SANParks Field Guiding Skills Programme 2026
An 18-month paid skills programme run by SANParks in partnership with CATHSSETA, training unemployed youth (under 35) with no prior experience as qualified field guides in national parks.
Apply for the SANParks Field Guiding Skills Programme
Provider: South African National Parks (SANParks) • Western Cape & Kruger
Program Overview
Program Details
Key Benefits
- ✓NQF Level 3 accredited qualification
- ✓Real workplace experience with a recognised employer
- ✓Stipend: CATHSSETA-funded monthly stipend (approx. R2,695 during training, rising to R3,500 during workplace placement)
- ✓Mentorship and structured on-the-job training
- ✓Strong pathway toward permanent employment
Entry Requirements
- ✓South African citizen, unemployed, aged under 35
- ✓Grade 12 / Matric (certified copy); no prior guiding experience required
- ✓Must reside within roughly 40-100 km of the host park (Bontebok)
- ✓Must not have previously benefited from a SANParks skills programme/learnership/internship
- ✓Clear criminal record and physically fit; supporting docs: CV, certified ID, Matric certificate, proof of residence
Career Opportunities
On successful completion, learners can pursue roles such as:
How to Apply
Check the requirements
Confirm you meet every entry requirement before you apply.
Prepare your documents
Certified ID, matric certificate / qualifications, CV and any supporting documents.
Apply online
Submit your application via the official South African National Parks (SANParks) careers portal.
Assessments & interview
Shortlisted candidates complete assessments and interviews.
Placement
Successful learners sign a learnership agreement and begin the programme.
⚠️ Good to Know
STATUS: Recurring annual programme. SANParks/CATHSSETA ran multiple Field Guiding Skills Programme intakes for the 2026 cycle across several parks: Bontebok National Park (Western Cape, closed 24 Dec 2025), Addo Elephant National Park (Eastern Cape, closed 2 Feb 2026, MyJobMag shows it expired), and Kruger National…
• Only shortlisted candidates are typically contacted — check the official portal for the latest intake dates.
• Learnerships are aimed at unemployed South African youth; preference is often given to candidates from designated groups.
• Beware of scams — GoCareers never charges for applications, and neither do legitimate employers.
Ready to apply?
Head to the official South African National Parks (SANParks) careers portal to submit your application.
Apply for the SANParks Field Guiding Skills Programme →