Field Ranger

The purpose of this part-qualification is to prepare a learner to function as a Field Ranger. A Field Ranger supports and assists the Reserve managers/ Section Ranger in protecting the integrity of the area in line with the legislation, management plans, rules and guidelines through patrolling. Typical graduate attributes will include among others leadership, discipline, compassion and dedication. A qualified learner will be able to: • Perform field operations. • Track quarry to protect biodiversity.

Since 2008 there has been a huge increase in rhino, elephant and other key animal species poaching in Southern Africa, in which 93% of the remaining rhino in the world occurs in South Africa. Poaching is taking place at an alarming rate of 1000+ of the key species per year and threatens their existence. During the African Wilderness Foundation (AWF) emergency Rhino Summit in Kenya for African Countries in April 2012 and the 1st National Rhino Conservation Dialogue held by the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA) in May 2012, the primary objective to ensure the survival of these species emerged with the theme: 'Boots on the Ground' - an increase in the deployment of well trained and equipped Anti-Poaching Rangers. Currently there is a limited number of new generations of Anti-Poaching Rangers to fulfil the huge demand in National Parks, Provincial Parks and Protected Areas, Private Nature Reserves and Wildlife Ranches. The 'Conservation / Anti-Poaching Ranger Career Path' initiative will utilise models with new processes and approaches to capacitate a new generation of Rangers with theory, skills and practical experience to address this challenge to save our biodiversity and wildlife heritage for future generations. Entry into this specific occupation and specialisation will allow for career progression towards Anti-Poaching Ranger and ultimately Park Ranger. Qualifying learners may be able to gain employment in National Parks, Provincial Parks, Protected Areas, Private Nature Reserves, Wildlife Ranches, Anti-Poaching Units as well as Specialised Wildlife Security Providers. Qualifying learners are capable of using a series of legal, security, technological and environmental skills to protect biodiversity and wildlife. This will position a qualified learner to fulfil the mission of creating a safe and secure environment for all wildlife in South Africa and range states.

• Gather and interpret information to perform field operations to protect biodiversity.
• Apply methods, procedures and techniques to identify and track quarry to maintain biodiversity conservation and protection according to the standard procedure.