Adults interested in volunteering at the Aquarium, this one is for you!
Volunteer course applications are open!
Do you love the ocean? Are you fascinated by the incredible world beneath the waves filled with colour, beauty and interesting animals? Now is your chance to dive into Cape Town’s underwater wonderland by becoming a volunteer at the Two Oceans Aquarium!
Our Adult Volunteer Course is now open for applications, and we’re looking for ocean-minded individuals who want to learn, share, and inspire others about the wonders of marine life. The course will take place every Saturday from the 11th of October till the 15th of November.
What is volunteering all about?
As a volunteer, you’ll help us connect visitors to the ocean and the incredible creatures that call it home. Through this programme, you’ll be introduced to the fascinating lives of marine animals such as sea stars, sea urchins, anemones, and the rich diversity of seaweeds that thrive along our shoreline.
Volunteering is more than just learning, it’s about sharing your knowledge. Once trained, you’ll play a vital role on the Aquarium floor, engaging with visitors and sparking curiosity about the ocean. Our volunteers are ambassadors for the sea, helping spread awareness and a love for our blue planet.
Who can apply?
Absolutely anyone who is over the age of 18! You don’t need prior experience or formal qualifications to take part in our volunteer course. All you need is passion for the ocean and a willingness to share it with others.
This opportunity is ideal if you want a taste of marine science as a possible career path, already have a job but are looking for a meaningful hobby that keeps you connected to the ocean, simply love the sea and want to give back by raising awareness. Whether you're a student, a working professional, looking to change to a career in the ocean, or retired; experienced or starting your ocean journey, all are welcome!
Course details
The volunteer course is run by the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s marine science educators. It is a 6-day course hosted at the Aquarium, combining theory with online notes to support your learning through hands-on practical sessions and weekly assessments.
Topics that will be learnt during the course explore the unique life found along South Africa’s rocky shores. They include learning about the differences between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans and how the merging of these two oceans creates the perfect environment for incredible diversity of seaweeds and invertebrates that thrive along the Cape Peninsula.
Your journey as a volunteer
Once you’ve completed the course and passed your assessments, you’ll begin your volunteer journey as a front-of-house volunteer, working directly with visitors. Each volunteer is asked to commit to at least 45 hours in this role before moving on to more specialised areas.
From there the opportunities open and if your passion lies in education, animal care, or the technical aspects of running one of Cape Town’s top attractions, you’ll find a place to make a difference.
Ready to join us?
By volunteering, you’ll not only gain knowledge and hands-on experience, but you’ll also join a community of like-minded ocean lovers making a positive impact.
For more information about the training course, email training@aquariumfoundation.org.za. Become an ocean ambassador, inspire others and protect our blue planet.
Related News
Sign up to our Newsletter
Receive monthly news, online courses and conservation programmes.