Beekeeper Training
Thinking of becoming a beekeeper but not sure where to start?
Our courses are aimed at the novice; someone whose become fascinated by these wonderful creatures and is now looking to take the next step in becoming a beekeeper. We’re here to guide and support you on your beekeeping journey.
Starting with taster sessions and introductory courses, then on to practical workshops, one to ones and mentoring; we’re here guide you through your first few years with your bees.
Online Beekeeping Basics Course
Discover the basics of beekeeping with this step-by-step online course for beginners: If you’re looking to test the waters before jumping into beekeeping, or want to get started but don’t know how, then this comprehensive online programme that will leave you feeling confident about starting on your beekeeping journey.
Totally online and available immediately, the five modules look at what it means to become a beekeeper. We explore the fascinating world of honey bees, learn about their lifecycle and communication, and discover the equipment needed to get started.
We love hearing from our students and are always grateful for their feedback. One of our recent students had this to say about our online course -
“Today I enjoyed your online beekeeping course. Your passion and enthusiasm for the wonderful little creatures really does shine through.”
Click the button below to get started today.
Beekeeping Taster Session
Delve into the captivating world of beekeeping with our taster session, crafted for those looking to take their first steps to becoming a hobby beekeeper.
This approximately four hour session seamlessly combines theory and hands-on learning, offering an ideal starting point for anyone looking to discover more of the practical details about getting started. From discovering the essential tools used and understanding the different hive types, to witnessing the awe-inspiring honey bee life cycle whilst we carry out hive inspections and uncover the secrets of a thriving apiary set up.
Scheduled dates for the beekeeping taster session are :
Saturday 18th May 2024 @ 9.30am
Friday 14th June 2024 @ 9.30am
Friday 26th July 2024 @ 9.30am
Beekeeping Introduction Course
The perfect start to a beekeeping hobby. This one-day introduction takes you into the beekeeping world providing and overview of the life of a bee and the beekeeper’s involvement.
What to expect:
This introductory day runs from 9.30am-4pm and is a classroom based introduction to beekeeping which will leave you with a clearer understanding of what being a beekeeper involves. It is aimed at the novice or someone that is new to keeping bees but hasn’t completed a course and is looking for wider knowledge. The course is supported with real life examples and video content, we will discuss:
Bees and honey bees – a look at bees in general with a specific view of the honey bee and their life cycle as well as gaining an understanding of what goes on within the hive.
How and where to start – what equipment do you need, how much time will it take, different styles of beekeeping, hive types and number of hives.
The beekeeping year – what does a beekeeper’s year look like; and how are the bees behaving as the seasons change.
Honey bee health – pests, diseases and general understanding into the health of a hive, best hygiene practices, and how best to care for your livestock.
Next Steps - helping you make your next steps to becoming a beekeeper.
Each date is limited to a small group of attendees aged 16+. Refreshments are provided but please bring your own lunch. Please note that the course takes place in our workshop so comfortable layered clothing is recommended.
This course does not include a visit to the bees but will set you up with the knowledge and lists of what to do next!
Scheduled dates for the introduction course are below:
All intro days start at 9.30am and finish around 4pm
2024
Saturday 14th September
Practical Lesson:
Hive Inspection
If you’ve completed one of our beekeeping introduction days, another beginners beekeeping course, or you’re feeling a little nervous around your bees; then our practical lesson may be helpful.
This lesson is purely focused on the hive inspection. We will begin with a discussion about what to look for at and in the hive, and the tools and equipment needed; we’ll then light the smoker and open some hives together.
The lesson will last for approximately 2 hours and will be limited in numbers to ensure plenty of time with the hives. Please note this is not a the same as a bee experience (which is intended as a taster) or a substitute for full training.
Lesson dates are:
2024
Saturday 8th June @ 3pm
Bespoke 1-2-1 Support
Beekeeping can be a rewarding and fascinating hobby but it can also be daunting for beginners. That’s why our one-to-one bespoke beekeeper support is tailored to your individual needs and experience. Whether you’re a complete novice or have some knowledge already we can help you gain confidence in handling your bees and understanding their behaviour.
Practical sessions can be held with your own bees; this can be especially helpful if you have specific questions or concerns about your colony’s health, behaviour or productivity. Alternatively they can take place in our training apiary. We’ll work with you to identify areas of improvement and give you practical advice for managing your bees.
For more information please visit the listing in our shop or contact us via email
Private training sessions start at £70.
Beginner Beekeeper Mentoring
Sometimes, when we start something new, we just need another pair of hands or eyes to help us.
Are you new to beekeeping and looking for some extra support as a "newbee"?
Let me help you navigate your first year as a beekeeper with confidence; join our mentor program and access hints, tips and exclusive videos to help guide you so you feel reassured and confident with your bees.
The package includes:
Seasonal check ins via email and/or text
Exclusive content and ‘how to’ guides, including video tutorials
2x 1 hour visits to your apiary if you live near our HQ (within 25 miles of NR35 2DQ) or 2x video calls with Head Beekeeper Stacy if not.
Hotline to Stacy for trouble shooting or support.
Click on the sign up button below to access this package and we’ll share the ups and downs of your first year with you. This package is best for those who’ve already undertaken an introductory course and so have a basic understanding of the goings on within the hive.
