SANParks & CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 Intake

South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with CATHSSETA, has officially opened applications for the Field Guiding Skills Programme based at Bontebok National Park. This 18-month fixed-term skills programme offers hands-on training, real workplace exposure, and a monthly stipend, giving unemployed youth a genuine entry point into the conservation and tourism industry.

If you have ever dreamed of working in nature, guiding visitors, protecting wildlife, or building a long-term career in eco-tourism, this opportunity could be life-changing.

Quick Overview

Detail	Information
Programme Name	Field Guiding Skills Programme
Organisation	SANParks & CATHSSETA
Location	Bontebok National Park (Western Cape)
Contract Duration	18 months (6 months training & 12 months placement)
Number of Positions	2
Monthly Stipend	R2 695 (first 6 months) → R3 500 (remaining 12 months)
Closing Date	24 December 2025
Age Limit	Under 35 years
Minimum Qualification	Grade 12
Application Method	Online form & email submission

About the Training: What You Will Learn

Participants in the Field Guiding Skills Programme will undergo structured training combined with practical experience.

Key learning areas include:

Introduction to field guiding principles
Wildlife identification (flora & fauna)
Conservation ethics and safety
Visitor interaction and guiding techniques
Environmental awareness
Professional conduct in protected areas

Training structure:

First 6 months: Skills training with a R2 695 monthly stipend
Following 12 months: Fixed-term contract placement with a R3 500 monthly stipend

Important: SANParks covers training-related expenses when learners are required to attend training away from their home area.

Who Is Eligible to Apply?

To qualify for this programme, applicants must meet ALL of the following requirements:

Minimum Requirements:

Be a South African citizen
Be under the age of 35
Have Grade 12 (Matric)
Be unemployed
Reside within 40–100 km of Bontebok National Park
Have a clear criminal record
Be physically fit
Must not have benefited from previous SANParks skills programmes, learnerships, or internships

This programme is specifically aimed at first-time beneficiaries, ensuring fair access to new participants.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following:

Updated CV
Certified copy of Matric certificate
Certified copy of South African ID
Academic transcripts (if applicable)
Proof of residence

Applications that do not include all required documents will not be considered.

How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Complete the Online Application

Apply using the official SANParks online form here

Step 2: Email Supporting Documents

Email all required documents to:

ANP.vacancies@sanparks.org
Reference number (subject line): FGTMNP_12/2025

Step 3: Wait for Feedback

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
If you do not receive feedback within 14 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful

Enquiries: Mmaphiri Shiko – 072 655 6326

Before you Apply, Check the Edupstairs Youth Tools Hub below that can be helpful in your application

Edupstairs Advice (Read This Carefully)

At Edupstairs, we strongly recommend this opportunity for youth who:

Love nature and outdoor work
Want practical, hands-on training
Are serious about building a conservation or tourism career
Live near national parks but lack access to opportunities

Pro Tips:

Make sure your CV is clear and professional
Use a simple, honest motivation
Double-check your subject line reference number
Apply before the closing date — don’t wait for the last day

Career Growth Path After This Programme

This is not a dead-end programme. Successful participants can progress into:

Field Guide (entry-level)
Nature Conservation Assistant
Eco-Tourism Assistant
Lodge or Reserve Guide
Conservation Officer (with further studies)
Tourism & Hospitality roles within SANParks
Private game reserve employment
Freelance or community-based guiding

Many SANParks trainees go on to:

Register with FGASA
Pursue Nature Conservation diplomas
Work in national parks, private reserves, and lodges

Why CATHSSETA Matters in This Programme

CATHSSETA (Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality and Sport SETA) ensures that:

Training is industry-recognised
Skills align with real labour market needs
Learners gain transferable, accredited experience

This significantly improves employability after programme completion.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is this a learnership?

No. This is a skills programme with structured training and workplace exposure.

Will SANParks employ me permanently after?

SANParks is not obligated to employ learners permanently, but the experience greatly improves employability.

Is accommodation provided?

Training-related expenses are covered when training takes place away from home.

Can I apply if I live far away?

No. Only applicants living within 40–100 km of Bontebok National Park qualify.

Is there an age limit?

Yes. Applicants must be under 35 years old.

CLOSING DATE: 24 DECEMBER 2025

You can also:

Disclaimer

Edupstairs is not the employer
We do not collect applications
Always verify details directly with SANParks
Submitting false information may result in disqualification

EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE

Edupstairs TrustScore™

100 /100

Verified / Low Risk This is an evidence-based risk assessment to help applicants verify opportunities.

OrganisationSANParks & CATHSSETA

SourceOfficial social media (verified)

Apply viaOnline portal

ReferenceFGTMNP_12/2025

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