Training is an extremely important function of Savannah Guides. The core principle of training is for members to achieve and maintain a high level of competence in knowledge and interpretation that is generally consistent throughout the network.

The importance of training to Savannah Guides Limited is supported by the company's By-Laws, which state that a member is only exempted from any element of the company's training program at the discretion of the Training Subcommittee, and only in extraordinary circumstances.

Methodology

Peer group assessment underpins Savannah Guides training methodology. To make this assessment process more effective, a number of Savannah Guides members have completed the Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training course (National Code BSZ40198).

Guide Selection

However, the most significant factor contributing to the high standard of guiding is the effectiveness of guide selection. Careful selection has generally ensured the individuals entering the Savannah Guide network have had essential communication skills, a reasonable knowledge of technical matters and a strong commitment to Savannah Guides philosophy.

The natural ability of the individual guides has been a critical factor with much of the learning process involving experienced guides acting as mentors and instilling an ethos of self-learning, self-improvement and a strong desire to elevate the profession of guides.

Training activities undertaken by Savannah Guides include:

Savannah Guides Schools

At least three Savannah Guides Schools are held each year at varying locations across the savannahs, featuring experts in fields including, but not limted to, ecology, geology, land management and tourism.

Heritage and Interpretive Tourism TAFE program

Savannah Guides has been instrumental in developing and delivering this award winning tour guide training course. Several HIT modules form benchmarks for Savannah Guide membership.

Peer Network

Peer support, assessment and mentoring are important features in the internal training culture of Savannah Guides. Ongoing contact with other guides and enterprises provides training environments at Savannah Guides Schools, familiarisation tours, locum employment and social visits.

Workplace Assessment

Several Savannah Guides members are accredited workplace trainers and assessors, offering access to formal qualifications for members and applicants at their member enterprises and externally by contracted arrangement.

Professional Culture

The corporate culture of Savannah Guides continually develops individual and enterprise members through training access, accreditation processes, Code of Conduct adherence and network support. The standards set by Savannah Guides embody a high level of professionalism and training participation.