South African National Parks (SANParks), in partnership with CATHSSETA, invites South African unemployed youth to apply for the Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 Intake.
Programme Application Closing Date: 24 December 2025
Programme Location: Bontebok National Park, Western Cape, South Africa
SANParks & CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 Intake
The SANParks & CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026 is an exciting 18-month fixed-term skills development opportunity designed to equip unemployed youth with practical field guiding skills, conservation knowledge, and workplace experience within South Africa’s national parks system.
This programme offers a structured pathway into the eco-tourism and conservation sector, combining accredited training with hands-on exposure at Bontebok National Park.
If you are passionate about nature, wildlife, and tourism — and want to build a long-term career in conservation — this programme is an ideal entry point.
Programme Overview
- Programme Name: Field Guiding Skills Programme
- Organisation: SANParks & CATHSSETA
- Location: Bontebok National Park, Western Cape
- Contract Duration: 18 months
- 6 months training
- 12 months workplace placement
- Number of Opportunities: 2
- Monthly Stipend:
- R2 695 (first 6 months – training phase)
- R3 500 (remaining 12 months – placement phase)
- Closing Date: 24 December 2025
- Age Limit: Under 35 years
- Minimum Qualification: Grade 12
- Application Method: Online application and email submission
What You Will Learn During the Programme
Participants will receive structured theoretical training combined with practical on-site experience in a national park environment.
Key Learning Areas Include:
- Introduction to field guiding principles
- Wildlife identification (flora and fauna)
- Conservation ethics and environmental awareness
- Visitor interaction and guiding techniques
- Safety procedures in protected areas
- Professional conduct within national parks
Training Structure:
- First 6 months: Skills training with a stipend of R2 695 per month
- Following 12 months: Fixed-term placement with a stipend of R3 500 per month
SANParks will cover training-related travel and accommodation costs when learners attend training away from their home area.
Who Can Apply?
To be considered, applicants must meet ALL the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be under 35 years of age
- 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 previously benefited from SANParks skills programmes, learnerships, or internships
This programme prioritises first-time beneficiaries to ensure fair access to opportunities.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit all of the following documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of Grade 12 certificate
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic transcripts (if applicable)
- Proof of residence
⚠️ Applications missing any required documents will not be considered.
How to Apply
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Click here to apply for the SANParks & CATHSSETA Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026
https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=7m41UWgOJEer4U9EDLMxFNx7WaB3z5VFtQ5rGwtp_TFUN0hUMlZDWTNBQlJBWFpXMjZYTjZSNEJUSiQlQCN0PWcu&route=shorturl
Step 2: Email Your Supporting Documents
Email all required documents to:
ANP.vacancies@sanparks.org
Email subject line / reference: FGTMNP_12/2025
Step 3: Await Feedback
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- If no response is received within 14 days after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful
Enquiries: Mmaphiri Shiko – 072 655 6326
Career Opportunities After Completion
This programme creates strong career pathways within conservation and tourism, including:
- Field Guide (entry-level)
- Nature Conservation Assistant
- Eco-Tourism Assistant
- Lodge or Reserve Guide
- Tourism & Hospitality roles within SANParks
- Employment at private game reserves and lodges
Many past participants go on to:
- Register with FGASA
- Study Nature Conservation diplomas
- Build sustainable careers in the conservation sector
Why CATHSSETA Is Important
CATHSSETA ensures that:
- Training is industry-recognised and relevant
- Skills align with labour market needs
- Learners gain transferable, accredited experience
This significantly improves employability after programme completion.
Closing Date
24 December 2025
Late applications will not be accepted.