Gain a Qualification in Biological Survey Techniques in Kenya

  Kenya

Rural

Term: Throughout the year 
Dates: Throughout the year.

Description: Studying has never been so much fun. GVI is pleased to offer you the chance of undertaking a reputable biological survey technique course whilst on a 5 or 10 week expedition in Kenya. This fantastic opportunity allows you to gain a Level 3 BTEC Advanced Certificate based near the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine National Park working with the Kenyan Wildlife Service and other local partners.

Give your resume a great boost, and gain credit towards a college course, with new and useful skills that will be transferable to any environment around the world. Upon completion of the BTEC course, you should feel confident enough to plan and run survey teams in the field. Target Species Identification, Survey Techniques, Managing Risk, Expedition Logistics and Community Relations are the five core units you will complete during your time in the rainforest.

Over a minimum of 5 weeks, volunteers can perfect their new found skills as a member of a research expedition team. The expedition looks at the biodiversity of the immediate region in Shimoni Archipelago, off the coast of the mainland Kenyan border with Tanzania. The focus is on four main elements: marine mammal research from survey vessels (specifically dolphins but including seasonal Humpback Whales,) combined with in-water snorkel surveys of turtles, primate research in the threatened coastal forest nearby, satellite camps on the borders of National Parks such as the world famous Tsavo National Park, and community development projects including sustainable tourism projects and teaching English.

Highlights: GVI is proud to offer a unique opportunity to gain a Level 3 BTEC Advanced Certificate recognised and approved by Edexcel, the UK's largest awarding body, this qualification can help you into University or give you the boost you may need for a career change.

This BTEC teaches you the ability to supervise biological surveys. Upon completion, you should feel confident enough to plan and run survey teams in the field. The basic skills you learn will be transferable to any environment around the world. During the course you will complete five core units that have been developed with GVI's extensive experience and skills base in the field. These are:

1. Target Species Identification - This unit will introduce the learner to the fundamental skills of identifying species and habitats. Bringing them to a level accurate enough to ensure reliable survey results.
2. Survey Techniques - During this unit the learner will build on their identification skills, putting them into practice in the field. They will learn to supervise surveys through briefings and debriefings and how to collect, collate and check date.
3. Managing Risk - This unit teaches the learner the fundamentals of risk management, emergency planning and health and safety, building on the first aid training all Expedition Members receive.
4. Expedition Logistics - The purpose of this unit is to train the learner in the practical and logistical aspects of managing a field based biological surveying operation.
5. Community Relations - This unit instills an understanding in the learner that successful long-term biological conservation is best achieved through the cooperation and support of local agencies and indigenous peoples.

Qualifications: No previous experience or foreign language skills are required, but expedition members must be able to work as part of a team, have a strong interest in wildlife and conservation, a sense of adventure, and be prepared to enjoy Africa the old fashioned way.   

Days are hot and dusty and expedition members can expect to experience all the adventures and rigors of Africa on a continuous basis. In addition all expedition members will have to complete a swim test on arrival at the expedition base (unaided 200m surface swim followed by a 10 min float in the open sea environment.) Participants must be enthusiastic, adventurous and respectful of their host country's culture and environment.

Cost in US$: $3690 - $5490

Experience Required: no

Typical Volunteer: There are no typical volunteers at GVI. But all have an open mind and dedication to the project.

Age Range: 18+

This Program is open to American, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and World Wide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals

Participants Travel to Kenya Independently Or in Groups

Typically Participants Work Independently Or in Groups of 24 max

Application Process Involves:

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Global Vision International's Mission Statement: 2008 marks a decade of commitment from GVI to all volunteers and partners. Global Vision International aims to promote the advancement of sustainable development through the creation of partnerships, promotion of local and global education, opportunities and via direct financial support. GVI remains committed to its local partners by ensuring they receive full credit for any research undertaken or achievements reached.

Year Founded: 1998