aid certificate to the
FGASA Johannesburg office. (Trackers do not need to have a First Aid certificate)
7. WHAT QUALIFICATIONS CAN I ATTAIN THROUGH FGASA?
FGASA is a CATHSSETA accredited training provider for tourism guiding in South Africa. The
equivalent CATHSSETA qualifications can be attained through FGASA, thus allowing you to
attain the required National Skills Program Certificates and Qualifications. FGASA is continually
adding qualifications to their scope in terms of CATHSSETA accreditation. At present some of
the national qualifications/skills programmes can be attained through FGASA. There are a
number of qualifications which can be attained through FGASA which are not registered with
SAQA at present. Any learner who attains a qualification / skills programme which is not yet
registered will be rpl‟d (recognition of prior learning) as soon as the qualification / skills
programme is registered.
Nature Guide Categories Rifle Handling Certificates
Local Nature Guide FGASA Basic Rifle Handling
Level I Nature Guide FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling
Level II Nature Guide Horse Guiding Qualifications (Non-Dangerous Game)
Level III Nature Guide Assistant Horse Guide
Lead Horse Guide
Marine Guide Category Advance Lead Horse Guide
Level 1 Marine Guide Horse Guiding Qualifications (Dangerous Game)
Dangerous Game Qualifications Dangerous Game Assistant Horse Guide
Back-up Trials Guide Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
VPDA Certificate Dangerous Game Advanced Lead Horse Guide
Trails Guide Wildflower Qualifications
Advanced Trails Guide Specialist Wildflower Guide
SKS Dangerous Game SKS Wildflowers
Birding Qualifications Biome Guiding Qualifications
Local Bird Guide Biome Guide
Regional Bird Guide National Biome Guide
SKS(Birding) Other Certificates
Tracker Qualifications Commercial Cave Knowledge Certificate
Tracker Level I South Africa General Knowledge Certificate
Tracker Level II Minimise & Manage Safety & Emergency Incidents
Tracker Level III Research and Design Certificate
Tracker Level IV Guiding Conservation Management Certificate
Senior Tracker Guiding Tourism Management Certificate
Master Tracker FGASA/sappi Tree Knowledge Certificates
Scout Qualification Bird Knowledge Certificate
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HOW DO I BECOME A MEMBER AND GET A FGASA GUIDING QUALIFICATION?
No
Yes
No
Yes
You will have to complete
the FGASA Membership
Application form.
Have you completed a FGASA Membership Application
form and signed the Code of Conduct on the second page?
If you have made all
payments please contact
the office to make sure
they have received your
payment and the proof of
payment.
Yes
No
Yes
You are now eligible to be practically assessed. Have you
submitted your workbooks to the FGASA assessor?
No You will need to complete
an exam application form,
make payment and submit
proof of payment with the
application form to the
FGASA office.
Have you gone through a self-study programme and
completed the FGASA Level 1 Workbooks or have you
attended a FGASA course.
Have you received the FGASA General Information guide,
logbook, the latest Field News magazine, Learner Support
Pack & Workbook and the Level 1 Learner Manual &
Guiding Skills Manual
Have you completed and submitted an examination
application form with proof of payment to the FGASA
office?
Yes
You will need to complete
the workbooks during self
study or on a FGASA
course.
Have you passed the FGASA theory examination?
You will need to make
payment and send proof of
payment with the
application forms to the
FGASA office.
Have you made the relevant payments into the FGASA bank
account and sent proof of payment with the application
form to the FGASA office: Registration fee / Annual
subscription /Payment for learning materials? Email an ID
photograph of yourself for your membership card. No
Membership
No
Have you been declared competent for the FGASA practical
assessment?
No You will need to submit
your completed workbooks
to the FGASA assessor.
No
You will need to be re-
assessed practically for the
FGASA Level 1 qualification.
Yes
Yes
Yes
You will be awarded the FGASA Level 1 Nature Site Guide (NQF2) Certificate, Membership card
and a Letter of competence to take to the Dept of Tourism to register as a guide.
Do you have a valid and current First Aid Certificate? No
You will need to attend a
course and attain a valid
First Aid Certificate.
Yes
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8. WHAT PROCEDURE DO I FOLLOW TO WRITE A FGASA THEORY EXAMINATION?
8.1 The Level 1 theory examination
The FGASA theory examination is an assessment tool used to determine your theoretical
knowledge pertaining to the different levels of guiding qualifications. Examination sittings are
held four times per year in centres throughout southern Africa. Some centres (indicated on
the exam application form) are used frequently, but others are arranged on an ad hoc basis
to suit candidates as best as we can with the facilities available. Normally, all theoretical
evaluations take place at 10h00. (Times at individual venues may change – you will be
informed of any changes)
Each national sitting examination has a closing date for entry (1 month before the
examination date). Please ensure that you send in your application and payment for the
relevant examination before the closing date.
Process to follow when applying to write a theory examination:
Paid-up members can register online for an exam
The examination application form can be collected at the Johannesburg office
It can be sent to you via fax or email on request.
Download the examination application form off the FGASA website: www.fgasa.org.za Look for it under the EXAMINATIONS „dropdown box‟.
Complete the examination application form by filling out all the required details.
Pay the FGASA examination fee into the FGASA account (Refer to Point 3 of this section)
Email/Fax the examination application form and proof of payment for the examination to the FGASA office.
Remember to confirm the venue and starting time of your examination 10 days before the examination date by logging into your profile on the website or calling the office.
8.2 The Level 2 & 3 theory examination
Following the normal progression of skills development,
before you can write the Level 2 examination you will
have to have fully qualified with the Level 1 qualification
(both theory and practical) and the same applies to
attaining the full level 2 qualification before you write the
Level 3 theory examination.
Remember: To write the final Level 2 theory examination you will have to have your logbook
signed off indicating that you have accumulated 260 days active guiding experience. To
write the final Level 3 theory examination you will have to have your logbook signed off
indicating that you have accumulated a total of 520 days active guiding experience. (This
total will include the already accumulated days for Level 2 and is not an additional 520 days)
Nobody will be allowed to apply for a National FGASA theory examination after the closing date. The closing date is one month before the set examination date. The closing dates are made available well in advance.
FGASA ©2013 19
Upon proof of extensive guiding experience (logged), a candidate may ask special
permission to write the Level 2 or 3 theory examination directly. This may be granted on
condition that, should the candidate not prove competent, he/she has to then go back
and complete the Level 1 theory examination and practical assessment. All the relevant
Electives for FGASA Level 2 and Level 3 need to have been completed before the relevant
theory examinations can be applied for.
8.3 General theory examination information
Confirmation of the examination venue
Candidates are urged to check the FGASA website or to phone the office 10 days before the
exam to confirm the venue and time of the exam, especially if they are not writing at one of
the established centres. Members who have cell phone numbers indicated on their profile
will be notified by SMS. If for some reason a candidate has to cancel an exam session and
lets the Johannesburg office know beforehand, the exam fee will be transferred to the next
available exam session. However if the FGASA Johannesburg office is not informed
beforehand, the examination fee will be taken as a donation and the candidate will
have to pay again for the next theory examination.
Oral examinations
The opportunity to be examined for the theoretical component by means of an oral
examination is granted to individuals who cannot read or write.
The oral examinations will however not take place on the same day as the FGASA
National theory examination sittings.
You will need to apply separately to the FGASA office with valid reasons if you want to
undergo an oral assessment for the Level 1 theory examination.
The date for an oral examination will depend on the availability of an examiner in your
area of operation.
As some degree of literacy is essential to get to level 3, oral evaluations will normally
be restricted to Level 1 and Level 2.
Oral evaluations will be more a case of the assessor helping with the interpretation of
questions, while a Level 3 candidate should be literate enough to complete the
evaluation in writing.
It is FGASA policy not to make old examination papers available. The type of
exam questions you can expect at the different levels under each module can be
found in the Support pack / workbooks purchased from the FGASA bookshop.
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Special examination sittings
The FGASA endorsed training providers are entitled to request a special theoretical examination sitting to be held at their premises at the end of each course that they offer.
Learners still need to go through the process of application if they are attending a course offered by a FGASA endorsed training provider if they want to write a special examination.
It is important that you ensure that the training provider you are being trained by confirms with the FGASA office that you are eligible to write this examination.
Other special examination sittings can be arranged depending on how many learners there are at the specific venue. Special examination sittings may be held in the Johannesburg office on request and adequate reasons provided.
If you are permitted to write a special examination sitting and you do not pass you may not write another special sitting for the same Level. You will have to apply and re-write the examination at the next available FGASA National examination date.
9. HOW DO I GET MY THEORY EXAMINATION RESULTS?
For all qualifications that require a theory assessment, the examination papers from the various
regions are returned to the office where they are marked, moderated and the marks entered
onto the FGASA database. Only then can the latest examination results be released. FGASA
has 30 examination venues in Southern Africa, and it takes time to get all the answer sheets
back to the Johannesburg office, marked and moderated.
This process takes three weeks. Examination results will then be published on the FGASA
website under the member profile and can only be accessed if the member is currently paid up.
Please do not phone the Johannesburg office for examination results before a period of three
weeks after a theory examination date. [Note that the final results can only be made available
from the Johannesburg office after all examination papers have been marked and moderated].
In principle all examination papers with percentages between 69% and 75% are remarked
during the moderation process. If you get 72% for an evaluation, for example, you can be
assured that the moderator has done all he/she can to increase the marks by checking
ambiguous questions, etc. but simply cannot "find" and allocate more marks for your answers.
Theory examination results are only made available by the FGASA office 3 weeks
after the examination has been written. Do not call the office for results before a
period of three weeks after the theory examination date. Markers may not provide
learners with results.
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10. HOW DO I USE THE FGASA LOGBOOK?
Logbooks are an integral part of the recognition of prior learning and
experience requirements for the FGASA qualification system.
The Guiding Logbook (Green)
You can start entering any relevant guiding experience in the
logbook
With relevant experience logged, you may then apply to be
assessed for higher FGASA level evaluations.
If you have already been guiding for some time, you may backdate
the logbook.
Fill in your previous guiding experience (even if you were not previously a member) - in as
much detail as possible
Have it verified and signed by your previous employers where you are able to.
Reference letters may also be sent to the FGASA office with the logbook.
At present any superior can sign off your guiding experience in the logbook, but if that person
has passed FGASA evaluations him/herself, so much the better.
The amount of detail required depends on your kind of operation:
If you do one trip a month, the details of every trip should be provided in the logbook.
If you do two game drives and a walk every day, a monthly summary of these should be
recorded in the logbook.
It is very important that you sign every page, and have a superior sign on the same page,
preferably with some comment pertaining to the experience (yours and/or the clients).
The purpose of the logbook is to assess your guiding ability and experience from a distance:
The more relevant information you provide for this purpose, the better.
Please write down "difficult" encounters you may have had with e.g. animals, clients,
weather conditions or type of terrain and how you handled the situation.
A separate Dangerous Game Logbook is available for members wanting to attain the Back-up Trails Guide, Trails Guide, Advanced Trails Guide and SKS (Dangerous Game) qualifications.
This logbook is far more extensive than the normal guiding logbook and will require more
details for the dangerous game encounters on foot.
This logbook is to be signed by your Mentor (Who has a Full Trails Guide qualification)
and then sent to the FGASA office to be verified and signed off.
For all your normal guiding experience make use of the green guiding logbook, only
make use of the Dangerous Game logbook for recording actual encounters with
dangerous game as per the definition of encounters. (Refer to Section 4 in this
information guide under the Trails Guide section)
Refer to the information provided in the FGASA logbooks on how to go about completing the
information required.
FGASA ©2013 22
11. WHEN DO I GET A MEMBERSHIP CARD & CERTIFICATE?
Membership cards are issued to all members who are fully paid-up for the current year and
have been declared competent for both the theoretical and practical evaluations for relevant
FGASA qualifications. (Thus have attained a full FGASA qualification)
Membership cards will be issued when the FGASA office has:
Verified you are a current paid-up member of the Association
Confirmed you have been declared competent for a relevant FGASA qualification
A copy of your valid First Aid Certificate (Level 1/or higher)
Received a photograph of you, emailed to the FGASA office. This photograph will be
imported into the FGASA database for all future membership cards. If you cannot email
a passport-size photograph then post one to the FGASA office. This picture will then be
scanned and placed on the database to be used for your membership card. (Please
ensure if posting a photograph that your name is on the back of the photograph)
Certificates will be issued when the FGASA office has:
Verified you are a current paid-up member of the Association
Confirmed you have been declared competent for a relevant FGASA qualification
A copy of your valid First Aid Certificate (Level 1/or higher)
12. WHAT DO I DO WHEN I CHANGE MY POSTAL ADDRESS OR CONTACT DETAILS?
Please keep the FGASA office informed of any changes to your postal and physical
address and contact details.
If you do not receive your "Field News" magazine, email news-letter or an email reminder
that your annual fees are due, please let the FGASA office know.
It may be due to an incorrect postal address and/or email address, and sometimes things
do go missing in the post.
Please email or fax a copy of any change of address or contact details to the FGASA
office or update your details online as an existing members using your member number,
Id/passport to log in.
13. HOW DOES FGASA COMMUNICATE WITH ITS MEMBERS?
The "Field News" is the official magazine of the Association and is published and distributed three times a year.
This magazine is the best way in which FGASA can keep members up to date of new developments in FGASA and the Tourism Guiding Sector in general.
Members are urged to read the magazine, at least for that purpose.
The magazine is much more than just a newsletter and includes interesting articles (sent in by members), specials offered from the FGASA bookshop and other stores around the country, competitions with prizes and advertisements for interesting events and training programmes.
FGASA ©2013 23
An email newsletter is usually sent to members on a monthly basis informing members of any information regarding FGASA and the guiding industry, the latest theory examination results and any FGASA bookshop specials.
Members may also find detailed information on the FGASA website including a list of the qualified paid-up members and all the latest examination results.
FGASA‟s website: www.fgasa.org.za
14. WHAT ARE THE FGASA OFFICE HOURS?
The FGASA office:
Is open from 07h30 to 16h00 from Monday to Thursday.
Is open on Fridays from 08h00 and closes at 12h00.
Is also closed on all public holidays.
May also be closed on a Monday if a Tuesday is a public holiday.
(Please check the FGASA website for details under the „Latest News‟ section.
Will usually be closed during the December/January school holidays.
FGASA Physical address: Petrob House, 5th Floor
343 Surrey Avenue
Ferndale (Randburg)
15. HOW DO I CONTACT FGASA?
The FGASA office can be contacted either by telephone, fax, email or by post.
FGASA‟s CONTACT INFORMATION
Postal address: P.O. Box 4432 Telephone: 011 - 886 8245
Cresta Fax: 011 - 886 8084
2118 Web-site: www.fgasa.org.za
GPS co-ordinates:
S26deg 0522.3 E27 deg 5957.2
FGASA ©2013 24
Email addresses: Each staff member at the FGASA office has their own email address.
Please make sure that you make use of the appropriate email address for what you require from
the office.
Example: If you want to communicate anything regarding the examinations please make use of
the [email protected] email address. The FGASA bookshop is now included under Exams.
[email protected] (Managing Director)
[email protected] (Operations Director)
[email protected] (Standards Director - Training providers/Assessors/Corporate
members)
[email protected] (Theory examinations, applications, results and payments,
books, study material, orders & payments)
[email protected] (New member application process & payments)
[email protected] (Cards /FGASA Certificates/Assessments/Competency letters/
First Aid & payments)
[email protected] (CATHSSETA Certificates/Field News magazine/Junior Membership)
FGASA ©2013 25
4. FGASA QUALIFICATIONS - ENTRY REQUIREMENTS, SYLLABUS
OUTLINES & PRESCRIBED LEARNING MATERIAL
4.1 Introduction
The Association has a large number of certificates and qualifications, each with their own
requirements in terms of:
Eligibility to enter the qualification
Syllabus and module outlines
Prescribed and recommended reading
Theory assessment and relevant rules
Practical assessment processes and relevant rules.
This section of the information guide will outline all this information under each qualification
offered through FGASA. For detailed information on each qualification in terms of training and
assessment refer to the specific qualification „Learner Support Pack‟ and Workbook purchased
from the FGASA bookshop.
4.2 Nature Guide Categories
The nature Guide categories include:
Local Nature Guide
Level 1 Nature Guide
Level 2 Nature Guide
Level 3 Nature Guide
Level 1 Marine Guide
LOCAL NATURE GUIDE (NQF2) – for illiterate learners only
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a nature guide in a restricted or limited geographical environment. This usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and operate legally as a Local Nature Guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Local Nature Guide practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid Certificate.
Is registered with Dept of Tourism as a legally qualified Nature Site Guide.
The category "Local Guide" was introduced to enable predominantly illiterate learners to attain a qualification (Skills programme) and register to work legally at this level of nature guiding.
FGASA ©2013 26
These learners would possibly have difficulty being theoretically assessed for the FGASA Level 1 qualification due to literacy issues.
How do I get a FGASA Local Guide Qualification?
Once you have become a member with FGASA you can apply for a FGASA Local guide
practical assessment. (There is no theory examination for the Local guide qualification).
If you can read or write you will need to apply for the FGASA Level 1 qualification.
The practical assessment for the Local guide qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA assessor in a guiding area of your choice.
You will need to take the assessor on a guided nature experience in a limited
geographical area (with or without paying clients), preferably with clients.
The practical assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed
on so you may prepare yourself for this assessment.
Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not
come to the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the practical assessment you will have
attained the FGASA Local Nature Guide Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
As a Local Guide learner you will go through a practical assessment, during which time you will be required to prove competence on:
General guiding skills
Basic astronomy
Local history
Weather and climate
Basic ecology
Plants and animals (i.e. birds, mammals, reptiles, etc)
Signs of the bush in your specific area of operation.
On achieving this qualification you will be able to identify the major living and non-living features
of the natural environment in which you operate and interpret them at a level based mainly on
observation.
No literacy skills are required, but the guide needs to be able to communicate in English.
This guide should be able to demonstrate a basic knowledge and understanding of:
Local flora (trees and grasses) – identification, cultural and medicinal uses, interesting features.
Local fauna – identification and behaviour (territoriality and home range, reproductive behaviour, grouping, protective behaviour, feeding, camouflage, signs like sounds, spoor, droppings).
Basic ecological principles (understanding of trophic pyramid, plant-animal interactions). Local cultural history Local topography, vegetation patterns and relationship to soils. Prominent observable features of the night sky.
FGASA ©2013 27
The practical assessment for this qualification is based on the NQF2 Nature Site Guide skills
programme which includes the following two compulsory unit standards:
Create a Guided Experience for Customers (8478)
The learner who achieves this unit standard will be able to create and conduct a guided tourist
experience in a specific local site.
On achievement of this unit standard the learner will understand and be able to:
Establish the needs, limitations and expectations of tourists
Identify and assess locally accessible heritage and natural life resources and plan a guided experience accordingly
Provide informed and entertaining commentary
Apply professional ethics with respect to the site environment
Ensure the health and safety of tourists on the guided experience
Ensure the strict adherence to legal requirements pertaining to the guided experience
Reflect on the guided experience
On completion of this certificate the learner should be ready to develop learning in further, more
complex processes related to creating and conducting guided experiences with customers.
Conduct a guided nature experience in a limited geographical area
Create a guided experience for customers
On achievement of this certificate the learner will understand and be able to:
Identify prominent plants and animals
Demonstrate an understanding of basic animal behavioural patterns and ecological principles
Identify and interpret obvious signs and sounds
Point out and explain evidence of human habitation and briefly relate cultural history
Point out the most prominent stars, planets and constellations
Demonstrate the ability to orientate him/herself in the natural environment
Explain the weather patterns of the area of guiding operation
What learning materials do I need for the Local guide qualification?
1. It is recommended if the learner is able to read that s/he makes use of the Level 1 Learner Manual by Grant & Gillie Hine and the Guiding Skills Manual by Grant Hine to further his/her knowledge.
Recommended guide books to make use of while conducting guided experiences:
Refer to the recommended books under the section for FGASA level 1 recommended books
FGASA ©2013 28
Level I Nature Guide (NQF2)
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a nature site guide in a limited capacity but is in the process of development.
May be operating as a competent guide in a number of different sites. A Site usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided nature experience in a limited geographical area as a FGASA Level 1 (NQF2) nature guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Level 1 theoretical and practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get a FGASA Level 1 Guide Qualification?
Once you have joined the Association as a member of FGASA you can apply to write the
FGASA Level 1 Nature Guide theory examination.
Payment for the theory examination should be made to FGASA in the same manner as
the FGASA fees.
Application and payment for the theory exam can also be made at the same time as your
FGASA membership application payment.
Once you have passed (Competence is measured by achieving at least 75%) the FGASA
level 1 theory examination you can apply to be practically assessed.
The practical assessment for the Level 1 nature guide qualification is carried out by a
registered FGASA assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the
assessor on a guided nature experience in a limited geographical area (with or without
paying clients), preferably with clients.
The practical assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed
on so you may prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the Level 1 Learner
Support Pack for details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the
assessor and does not come to the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Level 1 practical and theoretical
assessment you will have attained the FGASA Level 1 Nature Guide Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
FGASA ©2013 29
What learning materials do I need for the Level 1 nature guide qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
The FGASA Level 1 Learner Support Pack and Workbook
The Level I Learner Manual – Grant and Gillie Hine
The Guiding Skills Manual – Grant Hine
Recommended books to improve you own knowledge:
Any one of these mammal books:
Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa – Chris and Tilde Stuart
Smither‟s Mammals of the Southern Sub-region
Any tree book that includes trees for your area of operation:
How to identify trees – B & P van Wyk Sappi – the regional tree book for your area of operation
Any of the following bird books:
Newman‟s Birds of South Africa – Sappi. Sasol Birds of SA – Sasol. Roberts Bird Guide
Tracking: A photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking
in Southern Africa – Louis Liebenberg
Other books which may be of interest to you:
Beat about the bush Mammals – Trevor Carnaby Birds The inside story – Rael & Helene Loon Frogs and Frogging – du Preez & Carruthers Scorpions of Southern Africa – Leeming Spiders – Filmer Field Guide to Insects of Southern Africa – Picker, Griffiths & Weaving Guide to Grasses – Van Oudtshoorn What‟s that Reptile – Marais How to identify trees – Van Wyk & Van Wyk Stargazing from Game Reserves – Anthony Fairall Game ranger in your backpack (Lowveld area) – Megan Emmett & Sean Pattrick
FGASA ©2013 30
THE SYLLABUS FOR THE NATURE GUIDE LEVEL 1 CATEGORY (NQF2)
The level 1 Nature guide should be able to identify the major living and non-living features of the natural environment in which s/he operates and interpret them at a level based mainly on observation and from an elementary scientific and cultural perspective. As a general guideline, a level 1 Nature guide must have sound knowledge of the history,
geology, plants and animals (i.e. birds, mammals, reptiles, etc) in the specific area of operation.
The FGASA Level 1 Nature Guide Syllabus includes the following modules:
Module Number
MODULE
1. Introduction to the natural environment and the Biomes
2. Creating a guided nature experience
3. Geology
4. Astronomy
5. Weather and Climate
6. Basic Ecology
7. Basic Taxonomy
8. Botany and Grasses
9. Arthropods
10. Amphibians
11. Reptiles
12. Fish
13. Birds
14. Mammals
15. Animal behaviour
16. Conservation management and historical human habitation
For details pertaining to the FGASA Level 1 syllabus and assessment requirements
refer to the FGASA Level 1 Learner Support Pack and workbook.
FGASA ©2013 31
Level II Nature Guide
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a Nature site guide in an advanced capacity but is in the process of further development.
May be operating as a competent guide in a number of different sites. A Site usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
Has a minimum of 1 year (260 days) practical active guiding experience as a nature guide and can conduct a guided nature experience legally as a Level 2 nature guide.
Has the knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided nature experience as a FGASA Level 2 nature guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Level 2 theoretical and practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
Entry requirements for the Level 2 theory examination: The writing of the Level 2 theory
examination is dependent on firstly, having attained a full FGASA Level 1 nature guiding
qualification (both theory and practical competence), and secondly you must have logged a
minimum of 1 year (260 days) of active guiding experience before you can apply for the exam.
(Logged days in your logbook needs to have been verified and signed off by the FGASA office)
Entry requirements for the Level 2 practical assessment:
You will be eligible to apply to be practically assessed for the FGASA Level 2 Nature Guide
Qualification once you have:
Passed (competence is measured by achieving at least 75%) the FGASA Level 2 theory
examination
Logged a minimum of 1 year (260 days) of active guiding experience
Your logbook has been signed off by the FGASA office
Been verified as a currently paid-up member of the Association
Logbook: Your guiding experience must be recorded in the FGASA Logbook issued to you when you joined as a member. If you are joining FGASA and you have already gained a certain amount of guiding experience, you can backdate your logbook with this experience. This guiding experience must be verified and signed by your previous employer(s). Reference letters may be sent with your logbook to the FGASA Johannesburg office. (Refer to the description in the FGASA logbook as to what is required).
Application and payment: If you have attained a full FGASA Level 1 Nature Guiding qualification (both theory and practical) and you have logged 260 days active guiding experience, you are eligible to write the Level 2 theory examination. You will need to send your examination application form and proof of payment for the Level 2 Nature Guide examination to the FGASA office. Remember that examination applications close 1 month before the set national examination sitting. Before you can be theoretically and practically assessed for FGASA Level 2 you will need to send your logbook to the FGASA office for verification and once your logbook experience has been verified (260 days of active guiding experience) you will be eligible to be practically assessed.
FGASA ©2013 32
Before you can be practically assessed you need to provide your assessor with the completed Level 2 workbook including the relevant Elective subjects. The practical evaluation for the Level 2 qualification is carried out by a registered FGASA Assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the assessor on a guided nature experience (with or without paying clients), preferably with clients.
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
you may prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the Level 2 Learner Support Pack for
details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not
come via the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Level 2 practical assessment you will have
attained the FGASA Level 2 Nature Guide Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
What learning materials do I need for the Level 2 qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
The Level I Learner Manual – Grant & Gillie Hine
The Level 2 Learner Manual – Grant Hine
The Guiding Skills Manual – Grant Hine
The FGASA Level 2 Learner Support Pack & Workbook
Recommended books to improve you own knowledge:
1. Beat about the Bush (Mammals) – Trevor Carnaby 2. Beat about the Bush (Birds) – Trevor Carnaby 3. Guide to Grasses of Southern Africa – van Oudtshoorn 4. The Story of Life and the Environment – Jo Van As. et al
5. A photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking in Southern Africa - Louis Liebenberg
Recommended guide books to make use of while conducting guided experiences:
1. Any one of these mammal books:
Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa – C & T Stuart.
Smithers Mammals of Southern Africa
2. Any tree book that includes trees for your area of operation:
Trees of Southern Africa – B & P van Wyk
Sappi – the regional tree book for your area of operation
3. Any one of the following bird books:
Newman‟s Birds of South Africa – Sappi
Sasol Birds of SA – Sasol.
Roberts Field Guide to Birds of Southern Africa
FGASA ©2013 33
4. The following books are also recommended:
Birds The inside story – Rael & Helene Loon
A Complete guide to Frogs of Southern Africa – du Preez & Carruthers
Scorpions of Southern Africa – J. Leeming
Spiders - Filmer
Field Guide to Insects of Southern Africa – Picker, Griffiths & Weaving
Guide to Grasses – Van Oudtshoorn
A complete guide to reptiles of Southern Africa – Marais & Alexandra
A general South African History book.
Stargazing from Game Reserves – Anthony Fairall
The Guides Guide to Guiding – Garth Thompson
Game ranger in your backpack (Lowveld area) – Megan Emmett & Sean Pattrick
THE SYLLABUS FOR THE NATURE GUIDE LEVEL 2 CATEGORY
The FGASA Level 2 nature guide skills programme consists of a number of different aspects which make up the syllabus. The FGASA Level 2 qualification consists of the following modules:
Compulsory Subjects
Care for customers
Conduct a tourist guiding activity
Minimise and manage safety and emergency incidents
Conduct a guided nature experience
Electives:
Conduct a guided biome experience
Conduct a guided birding experience
Research and design a guided experience at a prominent tourism site
The subjects that make up the FGASA Level 2 qualification are assessed by means of various
methods in terms of theory, practical, Portfolio of Evidence workbooks and logged workplace
experience.
FGASA ©2013 34
The subjects:
CARE FOR CUSTOMERS
CONDUCT A TOURIST GUIDING ACTIVITY
CONDUCT A GUIDED NATURE EXPERIENCE
Will be assessed by means of:
Evidence of 260 days active guiding experience (Logged)
The FGASA Level 2 Theory examination
Workbooks – submitted to the assessor
The FGASA Level 2 Practical assessment
In terms of these three subjects the FGASA Level 2 nature guide should be able to point out and explain in terms of elementary scientific theory and cultural belief the features of the natural environment in which s/he operates and putting it into broader ecological context. As a general guideline, the level of scientific understanding is intermediate between Level 1 & 3.
This qualification is distinguished from the Level 1 category predominantly on the depth of knowledge required on similar topics. The Level 2 Nature Guide will need to know all the information contained in the FGASA Level 1 syllabus as well as the information in this part of the Level 2 syllabus.
The FGASA Level 2 Syllabus for these three unit standards includes the following
modules:
Module Number
MODULE
1. Creating a guided nature experience
2. Geology
3. Astronomy
4. Weather and Climate
5. Ecology
6. Taxonomy
7. The Biomes of Southern Africa
8. Botany and Grasses
9. Arthropods
10. Amphibians
11. Reptiles
12. Fish
13. Birds
14. Mammals
15. Animal behaviour
16. Conservation management
17. Historical human habitation
FGASA ©2013 35
The 4th compulsory subject:
MINIMISE AND MANAGE SAFETY AND EMERGENCY INCIDENTS
Will be assessed by means of:
A workbook constituting a Portfolio of Evidence (POE)
ELECTIVE SUBJECTS – ONE OF WHICH HAS TO BE COMPLETED
The Elective subject:
RESEARCH AND DESIGN A GUIDED EXPERIENCE AT A PROMINENT
TOURISM SITE
Will be assessed by means of:
A workbook constituting a Portfolio of Evidence (POE)
The Elective subject:
CONDUCT A GUIDED BIOME EXPERIENCE
Will be assessed by means of:
A workbook constituting a Portfolio of Evidence (POE)
The Elective subject:
CONDUCT A GUIDED BIRDING EXPERIENCE
Will be assessed by means of:
A workbook – submitted to the assessor A slide and sound assessment for relevant birding area(s) A Practical birding assessment
Refer to the information on the Specialist Bird Guiding Qualification in this information book. For details pertaining to the FGASA Level 2 syllabus and assessment requirements refer
to the FGASA Level 2 Learner Support Pack and workbook.
FGASA ©2013 36
ENTRY TO THE FGASA LEVEL 2 NATURE GUIDE QUALIFICATION AND PROCESS
OF ATTAINING THE FGASA LEVEL 2 NATURE GUIDE CERTIFICATE
No
Yes
No
Yes
No
YOU WILL BE AWARDED THE FGASA LEVEL 2 NATURE GUIDE CERTIFICATE
Yes
You will not be permitted
to write the FGASA Level 2
theory examination
Do you have at least 260 days active guiding experience?
This experience can be from anywhere however you must
have conducted the guided experience yourself. (Not just
participated)
You will be eligible to write the FGASA Level 2 Theory examination.
You are eligible to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Level 2 Nature Guide qualification.
Do you already have the
FGASA Level 1 Nature
Guiding qualification?
Have you been declared competent for the FGASA Level
2 Nature Guide practical assessment?
You will have to submit
further evidence to your
assessor for the FGASA
Level 2 Nature Guide
practical requirements.
Yes
No
You will have to apply
to write the FGASA
Level 1 Nature Guide
theory examination.
Yes
No
Submit your logbook to the
FGASA office
Have you completed and submitted the FGASA Level 2
WORKBOOKS to your assessor for assessment? No
You will have to complete
the required FGASA Level 2
Nature Guide WORKBOOKS
and submit them to your
assessor.
No You will have to submit
further evidence to your
assessor.
Have you submitted your logbook with your recorded
active guiding experience to the FGASA office for
verification?
Have you passed the FGASA Level 2 Nature Guide
Theory examination?
You will have to apply and pay to write the FGASA Level 2
Nature Guide Theory exam.
Have you been declared competent for the relevant
FGASA Level 2 Nature Guide WORKBOOKS?
Yes
Yes
L2
FGASA ©2013 37
Level III Advanced Nature Guide
The FGASA Level 3 Nature Guide qualification consists of a number of accumulated certificates, workbook submissions, a theory examination and a practical assessment. The following certificates are compulsory for the Level 3 qualification:
Minimise and Manage Safety and Emergency incidents
Conduct a guided Biome experience (Any Biome)
Conduct a guided Birding experience
Research and design a guided experience at a prominent tourism site
FGASA South African General Knowledge Certificate
FGASA Guiding Tourism Management Certificate
FGASA Guiding Conservation Management Certificate
Conduct an Advanced Guided Nature Experience (theory and practical) - Workbook No1 Some of these certificates you will have already completed while doing the FGASA Level 2
Nature Guide qualification. Those that you have already completed will be recorded in the
FGASA office. You can work on those that you have not yet completed and submit them to the
FGASA office for assessment.
THE THEORY ASSESSMENTS
Theory examination
Entry requirements for the Level 3 theory examination: The writing of the Level 3 theory examination is dependent on firstly, having attained a full FGASA Level 2 nature guiding qualification (both theory and practical competence), secondly you must have logged a minimum of 2 years (520 days) of active guiding experience before you can apply for the exam and thirdly you must have successfully completed all the relevant workbooks including electives.
The theory examination (Only 1 exam) will include questions on the modules indicated in the table below. You will be required to have an understanding of all the information contained in each exam module to ensure that you can answer all the possible questions in the theory examination. Level 3 Learners will need to submit this workbook No1 to the assessor, related to the modules which will also be questioned in the theory examination. (Refer to the table below)
Module
number
MODULE NAME Workbook Theory
examination
1. Life on Earth
2. The diversity of life today
3. How our world works
4. How populations work
5. Communities of life
6. Interactions of life
7. Life in fresh water
8. Life in the oceans
9. Life on land
Workbook
No2
FGASA ©2013 38
THE LEVEL 3 PRACTICAL ASSESSMENT
Entry requirements for the Level 3 practical assessment
You will be eligible to apply to be practically assessed for the FGASA Level 3 Nature Guide
Qualification once you have:
Been verified as a currently paid-up member of the Association
Logged a minimum of 2 years (520 days) of active guiding experience
Your logbook has been signed off by the FGASA office
You have successfully completed Workbook No1 and No2
Passed (been declared competent) the FGASA Level 3 theory examination
The practical assessment: The practical assessment for the FGASA Level 3 qualification takes place while conducting guided experiences with FGASA assessors and clients over at least a two day period.
REQUIRED RESOURCE MATERIAL
The following book is compulsory:
Van As, J. & du Preez, J & Brown, L & Smit, N. 2012.
The Story of Life and the Environment, an African
perspective. Struik Nature publishers. Cape Town
The majority of the answers to the workbook
questions are found in the relevant corresponding
chapters in this book.
Chapter 1 – Life on Earth
Chapter 2 - The diversity of life today
Chapter 3 – How our world works
Chapter 4 – How populations work
Chapter 5 – Communities of life
Chapter 6 – Interactions of life
Chapter 7 – Life in fresh water
Chapter 8 – Life in the oceans
Chapter 9 – Life on land
FGASA ©2013 39
ENTRY TO THE FGASA LEVEL 3 NATURE GUIDE QUALIFICATION AND PROCESS
OF ATTAINING THE FGASA LEVEL 3 NATURE GUIDE CERTIFICATE
No
Yes
You will not be
permitted to write the
FGASA Level 3 theory
examination
Do you have at least 520 days active guiding experience?
This experience can be from anywhere however you must
have conducted the guided experience yourself. (Not just
participated)
You will be eligible to write the FGASA Level 3 Theory examination.
Yes
No
Submit your logbook to the
FGASA office for approval
and verification.
Have you submitted your logbook with your recorded
active guiding experience to the FGASA office for
verification?
L3 Have you completed the workbooks for the following?
Minimise and Manage Safety and Emergency incidents
Conduct a guided Biome experience (Any Biome)
Research and design a guided experience at a prominent tourism site
FGASA South African General Knowledge Certificate
FGASA Guiding Tourism Management
FGASA Guiding Conservation Management
These workbooks are contained in the FGASA Learner Support Pack and Workbook No2.
You will need to successfully
complete all the required
workbooks to be eligible for
the Level 3 Qualification.
The Workbooks need to be
submitted to the FGASA
office
No
Yes
Have you completed the following FGASA Birding specialist assessments - “Conduct a guided Birding Experience” ?
The Birding specialist workbook (In Workbook No2)
The Birding Specialist Slide and Sound assessment for a relevant birding area. (Biome)
The Birding Specialist Practical assessment
You will need to successfully
complete the required
Birding Specialist workbook,
Slide & Sound and the
Birding Practical assessment
to be eligible for the Level 3
Qualification
No
Yes
Have you completed the FGASA Advanced Nature Guide Workbook No1?
This workbook is contained in the FGASA Level 3 Learner Support Pack and Workbook No1.
You will need to successfully
complete the Advanced
nature Guide workbook, to
be eligible for the Level 3
Qualification
No
Yes
FGASA ©2013 40
No
Yes
No
YOU WILL BE AWARDED THE FULL FGASA LEVEL 3 NATURE GUIDE CERTIFICATE
You are eligible to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Level 3 Nature Guide qualification.
Do you already have the
FGASA Level 2 Nature
Guiding qualification?
Have you been declared competent for the FGASA
Level 3 Nature Guide practical assessment?
You will have to prove
competence and/or submit
further evidence to your
assessor for the FGASA
Level 3 Nature Guide
practical requirements.
Yes No
You will have to apply
to write the FGASA
Level 1 Nature Guide
theory examination.
Have you submitted your completed FGASA Level 3 Advanced Nature Guide workbook to your assessor?
This workbook is contained in the FGASA Learner Support Pack and Workbook No1.
No
You will have to submit
your completed FGASA
Advanced Level 3 Nature
Guide workbook to your
assessor.
No You will have to submit
further evidence to your
assessor (workbook No1)
and to the FGASA office
(Workbook No2).
Have you passed the FGASA Level 3 Nature Guide Theory
examination?
You will have to apply and pay to write the FGASA Level 3
Nature Guide Theory exam.
Have you been declared competent for the relevant
FGASA Level 3 Nature Guide WORKBOOKS No1 & No2?
Yes
Yes
Yes
FGASA ©2013 41
Level 1 Marine Guide
The guide attaining this qualification will be able to research, design and conduct a guided
coastal marine experience in a limited geographical area.
This guide will be able to present a well informed
interpretation of general aspects of the South African
coastal marine environment and specific aspects of
the natural phenomena and life on the site in question
in an entertaining manner to clients. He/she will also
be able to point out and explain interesting features of
the living components encountered in the coastal
marine environment.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a Coastal Marine site guide in a limited capacity but is in the process of development.
May be operating as a competent guide in a number of different sites. A Site usually refers to a particular Coastal Marine Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Wildlife Sanctuary, etc.
Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a limited guided Coastal Marine experience as a FGASA Level 1 Nature Guide in the Coastal-Marine environment.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide theoretical and practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get a FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide Qualification?
Once you have joined the Association as a member of FGASA you can apply to write the
FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide theory examination.
Payment for the theory examination should be made to FGASA in the same manner as the
FGASA fees. Application and payment for the theory exam can also be made at the same time
as your FGASA membership application payment.
Once you have passed (Competence is measured by achieving at least 75%) the FGASA Level
1 Marine theory examination you can apply to be practically assessed.
The practical assessment for the Level 1 Marine Guide qualification is carried out by a
registered FGASA assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the
assessor on a guided coastal-marine experience in a limited geographical area (with or without
paying clients), preferably with clients.
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
you may prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the Level 1 Marine Guide Learner
Support Pack for details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the
assessor and does not come to the FGASA office.
FGASA ©2013 42
Once you have been declared competent for the Level 1 Marine Guide practical and theoretical
assessment you will have attained the FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
What learning materials do I need for the Basic Marine Guide Level 1 qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
The Marine Guide Level 1 Learner Manual – Grant Hine
The Guiding Skills Manual – Grant Hine
The FGASA Marine Guide Level 1 Learner Support Pack & Workbook
Two Oceans - A guide to the marine life of southern Africa – Branch
Recommended guide books to make use of while conducting guided experiences:
1. There are many books pertaining to the marine environment that will cover the syllabus
for this Marine Guiding qualification. You need to choose those books that suit your
needs best in covering the material in the syllabus.
Examples:
The living shores of Southern Africa - Branch, G & Branch, M
Coastal Fishes of Southern Africa – Phil & Elaine Heemstra
Two Oceans. A guide to the marine life of Southern Africa – Branch
The Coastal Guide of South Africa – Jacana publishers
2. Mammal books - Field Guide to Mammals of Southern Africa – Chris and Tilde Stuart.
3. Any tree book that includes trees for your area of operation:
Trees of Southern Africa – B & P van Wyk
4. Any one of the following bird books:
Newman‟s Birds of South Africa – Sappi
Sasol Birds of SA – Sasol.
Roberts Field Guide to Birds of Southern Africa
THE SYLLABUS FOR THE LEVEL 1 MARINE GUIDE CATEGORY
The Level 1 Marine Guide should be able to identify the major living and non-living features of
the coastal-marine environment in which s/he operates and interprets them at a level based
mainly on observation and from an elementary scientific and cultural perspective.
As a general guideline, a Level 1 Marine Guide must have sound knowledge of the history,
geology, plants and animals (i.e. birds, mammals, reptiles, etc) in the specific area of operation.
FGASA ©2013 43
The FGASA Level 1 Marine Guide Syllabus includes the following modules:
Module Number
MODULE
1. Introduction to Marine Guiding
2. Creating a guided coastal-marine experience
3. The coastal marine environment and the two oceans
4. Geology
5. Astronomy
6. Weather and Climate
7. Basic Marine Ecology
8. Basic Taxonomy
9. Sea Plants (Algae) [Including Dune, Mangrove and Saltmarsh plants]
10. Coastal and Marine Invertebrates
11. Amphibians
12. Marine Reptiles
13. Marine Fish
14. Coastal - Marine Birds
15. Marine Mammals
16. Animal behaviour
17. Historical human habitation and Conservation management
For details pertaining to the Marine Guiding syllabus and assessment requirements refer
to the FGASA Marine Guiding Learner Support Pack and workbook.
4.3 Tracker Categories
Tracker Level 1
At this level the tracker:
> Is operating as a tracker within a site in a limited capacity but is in the process of development.
> Has the basic knowledge and skills considered essential to conduct a limited guided animal tracking experience.
> May be operating as a competent tracker in a number of different sites. A site usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical Garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
> Has the basic knowledge and skill considered essential to register and legally conduct a limited guided animal tracking experience as a FGASA Tracker Level 1.
> Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Tracker Level 1 practical assessment.
How do I get a FGASA Tracker Level 1 Qualification?
Once you have become a member of FGASA you can apply to be practically assessed for the
FGASA Tracker Level 1 qualification. (There is no theory examination for the Tracker
qualifications)
FGASA ©2013 44
The practical assessment for the Tracker Level 1 qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA assessor in an appropriate natural area for tracker assessments. You will need to go
through the Tracker assessment on a limited guided tracking experience. The practical
assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-assessment brief. The
assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so that you may prepare
yourself for this assessment.
Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not come via
the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Tracker Level 1 practical assessment you will
have attained the FGASA Tracker Level 1 Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
The practical assessment for Trackers consists of three parts:
Essential embedded knowledge questions
Spoor identification and interpretation
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing)
Two separate FGASA certificates within the levels of Tracker qualifications
Once you have been declared competent for:
Spoor identification and interpretation – you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Spoor identification and interpretation. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA tracker as you will need to attain the Animal Trailing aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing) - you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Animal Trailing. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA tracker as you will need to attain the Spoor identification and interpretation aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
The practical assessment for the FGASA Tracker Level 1 qualification is based on the Tracking
unit standard:
Conduct a limited guided animal tracking experience
A learner assessed as competent against this tracking unit standard will be able to:
Accurately identify from clearly defined to partially defined easy spoor of small to large animals (classified as unclear easy spoor).
Intuitively follow the tracks of a large animal under easy soil conditions for at least 30 minutes until it is found.
Once you have been assessed by a recognised Tracker assessor you will
need to submit a copy of the relevant certificate issued by your assessor to the
FGASA office in order for a FGASA Tracking Certificate to be issued to you.
FGASA ©2013 45
Interpret basic behavioural patterns of animals by means of inductive-deductive reasoning from observation of spoor.
Estimate the age of spoor as being fresh enough to follow and find or not.
What learning materials do I need for the Tracker Level 1 qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. A photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking in
Southern Africa – L. Liebenberg
Recommended reading:
A Field guide to the Tracks and Signs of Southern &
East African Wildlife - Chris & Matilda Stuart
Tracker Level 2
At this level the tracker:
> Is operating as a tracker within a site in an advanced process of development. > Has the knowledge and skills considered essential to conduct a Guided animal tracking
experience. > May be operating as a competent tracker in a number of different sites. A Site usually
refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical Garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
> Has the knowledge and skill considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided animal tracking experience as a FGASA Tracker Level 2.
> Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Tracker Level 2 practical assessment.
How do I get a FGASA Tracker Level 2 Qualification?
Once you are a paid-up member of FGASA you can apply to be practically assessed for the
FGASA Tracker Level 2 qualification. It is unlikely that this qualification will be awarded if you
do not have at least 1 year of tracking experience. (There is no theory examination for the
Tracker qualifications)
The practical assessment for the Tracker Level 2 qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA assessor in an appropriate natural area for tracker assessments. You will need to go
through the Tracker assessment on a guided tracking experience. The practical assessment
will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-assessment brief. The assessor
will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so that you may prepare yourself for
this assessment.
Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not come via
the FGASA office.
FGASA ©2013 46
Once you have been declared competent for the Tracker Level 2 practical assessment you will
have attained the FGASA Tracker Level 2 Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
The practical assessment for Trackers consists of three parts:
Essential embedded knowledge questions
Spoor identification and interpretation
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing)
Two separate FGASA certificates within the levels of Tracker qualifications
Once you have been declared competent for:
Spoor identification and interpretation – you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Spoor identification and interpretation. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA tracker as you will need to attain the Animal Trailing aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing) - you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Animal Trailing. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA tracker as you will need to attain the Spoor identification and interpretation aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
The practical assessment for the FGASA Tracker Level 2 qualification is based on the following
Tracking subjects:
Conduct an animal tracking experience
A learner assessed as competent against this tracking unit standard will be able to:
Accurately identify from clearly defined to partially obscure spoor of small to large animals (classified as moderately difficult)
Systematically follow the tracks of a medium to large animal for at least 30 minutes until it is found.
Interpret behavioural patterns of animals by means of inductive-deductive reasoning from observation of spoor.
Estimate the age of spoor as fresh enough to follow and find or not.
Once you have been assessed by a recognised Tracker assessor you will
need to submit a copy of the relevant certificate issued by your assessor to the
FGASA office in order for a FGASA Tracking Certificate to be issued to you.
FGASA ©2013 47
What learning materials do I need for the Tracker Level 2 qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. A photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking in
Southern Africa – L. Liebenberg
Recommended reading:
A Field guide to the Tracks and Signs of Southern
& East African Wildlife - Chris & Matilda Stuart
Tracker Level 3
At this level the tracker:
> Is operating as an advanced professional tracker within a site. > Has the advanced knowledge and skills considered essential to conduct an advanced
guided animal tracking experience. > May be operating as a competent tracker in a number of different sites. A Site usually
refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
> Has advanced knowledge and skill considered essential to register and legally conduct an advanced guided animal tracking experience as a FGASA Tracker Level 3.
> Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Tracker Level 3 practical assessment.
How do I get a FGASA Tracker Level 3 Qualification?
Once you are a paid-up member of FGASA you can apply to be practically assessed for the
FGASA Tracker Level 3 qualification. It is unlikely that this qualification will be awarded if you
do not have at least 2 years of tracking experience. (There is no theory examination for the
Tracker qualifications)
The practical assessment for the Tracker Level 3 qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA assessor in an appropriate natural area for tracker assessments. You will need to go
through the Tracker assessment on an advanced guided tracking experience. The practical
Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-assessment brief. The
assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so you may prepare
yourself for this assessment.
Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not come via
the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Tracker Level 3 practical assessment you will
have attained the FGASA Tracker Level 3 Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
FGASA ©2013 48
The practical assessment for Trackers consists of three parts:
Essential embedded knowledge questions
Spoor identification and interpretation
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing)
Two separate FGASA certificates within the level 3 Tracker
qualification are issued given that there are two separate
aspects for this qualification.
Once you have been declared competent (attained 90%) for:
Spoor identification and interpretation – you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Spoor identification and interpretation. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA Level 3 tracker as you will need to attain the Animal Trailing aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing) - you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Animal Trailing. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA Level 3 tracker as you will need to attain the Spoor identification and interpretation aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
The practical assessment for the FGASA Tracker Level 3 qualification is based on the two
Tracking subjects:
Conduct an advanced guided animal track and sign interpretation experience
A learner assessed as competent against this standard will be able to:
Accurately identify from partially obscure to obscure spoor of small to large animals (Classified as difficult)
Interpret behavioural patterns of animals by means of inductive-deductive reasoning from observation of spoor.
Estimate the age of difficult spoor.
Conduct an advanced guided animal trailing experience
A learner assessed as competent against this standard will be able to:
Intuitively follow the tracks of a small to large animal for at least 30 minutes until it is found.
Interpret behavioural patterns of animals by means of inductive-deductive reasoning from observation of spoor.
Estimate the age of difficult spoor as fresh enough to follow and find or not.
Once you have been assessed by a recognised Tracker assessor you will
need to submit a copy of the relevant certificate issued by your assessor to the
FGASA office in order for a FGASA Tracking Certificate to be issued to you.
FGASA ©2013 49
Tracker Level 4
The FGASA Tracker Level 4 Qualification is issued when the candidate has achieved
100% in an assessment the same as that for the Tracker Level 3 qualification.
Two separate FGASA certificates within the level 4 Tracker qualification are issued given
that there are two separate aspects for this qualification.
Once you have been declared competent at 100% for:
Spoor identification and interpretation – you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Spoor identification and interpretation. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA Level 4 tracker as you will need to attain the Animal Trailing aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
Systematic tracking (Animal Trailing) - you may be awarded the FGASA Certificate in Animal Trailing. This does not however qualify you as a FGASA Level 4 tracker as you will need to attain the Spoor identification and interpretation aspect of the qualification before the full Tracker qualification is awarded.
Senior Tracker
This guide is operating at a very advanced Special Knowledge and Skills professional Tracker level.
Has a minimum of five years practical experience as a Tracker and has an exceptional ability to identify and interpret spoor of all animals.
Has been declared competent against the FGASA Senior Tracker practical assessment.
Master Tracker
This is regarded as an honorary category.
The Master Tracker must have excellent knowledge of animal behaviour, and be capable of a highly refined interpretation of spoor in difficult terrain. He or she must have originality and creative insight with well developed intuitive abilities.
Has a minimum of ten years experience and has demonstrated an ability to make novel contributions to the understanding of tracking and scientific knowledge of animal behaviour.
The awarding of this qualification is based on the recommendation from CyberTracker.
Scout qualification
This is an honorary category introduced as a special recognition for an experienced Nature Guide who has qualified with the FGASA Level 3 Guiding qualification, the Special Knowledge and Skills (Dangerous Game) [SKS(DG) / SKS(DA)] qualification and the FGASA Senior Tracker qualification.
FGASA ©2013 50
4.4 Dangerous Game Qualifications
The Back-up Trails Guide Qualification
Learners wanting to attain a FGASA Trails Guide Qualification in
order to lead walking trails in dangerous game areas need to first
attain the FGASA Back-Up Trails Guide and gain the required
amount of experience in order to be awarded the FGASA Trails
Guide (Lead) Qualification.
The Back-up Trails Guide:
Is operating as a Back-up Trails site guide on foot in dangerous game areas.
May be operating as a competent guide on foot in a number of different sites as a Back-up Trails Guide. A site in this case usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park in which dangerous game occur.
Has previously attained a FGASA Nature Guiding qualification either as a Local Guide, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 or one of the Tracker qualifications.
Has the minimum required experience on foot in dangerous game areas for the Back-up Trails Guide qualification.
Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided nature experience on foot in dangerous game areas as a FGASA Back-up Trails guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Back-up Trails Guide theoretical and practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
Has the required SASSETA certificates and the required FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling qualifications if the guide makes use of a rifle while guiding.
The Back-up Trails Guide learner goes through a theory assessment (The FGASA Trails
Guide Theory examination) and a practical (View potentially dangerous animals) assessment for
the Back-up Trails Guide certificate. This excludes the rifle handling practical assessment for
guides who will be making use of a rifle when conducting guided experiences.
Entry requirements for the Trails Guide theory examination: The writing of the Trails Guide
theory examination does not depend on dangerous game guiding experience however you need
to have either: a FGASA Local Guide, or a full FGASA Level 1(NQF2 Nature guiding skills
programme), FGASA Level 2 or Level 3 or a Tracker qualification.
FGASA ©2013 51
Entry requirements for the Back-Up Trails Guide practical assessment:
To be eligible to apply to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Back-up Trails Guide Qualification you must have:
Been declared competent (passed) for the FGASA Trails Guide theory examination
Gained and logged the required active guiding experience (See below)
Experience required for you to attain the FGASA Back-up
Trails Guide Certificate:
At least 10 encounters (minimum 50 hours) on foot as either lead guide or back-up accompanied by a FGASA qualified Trails Guide or SKS (Dangerous Animals or Dangerous Game) guide/trainer/assessor.
The 10 encounters on foot for the Back-up Trails Guide can be attained in an area where at least 2 (two) of the Big 5 Dangerous animals exist.
During any Trails Guide training course, 5 of the 10 encounters can be logged as a mentored participant while the other 5 encounters need to be logged as a “lead guide” under training. Keep in mind that the guide at this stage of training cannot lead a walk to view potentially dangerous animals if s/he is not accompanied by a FGASA qualified Trails Guide or SKS(Dangerous Animals or Dangerous Game) guide.
A Back-Up Trails Guide can operate as a normal vehicle guide for a lodge or company and work
as a Back-up to a more experienced qualified Trails Guide for the duration of walks in an area
that has at least two of the Big 5 dangerous animal species.
The length of time required and experience as a Back-up Trails Guide to attain the Full Trails
Guide qualification is at least 100 hours (50 encounters) with a qualified FGASA lead guide.
This experience must be logged and verified in the Back-Up Trails Guide‟s Dangerous Game
logbook (Provided by FGASA). Once the set required experience has been attained and
verified by FGASA then you will be eligible for the Trails Guide (lead) practical assessment.
This will ensure that lodges and companies employing Back-up Trails Guides know that these
guides need to work as back-ups on walks until such time as they have attained the required
experience.
Only once the FGASA certificate for Trails Guide (Lead guide) has been issued will these
lodges and companies be able to employ (or promote) the guide as a Trails Guide (Lead) who is
then fully qualified to lead these experiences.
Logbook: Your dangerous game encounters (as per the FGASA definition of an encounter) as
a Back-Up Trails Guide must be recorded in the FGASA Dangerous Game Logbook.
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Dangerous Game Logbook Field Guiding logbook (Green)
Your other guiding experience (non-dangerous game encounters) should be recorded in the
Green FGASA Field Guiding Logbook. If you are joining FGASA and you have already gained
a certain amount of dangerous game guiding experience, you can backdate your DG logbook
with this experience. This guiding experience must be verified and signed by your previous
employer(s). Reference letters may be sent with your logbook to the FGASA Johannesburg
office. (Refer to the description in the FGASA Dangerous Game Logbook as to what is
required).
Application and payment: If you have fulfilled all the FGASA entry requirements for the Trails
Guide theory examination, you will need to send your examination application form and proof of
payment for the Trials Guide theory examination to the FGASA Johannesburg office.
Remember that examination applications close 1 month before the set national examination
sitting.
The practical assessments
Before you can be practically assessed for FGASA Back-up / Trails Guide / Advanced Trails
Guide qualifications you will need to have fulfilled all these criteria (as mentioned above) and
your Dangerous Game Logbook verified by FGASA and once your logbook experience has
been approved you will be eligible to be practically assessed.
The practical evaluation for the Back-up Trails Guide and the Trails Guide Qualification is
carried out by a registered FGASA Assessor in a dangerous game guiding area of your choice.
You will need to take the assessor on a guided walking experience in a dangerous game area
to view potentially dangerous animals. (This area must have at least two of the Big five
dangerous animal categories)
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
you may prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the Trails Guide Learner Support Pack
for details)
FGASA ©2013 53
Payment for your practical assessment is done directly to the assessor and does not come via
the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Back-up Trails Guide practical assessment you
will have attained the FGASA Back-Up Trails Guide Qualification.
You may then be awarded the Back-Up Trails Guide Certificate from FGASA.
Dangerous game encounters
Prior to the practical assessment the guide must log at least:
10 encounters on foot as either lead guide or back-up accompanied by a FGASA qualified Trails Guide or SKS (Dangerous Animals or Dangerous Game) guide / trainer / assessor.
These approaches can include animals from any
of the following categories, but preferably as
many categories as possible:
Elephant bull
Elephant breeding herd
Buffalo bull
Buffalo breeding herd
Lion & leopard
White & black rhino
Hippopotamus
An encounter is one of the following:
A deliberate walk to a dangerous animal or group of animals with the intention to view it on foot without disturbing it in any way. Thus approach, view and withdraw without the animals becoming aware of your presence, or show any sign that they are aware of any disturbance.
A deliberate walk to a dangerous animal or group of animals with the intention to view it on foot without disturbing it in any way, but due to guide or guest error, or changing environmental factors the animal or animals do become aware of the approaching human/s.
An unintentional contact during a walk. This will not necessarily be a good sighting, and might last only a second or two.
An explanation is given for a potential dangerous animal encounter based on an accurate observation and thus a potentially dangerous encounter is avoided. An example of this type of encounter is if a guide comes across the tracks of a lioness with cubs, the guide is able to point out and describe the tracks and give an explanation for why they will not follow these tracks, as it may lead to an extremely dangerous encounter which may be negative for the lions, the guide and the clients. This type of encounter must be recorded in the logbook.
The encounters (on foot) must be in the presence of a mentor / Trails Guide / SKS (Dangerous Animals or Dangerous Game) guide.
FGASA ©2013 54
FGASA requirements for the recording of experience for Trails guide
The experience on foot required for Trails Guide cannot be carried out by driving a vehicle to a
potentially dangerous animal (Big 5 species) and then getting out of the vehicle to approach this
particular animal on foot.
The logged experience required must include walking without initially knowing the exact location
of a Big 5 dangerous animal, possibly tracking of the animal in question, approaching the animal
taking into consideration all the environmental and client factors with safety in mind at all times.
View the animal and move away leaving the animal as it was found. Obviously if circumstances
change and the animal becomes aware of the approaching humans then the required action
should be taken to ensure the safety of all.
The point being made here, is that the learner can log guiding experience on foot in dangerous
game areas (encounters – as per the FGASA definition of an encounter) carried out in the same
manner as the guided experience would be assessed, i.e. as per the previous paragraph and
cannot be done by driving up to the animal, getting out of the vehicle, approaching the animal
on foot and then recording this as walking experience.
This form of experience will not be accepted by FGASA for viewing potentially dangerous
animals on foot experience, as this is considered to be a vehicle approach.
The experience criteria for eligibility to start the process of attaining the Trails guide
qualification, is at least 10 encounters on foot. As a guide you must not confuse these two
categories by trying to combine them.
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. The Trails Guide Manual – Grant Hine
2. The FGASA Trails Guide Learner Support Pack and Workbook
3. The Rifle Handling Manual – Grant Hine
4. A photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking in
Southern Africa – L. Liebenberg
Recommended:
DVD – Africa‟s Dangerous Game on Foot
DVD Set - Preparing yourself for stopping the charge
FGASA ©2013 55
SYLLABUS FOR THE BACK-UP AND TRAILS GUIDE QUALIFICATION
Module number
MODULE NAME
1. Conducting a trails guiding experience
2. Trails Guiding equipment
3. Navigation
4. Approaching animals on foot
5. Dangerous animal knowledge
6. Animal Diseases
7. Rifle handling for dangerous game
8. Incident and crime scene management
For details pertaining to the Back-up Trails Guide and the Trails Guide syllabus and
assessment requirements refer to the FGASA Trails Guide Learner Support Pack.
IMPORTANT
The attainment of a FGASA Back-up and Trails Guide is
directly linked to the attainment of the FGASA Advanced Rifle
Handling certificate. The ARH certificate expires every two
years and thus due to the link so does the FGASA Back-up
and Trails Guide certificate expire.
If you do not carry a rifle for guiding purposes you will only be awarded the
VPDA Certificate (which does not expire). All FGASA Back-up, Trails Guide
and Advanced Trails guide certificates will have an expiry date based on
when the ARH is due for renewal. A new certificate will only be issued once
the ARH competency is up to date through a renewal assessment.
FGASA ©2013 56
THE FGASA BACK-UP TRAILS GUIDE QUALIFICATION
No
Yes
No
You will need to attain one
of these qualifications
before you can enrol for
the FGASA Back-up Trails
Guide qualification
Do you have any one of the following FGASA qualifications:
Tracker qualification or Local Guide or FGASA Level 1 or
Level 2 or Level 3 nature guide?
Have you passed the Trials Guide Theory examination?
It will be recorded in your logbook and on the FGASA database that you have attained the FGASA
Back-up Trails Guide Qualification. A FGASA Back-up Trails guide Certificate will be awarded.
Yes
You will have to re-apply to
write the FGASA Trails
Guide Theory examination
again.
You will be eligible to write the Trails Guide Theory
examination either at a Training provider special sitting or
at a FGASA National examination sitting.
Do you have At least 10 encounters (minimum 50 hours)
on foot in an area where at least two of the Big 5
Dangerous animals exist in a state of being “free ranging”
as a Back-up accompanied by a FGASA qualified Trails
Guide.
Yes
No
You will have to get the
required encounters on
foot and log this in the
FGASA DG logbook
BACK-UP
You are eligible to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Back-up Trails Guide qualification
You will have to apply for
and go through the Back-
up Trails Guide practical
assessment again
Have you been declared competent for the Back-up Trails
Guide practical assessment?
No
Yes
No
Have you been assessed by a FGASA
ARH assessor and declared competent
for the FGASA Advanced rifle
handling Certificate (ARH)
You will have to go through the FGASA
Advanced Rifle handling assessment
Yes
Yes
FGASA ©2013 57
The FGASA Trails Guide Qualification
The Trails guide:
Is operating as a Trails (Lead) site guide on foot in dangerous game areas.
May be operating as a competent guide on foot in a number of different sites as a Trails Guide (Lead). A site in this case usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park in which dangerous animals occur.
Has previously attained a FGASA Nature Guiding qualification at either Local Guide, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 or one of the Tracker qualifications.
Has the minimum required experience in dangerous game areas (At least 2 of the big 5) for the Trails Guide Qualification.
Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided nature experience on foot in dangerous game areas as a FGASA Trails guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of both the FGASA Back-up Trails guide and the Trails Guide theoretical and practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
Has the required SASSETA Certificate of competence and the required FGASA Advanced rifle handling qualifications if he/she is going to carry a rifle when conducting guided experiences.
Experience required for a guide to attain the FGASA Trails Guide Certificate
A Back-Up Trails Guide can operate as a normal vehicle guide for a lodge or company
and work as a Back-up guide to a more experienced qualified Trails Guide for the
duration of walks in an area that has any of the Big 5 dangerous animal species.
The experience required for a Back-up guide to be awarded the FGASA Trails Guide
Certificate is to have logged guided experiences with any two categories of Big 5
animals.
The length of time required and experience as a Back-up Trails Guide to attain the Full
Trails Guide is at least 100 hours (50 encounters) with a qualified FGASA lead guide.
Your logbook must be sent to the FGASA Johannesburg office for verification of your
guiding experience. You will have to undergo another practical assessment as a Lead
Trails Guide before this qualification can be awarded.
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed
on in order that you can prepare yourself for this assessment. Payment for your practical
assessment is done directly to the assessor and does not come to the FGASA office.
The Practical Assessment for the Trails Guide (Lead guide)
There is no further theory examination for the Trails Guide (Lead) qualification, only another
practical assessment operating as a lead guide. Only once you have been declared competent
for the Trails Guide practical assessment (a second practical) will you be awarded the full
FGASA Trails Guide qualification. This practical assessment can take place in any reserve that
has any two of the big 5 dangerous animals.
FGASA ©2013 58
WHAT
THE FGASA TRAILS GUIDE QUALIFICATION
No
No
Yes
You will have to attain the
FGASA Back-up Trails Guide
and provide proof of this
attainment.
Do you have the FGASA Back-up Trails Guide Qualification?
You will be awarded with the FGASA Trails Guide Certificate (Lead Guide).
Yes
You will have to attain the
required 100 hours (50
encounters) as a Back-up
with a qualified FGASA lead
guide in an area with at
least two of the Big 5
animals.
Has your required experience been logged and signed off
by the “lead” guide and your logbook submitted to the
FGASA office for verification
No
The required experience as
a Back-up Trails Guide has
been logged, verified and
signed off by the “lead”
guide(s) & Mentor. Submit
the logbook to the FGASA
office
No
You will have to apply for
and go through the Trails
Guide (Lead) practical
assessment again.
Have you worked as a Back-up to a more experienced
qualified Trails Guide for the duration of walks in an area
that has at least two of the Big 5. Have you attained the
logged experience as a Back-up Trails Guide to include at
least 100 hours (50 encounters) with a qualified FGASA lead
guide?
You are eligible to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Trails Guide (Lead) qualification
Yes
Yes
TRAILS GUIDE
Have you been declared competent for the Trails Guide
(Lead) practical assessment?
Yes
Refer to the section in this information book on how attain a FGASA Advanced
Rifle Handling certificate
Yes
Have you been assessed by a FGASA
ARH assessor and declared competent
for the FGASA Advanced rifle
handling Certificate (ARH)
You will have to go through the
FGASA Advanced Rifle handling
assessment
No
FGASA ©2013 59
The FGASA Advanced Trails Guide Qualification
This guide:
Is operating as a Trails (Lead) site guide on foot in dangerous game areas.
May be operating as a competent guide on foot in a number of different sites as a Trails Guide (Lead). A Site in this case usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park in which dangerous animals occur.
Has previously attained a FGASA Nature Guiding qualification at either Local Guide, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 or one of the Tracker qualifications.
Has the minimum required experience in dangerous game areas (all of the big 5) for the Advanced Trails Guide Qualification.
Has the basic knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided nature experience on foot in dangerous game areas as a FGASA Advanced Trails Guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of both the FGASA Back-up Trails guide and the Trails Guide theoretical and practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
Has the required SASSETA Certificate of competence and the required FGASA Advanced rifle handling qualifications if he/she is going to carry a rifle when conducting guided experiences.
Experience required for a guide to attain the FGASA Advanced Trails Guide Certificate
A Back-Up Trails Guide can operate as a normal vehicle guide for a lodge or company
and work as a Back-up guide to a more experienced qualified Trails Guide for the
duration of walks in an area that has any of the Big 5 dangerous animal species.
The experience required for a Back-up or a Trails Guide to be awarded the FGASA
Advanced Trails Guide Certificate is to have logged guided experiences with all
categories of Big 5 animals. This experience can be gained in different reserves.
The length of time required and experience as a Back-up Trails Guide to attain the
Advanced Trails Guide qualifications is at least 100 hours (50 encounters) with a
qualified FGASA lead guide.
Your logbook must be sent to the FGASA Johannesburg office for verification of your
guiding experience. You will have to undergo another practical assessment as a Lead
Trails Guide before this qualification can be awarded.
No Practical Assessment for the Advanced Trails Guide
If you have already gone through a practical assessment for the Trails Guide you will not have
to go through a practical for the Advanced Trails Guide – proof of experience with all categories
of dangerous game will have to be provided before this certificate is issued.
If however you have not yet been practically assessed as a Lead Guide and want to be
assessed for the Advanced Trails Guide then the Practical Assessment for the Advanced
Trails Guide (Lead Guide) must be carried out on encounters with all categories of dangerous
animals. The assessment can take place on more than one reserve.
FGASA ©2013 60
WHAT
THE FGASA ADVANCED TRAILS GUIDE QUALIFICATION
No
No
Yes
You will have to attain the
FGASA Back-up Trails Guide
and provide proof of this
attainment.
Do you have the FGASA Back-up Trails Guide Qualification?
You will be awarded with the FGASA Advanced Trails Guide Certificate.
Yes
You will have to attain the
required 100 hours (50
encounters) as a Back-up
with a qualified FGASA lead
guide in an area with all of
the Big 5 animals.
Has your required experience been logged and signed off
by the “lead” guide or by the mentor in case of adding
experience in areas with all of the Big 5.
No
The required experience as
a Back-up or Trails Guide
has been logged, verified
and signed off by the “lead”
guide(s) & Mentor. Submit
the logbook to the FGASA
office
No
You will have to apply for
and go through the Trails
Guide (Lead) practical
assessment again.
Have you worked as a Back-up or Trails Guide (Lead) to a in
an area that has all of the Big 5. This experience may have
been accumulated in a number of reserves. Have you
attained the logged experience as a Back-up Trails Guide to
include at least 100 hours (50 encounters) with a qualified
FGASA lead guide?
Submit your logbook to the FGASA office for verification
of experience with all of the Big 5.
Yes
Yes
ADVANCED TRAILS GUIDE
Have you been declared competent for the Trails Guide
(Lead) practical assessment?
Yes
THE USE OF A RIFLE (A separate Certificate)
If you are going to be carrying a rifle to conduct guided experiences as an
Advanced Lead Guide to view potentially dangerous animals then refer to the
section in this information book on the FGASA Rifle Handling Qualifications.
FGASA ©2013 61
Summary of the Dangerous Game Qualifications (Excluding the SKS(DG) qualification)
Dangerous Game
Qualification
Experience requirements Assessment requirements
Back-up Trails Guide
Any two of the Big 5
dangerous animals
Assessment carried out in any
reserve that has any two of the
big 5 dangerous animals
Trails Guide (Lead)
Any two of the Big 5
dangerous animals
Assessment carried out in any
reserve that has any two of the
big 5 dangerous animals
[Species of Big 5 recorded on
FGASA database]
Advanced Trails
Guide (Lead)
Must have experience with
all the different categories of
dangerous animals. (This
can be attained and logged
on different reserves)
No additional practical
assessment after the guide has
been assessed as a Trails Guide.
If not previously assessed the
assessment carried out will be on
encounters with all categories of
dangerous animals (This can take
place in more than one reserve).
FGASA ©2013 62
THE FGASA RIFLE HANDLING CERTIFICATES
The FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling Certificate is aimed at the nature guide who carries a rifle while operating in dangerous game areas, as a Back-up Trails Guide or a Trails Guide (Lead guide). The guide is responsible for the overall safety of the group and functions as either the back-up or the lead trails guide on walks in dangerous game areas.
IMPORTANT
The link between the FGASA Dangerous Game
Qualifications and the FGASA Rifle Handling Certificates
The FGASA Rifle Handling Certificates although separate from the Back-up /
Lead and Advanced Trails Guide qualifications is directly linked and both
certificates expire on the date the ARH expires (every two years). Thus if your
ARH competence has not been renewed it means that your Back-up, Trails or
Advanced Trails Guide Certificate is not valid.
Guides who carry rifles
Any guide who conducts walking trails in dangerous game areas and carries a
rifle (most lodges in Big 5 areas require this) will have to have attained the
relevant SASSETA and the FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling Certificate.
Companies who require that the employed guides carry rifles to conduct walks in
dangerous game areas must ensure that their guides have attained the FGASA
Advanced Rifle Handling Certificates.
Companies who insist on their guides carrying rifles to conduct walks in
dangerous game areas without having attained the FGASA Advanced Rifle
Handling Certificate and/or renewing an expired certificate do so at their own risk
without the support of the Association.
FGASA ©2013 63
The Advanced Rifle handling assessments
This process of assessment for this certificate is designed to ensure that the guide is equipped to deal with emergencies under guiding conditions, and that the correct muscle memory is fixed for the sake of safety and survival.
The Aim of the assessments
To assess learners on:
Their practical, heavy-calibre rifle handling and shooting skills on a basic and advanced level.
Their competence in safely handling and maintaining a heavy calibre rifle in such a way that a charging dangerous animal will be stopped at short distance, should such a situation arise.
The safe handling and maintenance of a firearm in accordance with laid down legislation, rules, procedures and conditions.
The FGASA Advanced rifle handling assessments consist of a number of static target shooting exercises and a simulated charge shooting exercise with the appropriate calibre rifle (Refer to the FGASA rifle handling qualifications).
BASIC COMPETENCY FIREARMS CERTIFICATE
Before any Back-up or Trails guide practical assessment takes
place you must have already attained the legal Firearms
Competency Certificate through an accredited SASSETA
provider.
If you are making use of any firearm for guiding purposes you must also attain the
“White Card” from the South African Police Services or at least have proof that you
have applied for the card before you can work as a guide using a rifle belonging to the
lodge (employer) supplied to you to carry out your job function.
The FGASA rifle handling certificates and specific requirements for the Back-up
Trails Guide, the Trails Guide and for SKS(DG) qualification when carrying a rifle
can be found in the FGASA Rifle Handling Learner Support Pack.
The FGASA Rifle Handling certificates consist of:
Basic rifle handling
Advanced Trails Guide rifle handling
SKS(DG) rifle handling
FGASA ©2013 64
WHAT
THE FGASA RIFLE HANDLING CERTIFICATES
No You will have to be declared
competent for the relevant firearms
unit standards through an accredited
SASSETTA provider
Have you been declared competent against the
relevant SASSETA firearms unit standards?
Yes
Have you attained the Legal Firearms
Competency Certificate through an accredited
SASSETA provider?
ARH
You will have to attain the Legal
Firearms Competency Certificate
through an accredited SASSETTA
provider
Yes
No
Yes
Have you been assessed by a FGASA ARH assessor
and declared competent for the FGASA basic rifle
handling Certificate?
You will have to go through the FGASA
Basic rifle handling assessment.
You will be awarded the FGASA Basic Rifle Handling
Certificate allowing you to carry a rifle while conducting
vehicle based guided experiences only (No walking)
Yes
You will be awarded the FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling Certificate qualifying you to carry a rifle
while conducting walking trails in dangerous game area in conjunction with the FGASA Back-up / Lead
/ Advanced Trails Guide or the SKS(DG) Qualification.
No
Have you been assessed by a FGASA
ARH assessor and declared competent
for the FGASA Advanced rifle
handling Certificate (ARH)
You will have to go through the FGASA
Advanced Rifle handling assessment
Yes
No
IMPORTANT
Remember that the FGASA Basic and Advanced Rifle Handling
Certificates expire after a two year period and are renewable
by going through another practical shooting assessment with a
FGASA ARH assessor.
FGASA ©2013 65
SKS(Dangerous Game) Qualification
The new Special Knowledge and Skills qualification for specialist guides operating in areas with
Dangerous animals is now known as Special Knowledge and Skills Dangerous Game
[SKS(DG)] which differentiates it from the previously attained SKS(DA) qualification.
This differentiation is important given the new criteria required of a guide to qualify for the new
SKS(DG) as compared to the old criteria for the SKS(DA).
Existing SKS(DA) guides were given a time period in which to convert from the old SKS(DA) to
the new SKS(DG) for those guides who already conformed to the new criteria. Those guides
who did not convert during this time frame will have to go through the whole process (theory and
practical) to attain the new SKS(DG) qualification.
This guide:
Is operating as a professional (Lead) site guide on foot in dangerous game areas.
Is a professional walking guide who is able to conduct advanced guided walking activities/safaris in any African dangerous game areas that s/he may or may not be familiar with.
May be operating as a competent professional guide on foot in a number of different dangerous game sites. A Site in this case usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve or National Park in which dangerous game occur.
Has previously attained a FGASA Nature Guiding qualification at Level 3 and has previously attained the FGASA Advanced Trails Guide qualification.
Has the minimum required experience in dangerous game areas for the SKS(Dangerous game) qualification.
Has advanced knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct an advanced guided nature experience on foot in dangerous game areas as a FGASA SKS(DG) guide.
Has been declared competent against the SKS(Dangerous Game) theoretical assessments and the practical assessments.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate with a Wilderness component.
Has the required SASSETA and FGASA Advanced SKS(DG) rifle handling certificates.
The SKS(Dangerous Game) guide will:
be safe at all times
be knowledgeable on all aspects of the area (fauna and flora, ecology, geology, astronomy, history, etc.)
be completely proficient in handling his/her rifle (ARH and SKS Advanced rifle handling qualification)
have advanced navigation and orientation skills (maps, compass & GPS)
be fit enough to carry out a long walk/hike – 20kms plus
have knowledge of First Aid to be able to deal with any eventuality that arises while on a walking activity in a remote area
have above average observational skills
be able to handle any situation that arises with confidence and safety (Dangerous animal specific)
FGASA ©2013 66
be able to set up a rough camp under the stars in the event of conducting a walking trail in remote areas
be able to prepare basic menus and cater for the duration of the assessment (cooking is not included)
be able to work as a „team member‟, „back-up‟ and as a „leader‟ of a team
be able to operate as a team member, back-up and leader under stressful conditions (handle difficult clients under trying conditions)
Entry requirements for the SKS(DG) Qualification assessments:
The following requirements must have been met to be recommended for the SKS (DG)
Qualification assessment:
Must have attained the FGASA Level 3 Nature Guiding Qualification
Must have attained the FGASA Advanced Trails Guide (Lead) Qualification
Must have attained the FGASA Tracker Level 3 Qualification
Must have attained the relevant SASSETA firearms certificates
Must have a valid Level 1 First Aid Certificate (to conform to legal requirements)
Must have attained a First Aid Certificate with a Wilderness component.
Must be a current paid-up member of FGASA
Must have logged at least 1 200 hours of guiding on foot in dangerous game areas over not less than 4 years.
At least 300 of the encounters must be as Lead Guide during normal guided walks, which
may include guiding students. The balance can be made up during other fieldwork. It can
also be made up during training but only if the learner is acting as first/second rifle, thus
not a group exercise. It may also not include encounters while the learner is being
assessed for the VPDA practical. The dangerous animals must be free ranging in the
natural environment, and if hand/boma reared, must have been successfully
rehabilitated.
Within this time period the candidate must also have logged at least 600 encounters (Refer to
the definitions of an “Encounter” under the Back-up Trails Guide section of this information
guide) with free ranging dangerous game from the following categories, with a minimum of 30
encounters per category,
Elephant bull
Elephant breeding herd
Buffalo bull
Buffalo breeding herd
Lion & leopard
White & black rhino
Hippopotamus
FGASA ©2013 67
Submission of required evidence
The following has to be submitted to the FGASA office for eligibility to be assessed for the SKS
(Dangerous Game) qualification:
The candidate‟s Dangerous Game logbook reflecting your dangerous game guiding experience
The SKS (DG) application forms
A letter from another SKS(DG) guide recommending that the candidate be admitted to be assessed for the SKS (DG) Qualification and seconded by another SKS(DG) guide.
The candidate will be required to attend an interview with an SKS(DG) panel before being admitted to be assessed for the SKS(DG) Qualification.
Application and payment: Send your Exam application form and proof of payment for the
FGASA SKS(DG) examination to the FGASA office. Once all the requirements have been
verified your exam application will be processed. You will then be eligible to write the SKS(DG)
theory examination at the appropriate venue as per set examination date.
On successful completion of the SKS(DG) theory examination and on being declared competent
you will be eligible to be practically evaluated for the FGASA SKS(DG) qualification.
The practical assessment for the SKS(DG) qualification is carried out by at least two qualified
FGASA Assessors in a Dangerous animals guiding area designated by FGASA. To be declared
competent for the SKS(DG) practical your assessment will have to take place in an area of „Big
5‟ animals (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Buffalo) This assessment will take place over a
number of days on a walking trail (maximum of seven days & six nights) with a group of guides
being assessed at the same time. (Refer to the criteria for the SKS(DG) qualification)
SPECIAL KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS (DANGEROUS GAME) ASSESSMENTS
1. Theory Examination The theory assessment for this qualification will include: One(1) three hour theory examination for the SKS(DG) qualification which may include anything from the syllabus below:
Dangerous game species o Anatomy o Reproduction o Habits o Ecology o Social structure o Feeding behaviour o Habitats and related behaviour o Warning signs o Method of attack o Evade and escape techniques o General diseases o Sub-species
o Related species o Protection status o Shot placement
FGASA ©2013 68
General o Legal aspects o Trail procedure o Guest empathy o Approach & retreat techniques o Briefing & debriefing o Crisis & trauma management o Follow-ups on wounded animals o The Wilderness Approach o Wilderness ethics and Wilderness Conservation
Survival o Navigation (Map reading, compass & GPS) o Finding Water o Finding & preparing a shelter o Basic weapons o Tracking o Finding & preparing food o First aid & Wilderness Medicine
Firearms o Safety o Firearms Control Act o Parts & functions o Maintenance o Design
Setting up a temporary wilderness camp o Safety o Camp Layout o Water o Ablutions
The Wilderness back-pack o Design, size & colour o Essential items o Non-essential items o Packing the back-pack Ease Comfort Practicality
2. The Practical Assessment for the SKS(DG) Qualification Refer to the SKS(DG) qualification brochure provided by FGASA for details pertaining to the practical assessment, rifle handling assessments and all other aspects of this qualification.
Ballistics o Definitions o Internal ballistics o External ballistics o Terminal ballistics o Cartridge designs o Calibres
FGASA ©2013 69
4.5 Birding Qualifications
The FGASA Birding Qualifications are divided into three categories:
Local Bird Guide Certificate
The Regional Bird guide Certificate
The SKS(Birding) Qualification
Local Bird Guide Qualification
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a nature site guide specialising in bird guiding as a Local bird guide.
May be operating as a competent bird guide in a number of different sites. A Site usually refers to a particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical Garden, Bird Sanctuary, etc.
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification (Either Local, Level 1, 2 or 3).
Has been declared competent against the FGASA birding practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get a FGASA Local bird guide qualification?
Once you have attained any one of the following nature guiding qualifications or higher:
FGASA Local or Level 1 nature guide qualification
or a Full Tracking qualification (including create a guided experience for customers - if this unit standard is not included in the tracking qualification then it will have to be included in the birding practical assessment).
You will then be eligible to apply to be practically assessed for the FGASA Local Bird Guiding
Qualification in a birding area of your choice.
The practical assessment for the Local bird guide qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA birding assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the assessor on
a guided birding experience in a limited geographical area (with or without paying clients),
preferably with clients.
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
that you may prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the FGASA Bird Guiding Learner
workbook for details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor
and does not come via the FGASA office.
There is no Slide and Sound assessment and no theory examination for the Local bird guide
qualification.
FGASA ©2013 70
Once you have been declared competent for the Local bird guide practical assessment you will
have attained the FGASA Local Bird Guide Qualification for the specific site in which you have
been assessed competent to guide in.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
What learning materials do I need for the Local bird guide qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
Any one of the following bird books:
Newman‟s Birds of South Africa – Sappi
Sasol Birds of SA – Sasol.
Roberts Field Guide to Birds of Southern Africa
Recommended reading to improve your knowledge:
Birds The inside story – R&H Loon
Beat about the Bush (Birds) – Trevor Carnaby
Regional Bird Guide Certificate
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a nature bird guide in certain biomes / regions and not the whole country.
Is assessed within different vegetation areas or biomes. A Regional bird guide at this level may be operating as a competent bird guide in a number of different sites, areas or biomes. (Refer to the list of areas below in the slide and sound assessments).
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification (Either Local, Level 1, 2 or 3).
Has been declared competent against the FGASA birding slide and sound assessment and the bird guiding skills practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get a FGASA Regional Bird guide Certificate?
Once you have attained any one of the following nature guiding qualifications or higher:
FGASA Local or Level 1 nature guide qualification and you will then be eligible to apply to be practically assessed for the FGASA Regional Bird Guide Certificate by means of:
The Regional Bird Guide Workbook
A slide and sound assessment
A bird guiding skills practical assessment.
IMPORTANT: You will only be eligible for the bird guiding skills practical assessment once you
have been declared competent for the Birding Slide and Sound assessment.
FGASA ©2013 71
There is no theory examination for the Regional bird guide Certificate but there is a compulsory
workbook.
The practical assessment for the Regional Bird Guide Certificate is carried out by a registered
FGASA birding assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the assessor on
a guided birding experience in a birding area of your choice (with or without paying clients),
preferably with clients.
The practical assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
you may prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the FGASA Bird Guiding workbook for
details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the assessor and does not
come via the FGASA office.
You can choose which vegetation areas / biomes you want to be assessed for. The Slide and
Sound assessment will assess all the areas that you want to be assessed for, however the
Practical birding skills assessment will take place in one area only in order to assess bird
guiding skills.
Once you have been declared competent for the birding Slide and Sound assessment and the
Birding skills practical assessment you will have attained the FGASA Regional Bird Guide
Certificate for the specific area/Biome in which you have been assessed competent to guide in.
The Regional Bird Guiding Certificate will reflect which areas the guide has been assessed
competent to guide in. For example: Regional Bird Guide - Savanna. If the guide is assessed
as competent for all the areas (biomes) and has been assessed competent for the Core Slide
and Sound assessment s/he will be deemed a National Bird Guide.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
This qualification will require the following:
The guide will be assessed by means of the birding Slide and Sound assessment.
The guide will be assessed by means of a Birding Skills Practical assessment.
The Regional Bird Guide workbook
There is no theory examination for this qualification.
Slide and Sound assessment: These assessments can only be done at prescribed venues
and are not carried out at any of the FGASA National exam sittings. You will need to apply to
the FGASA office in order to be assessed against the Slide and Sound assessment. You will
need to provide proof of payment for the slide and sound assessment to the FGASA office.
These assessments can be carried out by a number of birding assessors or at the FGASA
office.
The Slide assessment (visual identification)
This assessment consists of one compulsory section and then a choice of one or more
biome/vegetation areas.
FGASA ©2013 72
There is one compulsory section:
Open book assessment 35 slides of more difficult plumages (females, immature, eclipse, vagrants)
A choice of a minimum of one Biome / vegetation area must be answered.
Savanna Biome: 80 species
Montane Grassland: 25 species
Karoo: 15 species
Arid habitat: 20 species
Marine: 20 species
Forest: 30 species
Fynbos: 15 species
Special regions: o Namibia: 20 species (+Core +Arid) o Botswana: 20 species (+Core +Savanna) o Zimbabwe: 30 species (+Core +Savanna +Forest) o Mozambique: 30 species (+Core +Savanna +Forest)
In each of the Biomes/Vegetation areas there will be a minimum of 5 species under-wing pattern
slides, 5 species of immature bird slides and 5 slides of bird nests that require identification.
If, as a birding specialist you want to be a recognised as a National Bird Guide you will have
to have been declared competent for all the Biomes (excluding the neighbouring countries) and
also have been declared competent for the 80 slides from the Species Core list (Birds that may
be seen over the whole country). The slides will include a minimum of 10 species of immature
birds and the wing patterns of at least 5 species.
The Sound assessment (Bird call identification)
This assessment consists of a choice of one or more biome/vegetation areas.
A choice of a minimum of one Biome / vegetation area must be answered.
Savanna Biome: 80 calls
Montane Grassland: 25 calls
Karoo: 15 calls
Arid habitat: 20 calls
Marine: No sound test
Forest: 40 calls
Fynbos: 15 calls
Special regions: o Namibia: 20 calls (+Core +Arid) o Botswana: 20 calls (+Core +Savanna) o Zimbabwe: 30 calls (+Core +Savanna +Forest) o Mozambique: 30 calls (+Core +Savanna +Forest)
FGASA ©2013 73
If as a birding specialist you want to be a recognised as a National Bird Guide you will have to
have been declared competent for all the Biomes (excluding the neighbouring countries) and
also have been declared competent for the 80 calls from the Species Core list (Birds that may
be seen over the whole country)
Bird Lists The bird species you are required to know for all areas in the country and the neighbouring countries can be found in the FGASA Regional Bird Guide Learner Support Pack. These lists will inform you of what species you need to know for the particular areas in terms of sight and sound identification. Ensure that you obtain the Core bird list as this will indicate which birds found nationally you would need to know for both the slide and sound assessments. These bird lists can be emailed to you or you can obtain a copy of the lists from the FGASA
office.
What learning materials do I need for the Regional bird guide Certificate?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. FGASA Regional Bird Guide workbook 2. Beat about the Bush (Birds) – Trevor Carnaby
Any one of the following bird books:
Newman‟s Birds of South Africa – Sappi
Sasol Birds of SA – Sasol.
Roberts Field Guide to Birds of Southern Africa
Recommended reading to improve your knowledge:
The Roberts multimedia is also a good reference for bird calls
Birds The inside story – R&H Loon
SKS (Birding) Qualification
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a professional nature guide specialising in Birding.
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding Level 3 qualification.
Has been declared competent against the birding theoretical assessment.
Has been declared competent against the birding sound and slide identification assessment.
Has been declared competent against the bird guiding skills practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
FGASA ©2013 74
This qualification will require the following:
The guide must first have attained the FGASA Level 3 qualification.
The guide will be assessed by means of the SKS(Birding) Theory examination.
The guide will be assessed by means of the birding Slide and Sound assessment.
The guide will be assessed by means of a Birding Skills Practical assessment.
The SKS Birding qualification (and certificate) will reflect which areas the guide has been
assessed competent to guide in. For example: “SKS-Birding: Savanna”. If the guide is
assessed as competent for all the areas (biomes) s/he will be deemed an SKS–Birding National
Guide. See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
IMPORTANT: You will only be eligible for the bird guiding skills practical assessment once you
have been declared competent for the Birding theory examination and the birding Slide and
Sound Assessment.
Application and payment:
Theory examination: You will need to send your exam application form and proof of payment
for the SKS(Birding) theory examination to the FGASA office. Remember that examination
applications close 1 month before the set national examination sitting.
Slide and Sound assessment: These assessments can only be done at prescribed venues
and are not carried out at any of the FGASA National exam sittings. You will need to apply to
the FGASA office in order to be assessed against the Slide and Sound assessment. You will
need to provide proof of payment for the slide and sound assessment to the FGASA office.
These assessments can be carried out by a number of birding assessors or at the FGASA
office.
The practical assessment for the SKS(Birding) qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA birding assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the assessor on
a guided birding experience in a birding area or your choice (with or without paying clients),
preferably with clients.
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
you can prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the FGASA Bird Guiding Learner
Support Pack for details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the
assessor and does not come via the FGASA office.
You can choose which vegetation areas / biomes you want to be assessed for. The Slide and
Sound assessment will assess all the areas that you want to be assessed for, however the
Practical birding skills assessment will take place in one area only in order to assess bird
guiding skills.
Once you have been declared competent for the birding theory examination and the Slide and
Sound assessment and the Birding skills practical assessment, you will have attained the
FGASA SKS(Birding) Qualification for the specific area/Biome in which you have been
assessed competent to guide in.
FGASA ©2013 75
What learning materials do I need for the SKS(Birding) qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. FGASA Regional Bird Guiding workbook 2. Beat about the Bush (Birds) – Trevor Carnaby
Any one of the following bird books:
Newman‟s Birds of South Africa – Sappi
Sasol Birds of SA – Sasol.
Roberts Field Guide to Birds of Southern Africa
Recommended reading to improve your knowledge:
The Roberts multimedia - good reference for bird calls
Roberts Birds of Southern Africa
Birds -The inside story – R&H Loon
The Slide assessment (visual identification)
This assessment consists of two compulsory sections and then a choice of one or more
biome/vegetation areas.
The two compulsory sections:
80 slides from the Species Core list (Birds that may be seen over the whole country). The slides will include a minimum of 10 species of immature birds and the wing patterns of at least 5 species.
Open book assessment 35 slides of more difficult plumages (females, immature, eclipse, vagrants)
A choice of a minimum of one Biome / vegetation area must be answered.
Savanna Biome: 80 species
Montane Grassland: 25 species
Karoo: 15 species
Arid habitat: 20 species
Marine: 20 species
Forest: 30 species
Fynbos: 15 species
Special regions: ( Namibia: 20 calls (+Core +Arid) / Botswana: 20 calls (+Core +Savanna) Zimbabwe: 30 calls (+Core +Savanna +Forest) /Mozambique: 30 calls (+Core +Savanna +Forest)
In each of the Biomes/Vegetation areas there will be a minimum of 5 species under-wing pattern
slides, 5 species of immature bird slides and 5 slides of bird nests that require identification.
FGASA ©2013 76
The Sound assessment (Bird call identification)
This assessment consists of one compulsory section and then a choice of one or more
biome/vegetation areas.
The compulsory section: 80 calls from the Species Core list (Birds
that may be seen over the whole country)
A choice of a minimum of one Biome / vegetation area must be
answered.
Savanna Biome: 80 calls
Montane Grassland: 25 calls
Karoo: 15 calls
Arid habitat: 20 calls
Special regions: ( Namibia: 20 calls (+Core +Arid) / Botswana: 20 calls (+Core +Savanna) Zimbabwe: 30 calls (+Core +Savanna +Forest)/Mozambique: 30 calls (+Core +Savanna +Forest)
Bird Lists: Refer to information on bird lists in the Regional Birding Certificate section
SKS(BIRDING) THEORY EXAMINATION
1. KNOWLEDGE ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE
It is assumed that the candidate being assessed for the FGASA SKS-Birding qualification would
already have a FGASA Level 3 nature guiding qualification. Thus it is assumed that the
candidate will have a sound knowledge of at least the following topics: astronomy, navigation
and orientation, climatology, geology, grasses, trees, arthropods, amphibians, reptiles,
mammals, ecology and animal behaviour.
2. SYLLABUS FOR FGASA SKS (BIRDING) THEORY ASSESSMENT
The assessment for the SKS-Birding qualification consists of a number of different modules.
Module number
MODULE NAME
1. Bird history, classification and conservation 2. Bird Anatomy and Physiology (Flight & Design) 3. Breeding
4. Defence and survival 5. Food and feeding methods
6. Bird behaviour 7. General birding knowledge
For details pertaining to the SKS(Birding) syllabus and assessment requirements refer to
the FGASA Birding Learner Support Pack.
Marine: No sound test
Forest: 40 calls
Fynbos: 15 calls
FGASA ©2013 77
HOW DO I GET A FGASA BIRDING QUALIFICATION
Local bird guide / Regional Bird Guide / SKS (Birding)
Yes
Local Bird Guide
You are eligible to be
practically assessed for the
FGASA Local Bird Guide
qualification
Birding
No
You will be able to attain
the FGASA Regional Bird
Guide Certificate but you
will not be able to guide
without a FGASA nature
guiding qualification.
Do you have any one of the following FGASA
qualifications: Local Guide or FGASA Level 1 or Level 2
or Level 3 nature guide qualification?
Regional Bird Guide
You are eligible for the FGASA
Regional Birding Certificate
SKS(Birding)
To be eligible for the FGASA
SKS(Birding) qualification
you must have attained a
FGASA Level 3 Nature
Guiding qualification
Have you been declared
competent for the Regional
Birding Practical assessment in
an area of your choice?
Have you been declared
competent for the Birding
Specialist Slide and Sound
assessment for the Open
Book section and at least
one Biome (Region)?
Yes
Yes
Have you been declared
competent for the
SKS(Birding) theory Exam?
Yes
You will be awarded the
FGASA Regional Bird Guide
Certificate.
Yes
You will be awarded the
FGASA Local Bird Guide
Certificate for your area
of guiding operation
Have you been declared
competent for the Local
Bird Guide practical
assessment for your area of
bird guiding operation?
Yes
Yes
Have you been declared
competent for the
SKS(Birding) Slide and
Sound assessment:
1. Open Book assessment
2. Core assessment
3. At least 1 Biome (region)
?
Yes
Yes
You will be awarded the
FGASA SKS (Birding)
Qualification.
Yes
To be declared competent
as a FGASA NATIONAL
BIRD GUIDE you will have
to have been declared
competent for the slide
and Sound assessment for
all the biomes (regions).
This applies to the
Regional Bird Guide
Certificate and the
SKS(Birding) Qualification.
Have you completed the
Regional Birding workbook
and submitted it to your
assessor?
Yes
Yes
FGASA ©2013 78
4.6 Biome Guiding Qualifications
FGASA Biome Guide
On achieving this specialist qualification over and above a FGASA nature guiding qualification
you will be able to provide a closely integrated interpretation of the natural resources and
attractions, showing the interdependence of climate, weather, rock and soil abiotic factors
intermingled with biotic features such as vegetation and animal life. You will be able to apply
meaningful interpretations based on a sound ecological and conservationist approach by taking
the biome as an integrated entity.
You will be able to conduct a specialist guided biome experience of any of the biomes of South
Africa based upon which Biomes you chose to specialise in. This Biome Guiding Qualification
will give you the opportunity to guide throughout the biome or a number of biomes for which you
have been declared competent to guide in.
At this level the Biome Guide:
Is operating as a nature guide specialising in a particular biome at an intermediate level of knowledge.
Has an intermediate level of knowledge considered essential to register and legally conduct a guided biome experience.
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding or marine guiding qualification (either Local, Level 1, 2 or 3).
Has been declared competent against the relevant Biome assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
The following Biome specialisations at NQF4 are available:
Conduct a guided Savanna Biome experience
Conduct a guided Succulent Karoo Biome experience
Conduct a guided Fynbos Biome experience
Conduct a guided Nama Karoo Biome experience
Conduct a guided Forest Biome experience
Conduct a guided Grassland Biome experience
Conduct a guided Albany Thicket Biome experience
Conduct a guided Desert Biome experience
Conduct a guided Indian Ocean Coastal Belt Biome experience
How do I get a FGASA Biome Guide Qualification?
Once you have attained a FGASA nature or marine guiding qualification (Level 1, 2 or 3) you
can apply to do the FGASA Biome Guiding theory workbook.
There will be separate theory assessment by means of a Biome workbook (portfolio of
evidence) submission for each of the relevant Biomes you wish to be assessed against. You
would need to specify in the workbook for which Biome you have completed the workbook.
FGASA ©2013 79
Payment for the theory workbook marking should be made when submitting the workbook to
the FGASA office. [The fee for the marking of the workbook for each Biome is the moderation
fee for knowledge certificates]
Once you have been declared competent for the FGASA Biome theory workbook assessment
for the specific biome of your choice and you conform to the criteria stated above, you will have
attained the FGASA Biome Guiding Qualification for the relevant biome(s). Your certificate
would state for example; “Biome Guiding: Forest Biome” if you have successfully passed the
Forest Biome theory workbook/ Portfolio of Evidence.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
There is no practical assessment for this qualification as you would have already been
declared competent for your guiding skills in one of the FGASA nature or marine guiding
qualifications.
What learning materials do I need for the FGASA Biome Guiding qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. The FGASA L1 & L2 Learner Manuals
2. The FGASA Biome Guiding Workbook (within the FGASA Level 2 Learner SP)
3. Trees of Southern Africa – B & P van Wyk
4. Relevant books on geology, plants and animals for the specific biome
Recommended reading to improve your knowledge:
1. National Parks and Nature Reserves, A South African Field Guide - Matilda & Chris Stuart
2. The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland – Mucina and Rutherford (Also available on CD)
The FGASA Biome Guide Syllabus includes the following modules for each of the Biome
qualifications with some variation among some of them:
Module number
MODULE NAME
1. Geographical regions and associated vegetation types
2. Indicator animal and plant species in the biome
3. Ecology of the biome and its various sub-divisions
4. The geology, climate and general weather patterns of the biome and its geographical sub-regions
5. The protected areas of natural interest within the biome
6. Conservation management of the biome and the human influences on the biome
For details pertaining to the Biome Guiding syllabus and assessment requirements refer
to the FGASA Biome Guiding Learner Support Pack. (Part of the Level 2 Support Pack &
Level 3 Workbook No2)
FGASA ©2013 80
National Biome Guide
At this level the Biome Guide:
Is operating as a nature guide specialising in all the biomes at an intermediate level of knowledge.
Has an intermediate level of knowledge considered essential to conduct a guided biome experience in all the biomes of Southern Africa.
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding or marine guiding qualification (Level 1, Level 2 or Level 3).
Has been declared competent against all the Biome theoretical workbook assessments.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
The FGASA Certificate for this qualification will indicate “National Biome Guide”.
4.7 Horse Guiding Qualifications
Horse guides are guides who are operating as a nature guide specialising in guiding from
horseback. The horse guide has already attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification (Level 1,
2 or 3) and the horse guide who is operating in Dangerous game areas must have also attained
the FGASA Trails Guide qualification. The objective of these qualifications is to equip existing
guides with the skills required to conduct a horse trail through the natural environment and to
care for their horses properly.
The FGASA Horse Guiding Qualifications are made up of the following:
In South Africa, equine and equestrian qualifications are issued by EQASA (the Equestrian
Qualifications Authority of SA) and nature guiding qualifications are available through FGASA.
In order to be a professional horse guide, a candidate needs to acquire skills in both fields.
FGASA and EQASA have joined forces to provide qualifications and promote professionalism in
the horse guiding industry.
If you are an experienced horse guide, currently or previously working in the horse safari or
horse trails industry and can submit proof of your competence, you can apply to FGASA to be
RPL‟d (Recognition of prior learning) at the level at which you have experience. Please note
the special requirements for dangerous game areas.
Horse Guiding Qualifications (Non-Dangerous Game)
Assistant Horse Guide
Lead Horse Guide
Advanced Lead Horse Guide
Horse Guiding Qualifications (Dangerous Game)
Dangerous Game Assistant Horse Guide
Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
Dangerous Game Advanced Lead Horse Guide
FGASA ©2013 81
HOW DO I OBTAIN THE EQASA QUALIFICATIONS
1. Log on to the EQASA website at www.sanip.org.za 2. Register with EQASA and pay your annual membership fee of R200 per year. This
will give you access to the website, the EQASA syllabus, applications for exams, services and all other information.
3. If you believe you are competent through work experience at the required level, you may apply to EQASA for RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning). Follow the procedure on the website for RPL and pay the relevant fee.
4. If you want to apply to be examined at either Module 1,2, 3, 4 or 5, follow the procedure on the website for applying for examination dates and pay the following examination fees : Candidates must have a valid Level 1 First Aid certificate.
For details pertaining to all the FGASA and EQASA Horse Guiding certificates,
syllabus and assessment requirements refer to the FGASA Horse Guiding Learner
Manual.
FGASA Assistant Horse Guide (Non-dangerous game areas)
FGASA ASSISTANT HORSE GUIDE
The guide who attains this qualification will be able to work as an Assistant Horse Guide with a
horse trail operation.
At this level the guide:
• Is operating as a qualified nature guide specialising in horse guiding as an Assistant Horse Guide.
• Has the basic knowledge considered essential to legally work as an Assistant Horse Guide.
• Has been declared competent against the requirements of the Unit Standard 265055: Develop riding proficiency and basic schooling of horses.
• Has been declared competent against the requirements of a FGASA Nature guiding certificate and the Assistant Horse Guiding certificate.
• Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get the FGASA Assistant Horse Guiding Qualification?
Once you have attained either a FGASA Local guide, Level 1, 2 or 3 nature guiding qualification
you are eligible to work towards the FGASA Assistant Horse Guiding Qualification.
You are required to be practically declared competent for the following Unit Standard 265055:
Develop riding proficiency and basic schooling of horses as well as the EQASA Modules 1 & 2.
You will be assessed by a qualified assessor for the Unit Standard 265055.
Once you have been declared competent for both of the above, then you will be awarded the
FGASA Assistant Horse Guiding Qualification.
There is no FGASA practical assessment for the Assistant Horse Guiding qualification.
FGASA ©2013 82
What learning materials do I need for the FGASA Assistant Horse Guiding Qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. The relevant EQASA Horse Guiding Learning materials for Modules 1 & 2
2. The Horse Guide Learner Manual – Wendy Adams, Jill du Preez & Grant Hine
FGASA Lead Horse Guide (Non-dangerous game areas)
The guide who attains this qualification will be able to conduct a guided horse riding experience
as a lead guide on a horse trail.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a qualified nature guide specialising in horse guiding as a lead horse guide in non-dangerous game areas.
Has the knowledge considered essential to conduct a horse guided experience as a FGASA Lead Horse Guide in non-dangerous game areas.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the EQASA Module 3 - Certificate of Horsemastership and Module 4 – Certificate of Horsemastership & Preliminary Riding instruction.
Has logged 260 days of practical experience of stable management and trail riding as an assistant horse guide
Has been declared competent against the requirements of a FGASA nature guiding certificate.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Lead Horse guiding certificate (Non-dangerous game areas):
o Prepare horses and clients for a trail ride of up to one day o Conduct a horse trail of up to one day
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
Once you have been assessed by an EQASA assessor for the EQASA
Modules 1 & 2 (Unit Standard 265055) you will need to submit a copy of the
relevant proof issued by your EQASA assessor to the FGASA office in order
for a FGASA Assistant Horse Guide Certificate to be issued to you.
FGASA ©2013 83
How do I get the FGASA Lead Horse Guiding Qualification?
Once you have attained the FGASA Assistant Horse guiding qualification you are eligible to
work towards the FGASA Lead Horse Guiding Qualification.
You are required to attain the following through an EQASA training provider or through self-
study:
EQASA Module 3: Certificate of Horsemastership
EQASA Module 4:
Certificate of Horsemastership & preliminary riding instruction
You will be assessed by an EQASA qualified assessor for the EQASA Module 3 and 4.
Once you have been declared competent for the EQASA Module 3 and 4 and have logged 260
days of practical experience of stable management and trail riding as an assistant horse guide,
then you are eligible to be assessed by FGASA for:
Prepare horses and clients for a trail ride of up to one day
Conduct a horse trail of up to one day
The practical Assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
you can prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the FGASA Horse Guiding Learner
Support Pack for details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the
assessor and does not come via the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Lead Horse Guide practical assessment you
will have attained the FGASA Lead Horse Guide Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
What learning materials do I need for the FGASA Lead Horse Guide Qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. The Horse Guide Learner Manual - Wendy Adams, Jill du Preez, Grant Hine
2. The BHS Complete Manual of Stable Management (EQASA)
Recommended reading list
The Threshold Guide to Lungeing – Book #36
SANEF Notes on Business Management (Viv Woollon)
A Guide to the Animal Diseases in South Africa – Horses, Donkeys and Mules (Pamela Oberon)
The Complete Equine Veterinary Manual (T&M Pavord)
The Principles of Riding (Official Handbook of the German National Equestrian Federation)
The BHS Instructors Manual for Teaching Riding (Islay Auty)
FGASA ©2013 84
THE SYLLABUS FOR THE FGASA LEAD HORSE GUIDE QUALIFICATION
This guide will be able to conduct a guided experience as a Lead horse guide.
The FGASA Lead Horse Guiding Syllabus includes the following:
Module number
MODULE NAME
1. Supervise the completion of documentation for a horse trail of up to one day
2. Select and prepare a horse for a horse trail
3. Prepare clients for a horse trail of up to one day
4. Conduct a guided horse trail
5. Manage rest stops during the trail
6. Conclude the horse trail
THE FGASA PRACTICAL HORSE GUIDING ASSESSMENT
A professional horse guide has attained the relevant EQASA Certificates and FGASA Certificates and needs to be able to demonstrate all of the following:
Demonstrate safe handling and leading of horses in stable and yard.
Demonstrate strong intermediate riding skills
Demonstrate and discuss general horsemanship skills
Demonstrate ability to teach and assist clients with riding skills
Demonstrate ability to assess faults in a horses training and ability to re-train the horse (ethically!)
Discuss selecting suitable horses
Discuss selecting suitable tack
Discuss and show knowledge of breeds
Demonstrate knowledge of tack and equipment, including different bits
Demonstrate knowledge of correct fit of tack
Demonstrate tacking up and un-tacking
Demonstrate how to load a pack horse (if applicable)
Demonstrate loading and unloading horses from vehicle transport (This is done in EQASA practical exam)
Demonstrate and discuss emergency and evacuation procedures for both horses and riders
Demonstrate knowledge of veterinary supplies and horse first aid
Demonstrate and lead a guided riding experience, including leadership and authority
FGASA ©2013 85
FGASA Advanced Lead Horse Guide (Non-dangerous game areas)
The guide who attains this qualification will be able to conduct a guided horse riding experience
as an Advanced Lead Guide on a horse trail.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a qualified nature guide specialising in horse guiding as a lead horse guide in non-dangerous game areas.
Has the knowledge considered essential to conduct a horse guided experience as a FGASA Lead Horse Guide in non-dangerous game areas.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the EQASA Module 5 – Certificate of Horsemastership, Horsemanship & riding instruction – Level 1.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of a FGASA nature guiding certificate.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of the FGASA Lead Horse guiding certificate (Non-dangerous game areas): Conduct and manage a multi-day horse trail
Has been declared competent against the requirements of a FGASA nature guiding certificate and the Advanced Lead Horse guiding certificate (Non-dangerous game areas).
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
FGASA ©2013 86
WHAT
THE FGASA HORSE GUIDE QUALIFICATIONS (Non-Dangerous Game)
No
No
Yes
You will have to attain the
FGASA Local or Level 1 nature
guiding qualification and
provide proof of this
attainment.
Do you have the FGASA Local Guide or Level 1 nature
guiding Qualification?
You will be awarded with the FGASA Advanced Lead Horse Guide Certificate
Yes
You will have to attain the
required US: Develop riding
proficiency and basic schooling
of horses and the EQASA
Modules 1 & 2. Have you attained the: EQASA Module 3 - Certificate
of Horsemastership
EQASA Module 4 - Certificate of Horsemastership &
Preliminary Riding Instruction
No You will have to have logged (including
back-dating) at least 260 days of active
practical stable management and trail
riding experience as an Assistant Horse
Guide
No
You will have to be assessed
for the FGASA Lead Horse
Guide qualification.
Have you been declared competent against the unit standard:
Develop riding proficiency and basic schooling of horses and
EQASA Modules 1 & 2?
You will be awarded the FGASA Assistant
Horse Guiding Qualification
Have you logged 260 days of practical experience of
stable management and trail riding as an Assistant
Horse Guide?
Yes
Yes
Yes
No You will have to attain the required
EQASA Module 3 & 4 through an
EQASA provider or through self study
HORSE GUIDING
You will be awarded the FGASA
Lead Horse Guiding Qualification
(Non-Dangerous Game areas)
Yes
You are eligible to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Lead Horse Guide (Non-dangerous game areas) qualification
Yes
Have you been assessed and declared competent by a FGASA assessor for the FGASA Lead Horse Guide Certificate:
Prepare horses and clients for a trail ride of up to one day
Conduct a horse trail of up to one day
Yes
Have you attained the EQASA Module 5?
Certificate of Horsemastership
Horsemanship & Riding Instruction Level 1
No You will have to attain the required
EQASA Module 5 through an EQASA
training provider or through self study
Yes
No
You will have to be assessed
for the FGASA Lead Horse
Guide qualification.
Yes
Yes
Have you been assessed and declared competent by a FGASA assessor for the FGASA Advanced Lead Horse Guide Certificate:
Conduct and manage a multi-day horse trail
FGASA ©2013 87
Dangerous Game Horse Guiding Qualifications
Please refer to the matrix for details of all the requirements set out by FGASA (and
EQASA) to be eligible for the various FGASA Horse Guide qualifications in the Horse
Guiding Learner Support Pack.
FGASA Dangerous Game Assistant Horse Guide
FGASA Dangerous Game Assistant Horse guide
After having attained experience as a FGASA Advanced Lead Horse Guide and having attained
the FGASA VPDA Certificate, the FGASA Dangerous Game Assistant Horse Guide certificate
enables the guide to now operate as an assistant to gain experience guiding on horseback in
dangerous game areas. The idea behind this is to learn from a Dangerous Game Lead Horse
Guide for 1 year (260 days) of active horse guiding experience in a dangerous game area.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a qualified Horse Trails Guide specialising as an assistant horse guide in dangerous game areas.
Has knowledge considered essential to conduct a horse guided experience in dangerous game areas as a FGASA Assistant Horse Guide.
Has been declared competent against the requirements of a FGASA VPDA Certificate and the Advanced Lead Horse Guide (non-dangerous game) qualification.
Has the required SASSETA and FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling certificate if s/he is going to be carrying a rifle to conduct horse guided experiences in dangerous game areas.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
The guide who attains this qualification will be able to guide clients on a safe, well conducted
horseback excursion with the intention to view animals which are potentially dangerous, with
efficiency and maximum safety to the guests, the horses and themselves. The guide who attains
this qualification will be able to conduct a guided horse riding experience as a lead guide on a
horse trail in areas of dangerous animals.
FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
Once the individual has attained 1 year (260 days) of guiding experience as an assistant horse
guide in dangerous game areas (at least two of the Big 5), s/he is eligible to be assessed for the
FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide qualification.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a qualified Horse Trails Guide specialising as a lead guide in dangerous game areas.
Has knowledge considered essential to conduct a horse guided experience in dangerous game areas as a FGASA Lead Horse Guide.
FGASA ©2013 88
Has been declared competent against the requirements of a FGASA VPDA Certificate and the Dangerous Game Horse guide theoretical and practical assessment.
o Conduct a guided experience on horseback to view potentially dangerous animals
Has the required SASSETA and FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling Certificate if s/he is going to be carrying a rifle to conduct horse guided experiences in dangerous game areas.
Has logged 260 days active guiding experience as an assistant horse-guide in dangerous game areas.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get a FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding Qualification?
Once you have attained either a FGASA Local guide, Level 1, 2 or 3 nature guiding
qualification, the FGASA Dangerous Game Assistant Horse Guiding Qualification and the
FGASA VPDA Certificate or the Trails guide qualification you can apply to be practically
assessed for the FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse guide.
The practical assessment for the Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding qualification is carried
out by a registered FGASA assessor in a dangerous game horse guiding area of your choice.
You will need to take the assessor on a guided horseback experience in a relevant dangerous
game area of your choice (with or without paying clients), preferably with clients.
The practical assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
that you can prepare yourself for this assessment. (Refer to the FGASA Horse Guiding Learner
Support Pack for details.) Payment for your practical assessment is made directly to the
assessor and does not come via the FGASA office.
Once you have been declared competent for the Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding
practical assessment you will have attained the FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding
Qualification.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
What learning materials do I need for the Advanced Horse Guiding Qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory:
1. The Horse Guide Learner Manual - Wendy Adams, Jill du Preez & Grant Hine
2. The FGASA Horse Guiding Workbook
The following Dangerous game learning materials:
1. The Trails Guide Manual – Grant Hine
2. Beat about the Bush (Mammals) – Trevor Carnaby
3. A photographic guide to Tracks and Tracking in Southern Africa – L. Liebenberg
FGASA ©2013 89
THE SYLLABUS FOR THE DANGEROUS GAME LEAD HORSE GUIDING QUALIFICATION
Module number
MODULE NAME
1. Prepare to conduct a guided nature experience on horse-back in areas where potentially dangerous animals may occur
2. Prepare guests and horses for the guided experience on horse-back with the aim of viewing potentially dangerous animals
3. Interpret the behaviour of animals in the broader ecological context in terms of human and horse safety
4. Maintain constant monitoring of the experience and environment
5. Lead an advanced guided horse-back experience to view potentially dangerous animals
6. Handle emergency situations that arise while leading an advanced guided experience on horse-back to view potentially dangerous animals
7. Demonstrate correct firearm use while ensuring the safety of Participants
For details pertaining to the FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding syllabus and
assessment requirements refer to the FGASA Horse Guiding Learner Manual.
FGASA Advanced Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
FGASA Advanced Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
This certificate is awarded to a guide who has qualified as a FGASA Dangerous Game Lead
Horse Guide and can show proof of experience of horse guiding as a lead guide with all of the
Big 5 animals. This experience (logged in the FGASA Dangerous Game logbook) may be
representative of having worked in different reserves (areas) in order to accumulate experience
with all of the Big 5.
Experience is required on horseback as the lead guide in areas with all of the Big 5 animals.
Once your logbook experience has been verified you will be awarded the FGASA Advanced
Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
For details pertaining to the FGASA Advanced Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding
requirements and any information on the FGASA Horse guiding RPL process refer to the
FGASA Horse Guiding Learner Support Pack.
FGASA ©2013 90
WHAT
THE FGASA HORSE GUIDE QUALIFICATIONS (Dangerous Game)
No
No
Yes
You will have to attain the
FGASA VPDA Certificate and
provide proof of this
attainment.
Do you have the FGASA VPDA Certificate?
You will be awarded with the FGASA Advanced Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide
Certificate
Yes
You will have to attain the
required EQASA Module 5
through an EQASA training
provider or self study
Have you logged 1 year (260 days) of practical experience as an assistant horse guide in dangerous game areas.
No
You will have to have logged at least 260 days of practical experience as an assistant horse guide in dangerous game areas.
No
You will have to be assessed for the
FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse
Guide qualification.
Have you attained the EQASA Module 5?
Certificate of Horsemastership
Horsemanship & riding instruction Level One
You will be awarded the FGASA Dangerous
Game Assistant Horse Guide Qualification
Have you been assessed and declared competent by a FGASA assessor for the FGASA Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide Certificate
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
HORSE GUIDING (Dangerous Game)
You will be awarded the FGASA
Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guiding
Qualification
Yes
You are eligible to be practically assessed for the FGASA
Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide qualification
Yes
Have you attained the required experience as
Lead Horse guide with all of the Big 5?
Has your Dangerous Game log book been signed off by a mentor and verified by the FGASA office?
No
You will have to attain the required experience
as a Lead Horse Guide with all of the Big 5.
Yes
You will have to have your Dangerous Game log book signed off by a mentor and verified by the FGASA office?
Yes
THE USE OF A RIFLE (A separate Certificate)
If you are going to be carrying a rifle to conduct guided experiences as a Dangerous
Game Assistant Horse Guide / Dangerous Game Lead Horse Guide or an Advanced
Dangerous Game Lead Guide to view potentially dangerous animals then refer to the
section in this information book on the FGASA Rifle Handling Qualifications.
FGASA ©2013 91
4.8 Wildflower Guiding Qualifications
There are two Wildflower Guiding Qualifications which can be attained through FGASA:
Local Wildflower Guide
Regional Wildflower Guide
SKS(Wildflower) Guide
Local Wildflower Guide
A Local Wildflower guide is a FGASA guide operating as a nature site guide specialising in
guided wildflower experiences in a specific game reserve, nature reserve or botanical garden.
The Local Wildflower guide has already attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification. The
objective of this qualification is to equip existing guides with the skills required to conduct a wild
flower experience with a specific natural environment.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a nature guide specialising in wildflower knowledge as a specialist wildflower guide in a particular reserve or botanical garden.
The competence of wildflower guiding at this level is assessed within a specific reserve or botanical garden site.
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification (Local, Level 1, 2 or 3).
Has been declared competent against the FGASA Wildflower guiding skills practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
Regional Wildflower Guide
A Regional Wildflower guide is a FGASA guide operating as a nature site guide specialising in
guided wildflower experiences.
The Wildflower guide has already attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification. The objective
of this qualification is to equip existing guides with the skills required to conduct a wild flower
experience through the natural environment.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a nature guide specialising in wildflower knowledge in a particular region or Biome(s).
May be operating as a competent Regional Wildflower Guide in a number of different sites, areas or biomes. The competence of wildflower guiding at this level is assessed within different vegetation areas or biomes.
Has attained a FGASA nature guiding qualification (Local, Level 1, 2 or 3).
Has been declared competent against the FGASA wildflower slide assessment and the wildflower guiding skills practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
FGASA ©2013 92
How do I get a FGASA Regional Wildflower Qualification?
Once you have attained any one of the following nature guiding qualifications or higher:
FGASA Local or Level 1 nature guide qualification
or a Full Tracking qualification (including create a guided experience for customers - if this unit standard not included in the tracking qualification then it will have to be included in the wildflower practical assessment)
You will then be eligible to apply to be practically assessed for the FGASA Regional Wildflower
Guiding Qualification by means of:
A slide assessment
A wildflower guiding skills practical assessment.
IMPORTANT: You will only be eligible for the wildflower guiding skills practical assessment
once you have been declared competent for the wildflower Slide assessment.
There is no theory examination for the Regional wildflower guide qualification.
The practical assessment for the Regional wildflower guide qualification is carried out by a
registered FGASA wildflower assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take
the assessor on a guided wildflower experience in a wildflower area or your choice (with or
without paying clients), preferably with clients.
The practical assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
that you can prepare yourself for this assessment. Payment for your practical assessment is
made directly to the assessor and does not come via the FGASA office.
You can choose which vegetation Region/Biome you want to be assessed for. The Slide
assessment will assess all the areas that you want to be assessed for, however the Practical
wildflower skills assessment will take place in one area only in order to assess wildflower
guiding skills.
Once you have been declared competent for the Wildflower Slide assessment and the
Wildflower skills practical assessment you will have attained the FGASA Regional Wildflower
Guide Qualification for the specific area/Biome in which you have been assessed competent to
guide in. The Regional Wildflower Guiding Certificate will reflect which areas you have been
assessed competent to guide in. For example: Waterberg Wildflower Guide. If you are
assessed as competent for all the areas (biomes) you will be deemed a National Wildflower
Guide.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
FGASA ©2013 93
This qualification will require the following:
The guide will be assessed by means of the Wildflower Slide assessment.
The guide will be assessed by means of a Wildflower Skills Practical assessment.
There is no theory examination for this qualification.
The Slide assessment (visual identification)
This assessment consists of one section for each of the vegetation areas / biomes that you wish
to be assessed for.
The slide identification assessment will consist of between 100 and
200 slides depending on the particular area you are being assessed
for. The variations in the number of slides used for the assessment
will depend on the total number of known species of flowers in the
area. A certain percentage of flowers in the area will be used for the
slide identification assessment. You will be required to name both
the common name and the scientific name of each flower depicted in
the slide. If there is no known common name for a particular flower
you will need to state this apart from giving the full scientific name.
Wildflower Lists All wildflower species lists that you are required to know for all areas in the country will be obtainable from the FGASA office. These lists will inform you of what species you need to know for the particular areas in terms of identification. These wildflower lists can be emailed to you or you can obtain a copy of the lists from the FGASA office.
What learning materials do I need for the Regional Wildflower Guide qualification?
The following learning materials are recommended:
There are many books on wildflowers, most of which are very specific to particular areas. It is
recommended that you make use of any flower identification books that are relevant to your
area of guiding operation.
Some examples:
Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Highveld – Van Wyk and Malan
A Field Guide to the Proteas of Southern Africa – Rebelo
Field Guide to Fynbos – Manning
Wild flowers of South Africa – John Manning
Wild flowers of KZN & the eastern region – Elsa Pooley
Mountain flowers – Elsa Pooley
Common Wild flowers of the Okavango Delta – Veronica Roodt.
South African wildflower Guides : Namaqualand / Outeniqua / Cape Peninsula Transvaal Lowveld & Escarpment / Hottentots Holland to Hermanus / Karoo /
West Coast / Southern Overberg / Nieuvoudtville
FGASA ©2013 94
The SKS (Wildflowers) Qualification
The SKS wildflower guide is a professional nature guide who specialises in guided wildflower
experiences. This guide is able to interpret the wildflower environment and conduct a wildflower
experience at an advanced level of knowledge and skill. This guide has the ability to integrate
the wildflower experience into the broader ecological environment.
At this level the guide:
Is operating as a professional nature guide specialising in wildflower guiding as a specialist wildflower guide at an advanced level.
May be operating as a competent Specialist Wildflower Guide in a number of different sites, areas or biomes. The competence of wildflower guiding at this level is assessed within different vegetation areas or biomes.
Has attained a FGASA Level 3 nature guiding qualification.
Has been declared competent against the FGASA wildflower theory examination assessment, the slide assessment and the wildflower guiding skills practical assessment.
Has a valid, up-to-date recognised First Aid certificate.
How do I get a FGASA SKS (Wildflowers) qualification?
Once you have attained the FGASA Level 3 nature guiding qualification you will be eligible to
apply write the SKS (wildflower) theoretical examination to be practically assessed for the
FGASA Specialist Wildflower Guiding Qualification by means of:
A wildflower theory examination
A wildflower slide assessment
A wildflower guiding skills practical assessment.
Application and payment:
Theory examination: You will need to send your exam application form and proof of payment
for the SKS(wildflowers) theory examination to the FGASA office. Remember that examination
applications close 1 month before the set national examination sitting.
IMPORTANT: You will only be eligible for the wildflower guiding skills practical assessment
once you have been declared competent for the wildflower theory examination and the
Wildflower Slide assessment.
The practical assessment for the SKS (wildflower) qualification is carried out by a registered
FGASA wildflower assessor in a guiding area of your choice. You will need to take the assessor
on a guided wildflower experience in a wildflower area or your choice (with or without paying
clients), preferably with clients.
FGASA ©2013 95
The practical assessment will be explained to you in detail by your assessor in the pre-
assessment brief. The assessor will make sure that you know what you will be assessed on so
that you can prepare yourself for this assessment. Payment for your practical assessment is
made directly to the assessor and does not come via the FGASA office.
You can choose which vegetation areas / biomes you want to be assessed for. The Slide
assessment will assess all the areas that you want to be assessed for, however the practical
Wildflower Skills Assessment will take place in one area only in order to assess Wildflower
guiding skills.
Once you have been declared competent for the Wildflower theory examination, the Slide
Assessment and the wildflower skills practical assessment you will have attained the FGASA
SKS (Wildflower) Qualification for the specific area/Biome in which you have been assessed
competent to guide in. The SKS (Wildflowers) qualification (and certificate) will reflect which
areas you have been assessed competent to guide in. For example: SKS (Wildflowers) -
Waterberg. If you have been assessed as competent for all the areas (biomes) you will be
deemed an SKS (Wildflower) National guide.
See section 3.6 as to when you will be awarded your qualification.
This qualification will require the following:
The theory examination.
The guide will be assessed by means of the Wildflower slide assessment.
The guide will be assessed by means of a Wildflower skills Practical assessment.
The Slide assessment (visual identification)
This assessment consists of one section for each of the vegetation areas / biomes that you wish
to be assessed for.
The slide identification assessment will consist of between 100 and 200 slides depending on the
particular area you are being assessed for. The variations in the number of slides used for the
assessment will depend on the total number of known species of flowers in the area. A certain
percentage of flowers in the area will be used for the slide identification assessment. You will
be required to name both the common name and the scientific name of each flower depicted in
the slide. If there is no known common name for a particular flower you will need to state this
apart from giving the full scientific name.
Wildflower Lists All species lists that you are required to know for all the areas in the country will be obtainable from the FGASA office. These lists will inform you of what species you need to know for the particular areas in terms of identification. These wildflower lists can be emailed to you or you can obtain a copy of the lists from the FGASA office.
FGASA ©2013 96
What learning materials do I need for the SKS (wildflower) qualification?
The following learning materials are compulsory :
1. Wildflower Learner Manual – Lee Gutteridge
The following learning materials are recommended:
There are many books on wildflowers, most of which are very specific to particular areas. It is
recommended that you make use of any flower identification books that are relevant to your
area of guiding operation.
Some examples:
Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Highveld – Van Wyk and Malan
A Field Guide to the Proteas of Southern Africa – Rebelo
Field Guide to Fynbos – John Manning
Wild flowers of South Africa – John Manning
Wild flowers of KZN & the eastern region – Elsa Pooley
Mountain flowers – Elsa Pooley
Common Wild flowers of the Okavango Delta – Veronica Roodt.
South African wildflower Guides : Namaqualand / Outeniqua / Cape Peninsula Transvaal Lowveld & Escarpment / Hottentots Holland to Hermanus / Karoo /
West Coast / Southern Overberg / Nieuvoudtville
THE SYLLABUS FOR THE FGASA SKS (WILDFLOWER) QUALIFICATION
The FGASA SKS(Wildflower) Syllabus includes the following modules:
Module number
MODULE NAME
1. Classification of flowers
2. Flower morphology and structure
3. Plant physiology
4. Plant reproduction
5. Seed types, dispersal and association with other plants
6. Carnivorous and other interesting plant behaviour
7. Medicinal preparations and uses
The Wildflower qualifications are currently available for the following areas:
The Waterberg/The Okavango Delta/The Lowveld/The Eastern Cape
Other regions are currently being developed to ensure that wildflower guides countrywide can
be given recognition for their speciality.
FGASA ©2013 97
4.9 ADDITIONAL FGASA CERTIFICATES
Accumulation of certificates working towards a qualification
FGASA has introduced a system whereby once you are a member of FGASA, you can improve
your own knowledge and be awarded certificates for your achievements or if you are a guide
you can start to accumulate certain certificates that contribute towards the FGASA Level 2 and
Level 3 qualifications.
Both these qualifications require a certain amount of experience to do the final theory and
practical assessment. However there are other components made up of FGASA certificates
which can be completed before you have logged the required experience for your final theory
and practical assessment for the relevant qualification.
A few more stand-alone certificates will be added in the near future for you to complete.
FGASA will issue you with the relevant certificate and record your achievement on the database
for accumulation towards FGASA Level 2 and 3.
FGASA CERTIFICATES FOR ACCUMULATION
METHOD OF ASSESSMENT
PART OF
FGASA SAFETY & EMERGENCY CERTIFICATE
WORKBOOK L2 / 3
FGASA BIOME CERTIFICATE (RELEVANT BIOME)
WORKBOOK L2 / 3
FGASA BIRDING SPECIALIST CERTIFICATE
THEORETICAL & PRACTICAL
SLIDE & SOUND & WORKBOOK
L2 / 3
FGASA RESEARCH AND DESIGN CERTIFICATE
WORKBOOK L2 / 3
SOUTH AFRICA GENERAL KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE
WORKBOOK L 3
FGASA WILDFLOWER SPECIALIST CERTIFICATE THEORETICAL & PRACTICAL
FGASA COMMERCIAL CAVE KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE WORKBOOK
GUIDING TOURISM MANAGEMENT CERTIFICATE WORKBOOK L 3
GUIDING CONSERVATION MANAGEMENT
CERTIFICATE WORKBOOK
L 3
FGASA ©2013 98
4.10 Knowledge Certificates – Associate members
Knowledge Certificates offered by FGASA are for any paid-up member (be they a guide or not)
who would like to improve their own knowledge in certain fields and to be given recognition for
this by means of earning a FGASA Certificate on successful completion of the relevant
workbooks.
The following non-guiding Knowledge Certificates are available for any paid-up member of the
Association.
Entry requirements for all these certificates are that you are paid-up member with FGASA
Method of assessment for all these certificates is by means of successfully completing a
workbook.
The cost of these certificates includes the purchase of the workbook and the moderation fee.
Recommended learning material
The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and
Swaziland (CDRom version available from
Kalahari.net). Other relevant biome books.
BIOME
KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE
Recommended learning material
Introduction to South Africa (obtainable
from the FGASA office).
SAFETY &
EMERGENCY
KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE
Recommended learning materials
for both these certificates
The Guiding Skills Learner Manual
RESEARCH AND DESIGN CERTIFICATE
FGASA ©2013 99
Recommended learning material
Managing tourism in South Africa
(Available at the FGASA office)
Members can also sit in the FGASA office and make use of one of the FGASA library copies of the prescribed reading
GUIDING TOURISM
MANAGEMENT KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE
Recommended learning material
The Story of Life and the Environment an
African perspective
Members can also sit in the FGASA office and make use of one of the FGASA library copies of the prescribed reading
GUIDING CONSERVATION
MANAGEMENT KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE
BIRDING KNOWLEDGE
CERTIFICATE
Recommended learning material
Beat about the Bush: Birds
FGASA ©2013 100
Recommended learning material
Commercial Cave Guiding – Kerry Slater
(Available at the FGASA office)
Required learning material:
The sappi Tree Spotting book for
the relevant area.
Entry requirements for all these
certificates are that you are paid-
up member (including Associate
members) with FGASA.
Method of assessment for all
these certificates is by means of
successfully completing a
workbook.
LOWVELD REGION
HIGHLANDS REGION
BUSHVELD REGION
CAPE REGION
KWA-ZULU NATAL AND
EASTERN CAPE REGION
COMMERCIAL CAVE
KNOWLEDGE CERTIFICATE
THE FGASA/sappi TREE KNOWLEDGE CERTIFICATES
FGASA ©2013 101
4.11 Guiding Registration Categories
In order to guide legally in South Africa learners who have achieved recognised guiding
qualifications through a CATHSSETA accredited provider will have to register with the
Department of Tourism. (Refer to the next section on Guide registration in South Africa)
This registration is based on a number of categories depending on the type of guiding
qualification a learner has achieved and the speciality in which the learner has been declared
competent for.
Tourist guide registration may take the form of the following categories:
Site Guide
A Site guide is a learner who has been assessed as competent against a skills programme or
speciality to guide within a specific site or a number of specific sites. A “Site” usually refers to a
particular Game or Nature reserve, National Park, Botanical Garden, Bird Sanctuary, Museum,
etc.
As a Site Guide you cannot guide throughout an entire region or province, you are restricted to
conducting guided experiences within the Sites for which you have been declared competent to
guide in.
Regional Guide
A Regional guide is a learner who has been assessed as competent against a skills programme
or speciality to guide within a specific region or a number of different regions. A “Region”
usually refers to a Biome or a specific route such as the “Garden Route”. Thus a region may
include a number of specific sites for which the guide is competent to guide in.
Provincial Guide
A Provincial guide is a learner who has been assessed as competent against the Further
Education and Training Certificate in Tourism: Guiding (FETC) to guide within a specific
province or a number of provinces.
National Guide
A National guide is a learner who has been assessed as competent against the Further
Education and Training Certificate in Tourism: Guiding (FETC) to guide throughout the entire
country across all nine provinces.
You cannot be signed off to guide in an entire Province if you have
only attained a Skills programme. You can only guide in the Sites for
which you have been declared competent to guide in.
FGASA ©2013 102
Unit Standards, Skills Programme and National Certificates
It is important that members understand how the National Qualifications and in turn the FGASA
qualifications are structured.
What is a unit standard?
Very briefly, unit standards are the building blocks of national qualifications. A unit standard is a
registered statement of desired education and training outcomes with its associated criteria.
In other words unit standards:
Describe what it is that “we” want to recognise.
Inform us how well an individual should know a specific topic or how well s/he should be able to do something.
Gives information on the conditions under which the outcomes must be achieved.
Describe what people (in our case guides) should be capable of.
Inform learning programme developers of what outcomes of learning ought to be and inform assessors as to what must be assessed and the quality of the evidence required.
An example of a unit standard: Conduct a guided nature experience in a limited geographical
area (NQF2) 20 credits
What is a Skills programme?
A Skills programme is theoretically a short learning programme made up of a number of unit
standards that will constitute credits towards a qualification registered on the National
Qualifications Framework (NQF).
An example of a Skills programme:
Nature Site Guide (NQF2)
[Equivalent to the FGASA Level 1 qualification]
This Skills programme (above) is made up of the following unit standards:
Conduct a guided nature experience in a limited geographical area
Create a guided experience for customers
Skills programmes are not registered with SAQA but with the relevant Sector Education &
Training Authority (SETA), in our case this would be CATHSSETA.
What is a Qualification?
A qualification on the NQF is a planned combination of learning outcomes which has a defined
purpose or purposes and which is intended to provide qualifying learners with applied
competence and a basis for further learning.
FGASA ©2013 103
A “full” qualification consists of a large number of unit standards which are compulsory (the Core
and Fundamental unit standards) and a number of Elective unit standards which are based on
certain specialisations within a particular industry (for example the specialist guiding in the
tourism industry). A qualification may consist of a large number of unit standards, which may be
more than 25 in total, most of which would be compulsory in order to attain the qualification.
Qualifications are developed and then submitted to SAQA for registration on the NQF (National
Qualifications Framework). Once the qualification is registered then the SETAs make use of
Skills Programme committees to develop relevant Skills programmes for their particular SETA.
A Skills programme (made up of unit standards) must be developed out of the unit standards
contained within a full qualification. This would allow individuals who have attained a skills
programme certificate to work towards attaining a full national certificate accumulating credit for
the unit standards already attained in the skills programme.
The system of qualification development and implementation will change in the near future once
the QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) take over the responsibility of
managing qualification development and assessment.
QUALIFICATION
QUALIFICATION
Core unit
standards
Fundamental
unit standards
Elective unit
standards
A SKILLS PROGRAMME
FGASA ©2013 104
4.12 Guide Registration in South Africa
Registration as a Tourist Guide
Anybody wanting to work as a tourist guide has to first ensure that they have attained a relevant
guiding qualification, i.e. Nature, Culture or Adventure from an accredited training provider such
as the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA). Once a learner has been
awarded the qualification then s/he will need to register to legally carry out the job function as a
tourist guide. Tourism Guiding is governed by the Tourism Act no.72 of 1993. This Act states
that any person or body who wishes to operate as a tourist guide for reward, whether monetary
or otherwise, must:
Register as A Tourist Guide with the relevant Provincial Registrar usually attached to the Provincial Tourism Authority.
Must be in possession of a certificate of competence issued by CATHSSETA on behalf of the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA)
Must have a competence letter from your training provider (members of FGASA are provided with this letter on declaration of competence)
Must sign and abide by the code of conduct and ethics provided by the Provincial registrar.
Only once a guide is registered with the relevant Provincial Tourism Authority will s/he be able
to work as a tourist guide in the areas and specialities that s/he has been declared competent
for. This registration is renewable every two years (subject to change) and a guide will also
need to provide proof of a valid First Aid certificate upon registration which is usually renewable
every three years.
You can find the contact details of the Provincial Registrars offices on the internet under the
Department of tourism website
FGASA ©2013 105
The Requirements for Guide Registration
To register as a Tourist Guide you need to:
Be at least 21 years of age.
Complete the relevant Dept of Tourism application form.
Sign the tourist guide Code of conduct and ethics.
Submit a certified copy of your valid First Aid Certificate (This Certificate must be recognised by the Department of Labour – have a „C‟ number).
Include 4 recent clear, un-mounted and identical full colour photographs of yourself (showing only head and shoulders) measuring 30 x 25mm.
Pay the registration fee preferably in cash or with a bank issued cheque. (this is currently for a two year period of registration – this period may change to 3 years in the near future)
Submit a certified copy of your ID book.
Submit a copy of your work permit/passport (if applicable).
Submit copy of your public driver‟s permit, if you have one (Vehicle guiding).
Submit copies of your curriculum vitae/qualifications (optional).
Submit a copy of your language proficiency certificate (if applicable).
Submit a certified CATHSSETA certificate confirming your training and assessment / or the conditional registration requirements for FGASA qualified guides.
Submit a letter from the Accredited Training provider (FGASA) stating what you have been assessed competent for and for which areas (Site, Region, Provincial, National)
FGASA ©2013 106
5. GUIDING PRINCIPLES AND CODE OF CONDUCT
All members of the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) subscribe to the
“Guiding principles and code of conduct” laid down by the Association. The Code of Conduct is
signed by each member on joining the Association.
ADHERANCE TO UNIVERSAL PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, NORMS AND VALUES I welcome tourists to the country, and promise to serve competently and professionally those
under my guidance, and I endeavour to the best of my ability to satisfy their expectations as
valued guests and visitors to the country by dealing with the applicable tour programme and
itinerary in a responsible and efficient manner.
ADHERANCE TO SOUTH AFRICA’S LAWS, REGULATIONS AND CUSTOMS I adhere to and support the country‟s constitution, laws and regulations, tourism acts and
conservation laws and I undertake to assist tourists under my guidance to respect local laws,
regulations and customs; in addition, I promise to support and uphold the mission and values
of the tourist organisation I represent, and I submit to the applicable controls, sanctions and
disciplinary procedures. I promise to cooperate within my own levels of expertise and
refrain from entering areas for which I am not qualified.
PROMISE TO PROVIDE RELIABLE INFORMATION I undertake to provide knowledgeable, correct, fair and unbiased information on the country
to tourists under my guidance, and I promise to keep an open mind towards comments and
feedback from visitors to the country. I undertake to apply professional skills and knowledge
that I have acquired through training and experience.
UNDERTAKING TO CARE FOR THE SAFETY OF TOURISTS I undertake to implement all reasonable measures to protect the personal safety of tourists
under my guidance, and, in the event of acting as nature guide, I undertake to operate safely
and responsibly in whatever mode of transport is used; in addition, in the event of any
accident, injury, mishap or other situation that compromises the safety of those under my
guidance, I pledge to immediately contact the relevant authority for assistance.
STATEMENT ON FIRST AID PROTOCOLS As a certified first-aider, I adhere to the applicable ethical norms and first-aid procedures, and, when requested for aid, commit myself to provide competent first-aid assistance according to standing protocols.
ATTITUDE OF RESPECT TOWARDS PEOPLE AND THE ENVIRONMENT At all times I treat with respect all people of the world, all languages, all cultures and all
religions, local and other customs, histories and folklore, and the indigenous natural
environment. All guiding activities should be conducted in such a manner as to cause the
least possible damage to the environment and encouragement should be given to remove
litter thus improving the environment.
AVOIDANCE OF DISCRIMINATORY ACTION At all times I refrain from any discriminatory, abusive, insensitive or irresponsible action and
promise to act fairly in the event of any dispute or conflict.
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AVOIDANCE OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE At all times I refrain from and avoid substance abuse, smoking in inappropriate areas, or use
of any narcotic drug, and I promise to maintain my sobriety.
ADHERANCE TO A DRESS CODE I undertake to dress appropriately at all times, and to display the relevant registration badge
as a mark of my professional integrity and standards.
STATEMENT OF RELIABILITY AND RESPONSIBILITY
I undertake to be on time, reliable, honest, conscientious and tactful. The number of people
comprising a party should be appropriate to my qualifications as a guide, the nature of the
trail, the terrain and the type of activities engaged in.
REJECTION OF UNETHICAL MARKETING I do not unethically solicit for clients or for gratuity.
FGASA VALUES AND PRINCIPLES
We expect all our employees to act with honesty, integrity and fairness.
We will assist learners in the tourism industry to have fuller lives –
both through the service we provide and through the impact we have
on the tourism guiding industry around us.
Our members have chosen to trust us. In return we will strive to
anticipate and understand their needs and make them happy through
the service we provide.
We accept responsibility to engage with guiding communities and will
invest in the tourist guiding industry in a way that makes effective use
of our resources, including support for all individuals and
communities.
We are committed to sustainable business practices and
environmental conservation through education.
FGASA ©2013 108
CHAIRMAN
MANAGING DIRECTOR
STANDARDS DIRECTOR
BOOKSHOP MARKETING &
JUNIOR FGASA
PART-TIME STAFF
EXAMINATIONS EXISTING
MEMBERS
NEW
MEMBERS
EXECUTIVE
COMMITTEE
(Regional reps)
FGASA
REGISTERED
ASSESSORS
ACCOUNTS
FGASA
TRAINING
PROVIDERS
SWITCHBOARD
OFFICE ASSISTANT
MEMBERSHIP WITH FGASA AND QUALIFICATIONS
Applicant member Associate member Qualified member Honorary members Corporate member Training providers Assessors Moderators Junior Members
Local Guide Level 1 Nature Level 2 Nature Level 3 Nature Level 1 Marine
Tracker 1 Tracker 2 Tracker 3 Tracker 4 Senior Tracker Master Tracker Scout
Local Bird Guide Regional Bird Guide SKS (Birding) Guide Local wildflower Guide Regional wildflower Guide SKS (Wildflowers) Guide Biome Guide National Biome Guide
VPDA Certificate Back-up Trails Guide Trails Guide Advanced Trails Guide SKS (Dangerous Game)
Rifle Handling
Basic
Advanced (ARH)
NON – EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
WESTERN CAPE LOWVELD SOUTH WATERBERG
EASTERN CAPE
FREESTATE
KWAZULU-NATAL
GAUTENG NORTHERN CAPE
LOWVELD NORTH NORTH WEST OTHER REGIONS
Assistant Horse Guide Lead Horse Guide Advanced Lead Horse Guide DG Assistant Horse Guide DG Lead Horse Guide DG Adv Lead Horse Guide
OPS DIRECTOR
FGASA OFFICE ORGANOGRAM
Associate member knowledge certificates (Non-Guiding)
CORPORATE
MEMBERS
FGASA ©2013 109