Two Oceans Aquarium volunteer applications open

Applications are open for the public who have an interest in ocean conservation to volunteer at the Two Oceans Aquarium.

The closing date is Friday September 23.

People who want to volunteer don’t need any prior experience or qualifications.

It is an ideal opportunity for those who may want a taste of marine science for future job prospects, or who already have a career in an unrelated field and simply want a hobby that keeps them in touch with the ocean.

Prospective volunteers have to complete a qualifying course before being able to volunteer at the aquarium.

The course starts on Saturday October 15 and prospective volunteers need to attend a minimum of six sessions.

The course will run on Saturdays on October 15, 22, 29, and on November 5, 12, 19, 26 from 9am to 2pm.

It costs R400, and R200 for registered students and pensioners.

The volunteer induction course takes place under the care of marine sciences educators of the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation, and consists primarily of self-study content, and in-person practical sessions at the aquarium, as well as assessments.

Volunteers will learn about the life on South Africa's shorelines, the differences in life between the two oceans, and the seaweeds and invertebrates that live around the Cape Peninsula.

Once the course is completed and all the assessments passed, volunteers will be able to start working on the floor at the aquarium.

Each new volunteer must begin as a front-of-house volunteer for a prescribed number of shifts, and to meet a minimum level of commitment, before being allowed to assist in other roles behind-the-scenes.

For more information, email volunteer@aquarium.co.za