Principal Trainer

Principal Trainer

As a senior position, the Principal Trainer will form part of the College’s small yet dynamic leadership team. The Principal Trainer will be responsible for all training-related aspects of MORE Field Guide College, including the implementation and management of effective systems to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the training department.

Strong organisational and administrative skills are essential, as effective management of the department is a key component of the role. This includes the management of training schedules, reporting, operating equipment (OE), and all administrative duties relating to examinations, assessments, and the submission of assessment results and associated documentation.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience as a Field Guide within a five-star environment, coupled with proven training experience and relevant FGASA-aligned qualifications, with a minimum qualification of Professional Trails Guide.

Being a recognised FGASA Mentor is essential, while being a FGASA and CATHSSETA Assessor will be highly beneficial.

Key focus Areas 

Training Leadership

• Lead the training team to deliver comprehensive, immersive, and engaging courses that prepare students for professional careers as Field Guides.

Curriculum Development

• Design and continuously improve training modules to meet FGASA standards and industry demands, ensuring that students gain relevant skills in:
• Nature guiding
• Advanced Rifle Handling
• Trails
• Wildlife tracking
• Hospitality
• Conservation

Instruction & Mentorship

• Deliver theoretical and practical training sessions, providing mentorship to both students and junior trainers.
• Promote continuous professional development within the training team.

Quality Assurance

• Monitor the quality of all training programmes, ensuring alignment with the College’s vision, mission, and FGASA guidelines.
• Conduct regular assessments and evaluations of training methods and outcomes.

Student Support

• Engage with students throughout their learning journey, providing guidance, feedback, and encouragement to enhance both their academic and practical performance.
• Identify learning challenges, particularly among sponsored students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, and adapt training approaches to accommodate individual learning needs and special requirements.

Administration

• Assist the Camp Manager in maintaining training schedules, student records, and reports.
• Manage the allocation of resources to ensure the effective delivery of the curriculum.
• Engage with external training providers and plan effectively for external courses, training programmes, and assessments.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Liaise with industry stakeholders, including FGASA, relevant governing bodies, game reserves, and conservation organisations, to remain up to date with policies and industry trends.
• Develop and maintain relationships that create opportunities for student placements, industry exposure, and strategic partnerships.

Health & Safety

• Ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff during all training activities, particularly during field exercises.
• Adhere to strict safety protocols, risk-management procedures, and emergency procedures.

Mentored Trails

• Conduct 5-day mentored Trails programmes for the College.

REQUIREMENTS, QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

Experience & Knowledge

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in field guiding, with at least 2 years in a senior training or mentoring role.
• In-depth understanding of South African wildlife, conservation practices, and eco-tourism operations.
• Proficient knowledge of FGASA standards, protocols, and curriculum requirements.
• A passion for wildlife conservation and education.
• Adaptability to diverse field conditions.
• A strong commitment to developing the next generation of professional Field Guides.

• FGASA Professional Trails Guide qualification.
• FGASA-endorsed Trails Mentor – essential.
• FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) – advantageous.
• ETDP Assessor – advantageous.
• ETDP Facilitator – advantageous.
• FGASA Advanced Rifle Handling Assessor – advantageous.
• Valid First Aid Level 2 certificate.
• All relevant rifle proficiencies and competencies.

Skills

• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage, educate, and inspire students.
• Strong leadership and team-management skills.
• Practical knowledge of:
• Bushcraft
• Survival
• Wildlife tracking
• 4x4 driving
• Strong organisational and administrative skills.
• Computer literate, with a strong working knowledge of the Microsoft Office Suite, including:
• Excel
• Teams
• Loop
• SharePoint