So you want to be a beekeeper! ... with Dr. Daf, the bee doctor

About the Course

Introduction
There are many reasons why people want to start keeping bees. It may be an ambition that you have had for a long time and now you have the time and space to do something about it. Others want to do something positive about the decline in pollinators or they fancy the idea of producing honey and other hive products.

However, beekeeping is an activity that is not successfully learnt from books and the internet alone. A successful start to what may become a fulfilling, lifelong interest depends on acquiring skills and knowledge through practical and hands on experiences on a two-day practical course like this one.

Our beginners' beekeeping course is Covid-19 compliant as we are able to maintain social distancing; most of the activities take place outdoors; numbers attending are limited to you, or you and your spouse, partner or family. Furthermore, rest assured that the protective bee suits issued to you are thoroughly laundered between each use.

Course organisation
Two days are required to deliver the basic training through practical activities. The first day of training is held all year round regardless of the weather on dates that suit you, as we have suitable covered outdoor sheltered areas. The second day is delivered between April and September to allow close inspection of the bees in their hives. Between April and September, the two days can be delivered on consecutive days if you wish. When you book this course, you will need to specify the date of the first day. The date of the second day can be arranged later.

Course content
You will be mentored through the following topics, which are essential for the success and enjoyment of your first year of beekeeping:-
Why keep bees?
Honey bee biology
How honey bees live in the wild
Stings and swarming
The beekeeper's year
Catching swarms and acquiring bees
Beekeeping survival skills
During practical sessions you will learn about:-
Beekeeping equipment
Components of the National hive
Setting up an apiary
Lighting and using a smoker
Protective clothing
Inspecting a hive
Identifying workers, drones and queen
Observing eggs and brood stages
Recognising pollen and honey

If you will be redeeming a CraftCourses gift voucher on this course, the voucher code must be provided at the point of booking.

What's included in the price?

The course fee includes access to course notes and further reading material via dropbox and tea and coffee during the day.

Bed and Breakfast, shepherd's hut glamping and nearly-wild camping may be available - please enquire.

This is a bespoke course and held on a 1:1 basis or for up to four individuals from the same household or friendship group.

I can also deliver this course bilingually or entirely through the medium of Welsh.

Contact