Requirements and Training
Biological Survey Techniques BTEC Course in Ecuador

Skills Required

Expedition members must be aware that because of the remoteness of the expedition site, transport is by motorised dugout canoe. All volunteers must be strong swimmers, able to swim 300m. Knowing Spanish is not essential for this expedition but participants will benefit much more from the community interaction if they master some basic phrases. Why not book a couple of weeks of Spanish lessons through GVI before the start of the expedition?

All expedition members should be physically fit as the environment is demanding. You should also be enthusiastic, adventurous, have a good sense of humour and be able to stay self-motivated throughout the project. You will likely be a role model and provide a valuable cultural experience to the students with whom you work. Therefore personal comportment is extremely important. On arrival at the expedition site we will run through programme expectations and cultural sensitivities to which you must adhere and respect. You must understand that the expedition has specific long-term aims in conjunction with the Yachana community to which you will contribute by facilitating in a learning environment, collecting and analysing data and taking part in community projects. All expedition members must be team players and assist each other and the staff in the daily tasks.

Training and Qualifications

An 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.

Expedition members receive a continuous comprehensive training programme that encompasses theory lectures, group study and field practice. This provides a baseline and holistic understanding of all aspects of the rainforest, on which to build throughout your stay. Subjects included in the training are as follows: Conservation, Rainforest Ecology, Bird and Mammal Identification, Bird Call Identification, Amphibian and Reptile Studies, Teaching English as a Foreign Language and Emergency First Aid.