2024 BEEKEEPING BEGINNERS’ COURSE
Run by the Exmoor Division of the Somerset Beekeepers’ Association and taught by experienced beekeepers.
- 7 weekly theory classes run in the evening in Feb and March in Minehead.
- 4 Practical classes under supervision/mentoring, then the opportunity to attend our Teaching Apiary throughout the 2024 season.
1. Theory Classes
When?
Starting Thursday 8th Feb 2024 7-9pm, continuing for 7 weeks until 21st March 2024.
Where?
Quaker Meeting House, Minehead
Subjects?
- Thu 8th Feb 2024 - i) introduction to bees and beekeeping, ii) the honeybee colony
- Thu 15th Feb 2024 - iii) nests, hives and frames (including a frame-making practical)
- Thu 22nd Feb 2024 - iv) history of bees and beekeeping, v) the beekeeping year and apiary layout
- Thu 29th Feb 2024 - vi) queens, vii) swarms
- Thu 7th Mar 2024 - viii) honeybee pests and diseases
- Thu 14th Mar 2024 - ix) forage plants, x) products of the hive
- Thu 21st Mar 2024 - xi) getting started with beekeeping, xii) Quiz!
2. Practical Classes
Practical classes take place at the Exmoor Divisional apiary at Rowe Farm (between Dunster and Minehead). They are scheduled to take place on four successive Saturdays, weather permitting, starting at 2pm and ending roughly 2 hours later. The first likely date will be mid- to late April.
There is no need to buy any equipment before undertaking the course; indeed, we don’t recommend it. The course is your chance to decide if beekeeping is something you want to pursue.
For the practical sessions, we will lend you a full bee-suit. We will do our best to address many of the questions prospective beekeepers have throughout the course and recommend some good books.
There is no need to buy any equipment before undertaking the course; indeed, we don’t recommend it. The course is your chance to decide if beekeeping is something you want to pursue.
For the practical sessions, we will lend you a full bee-suit. We will do our best to address many of the questions prospective beekeepers have throughout the course and recommend some good books.
Additional Information
We will have a small library of beekeeping books available which you may borrow but if you want to buy a good beginner’s book prior to the course we would recommend 'Bees at the Bottom of the Garden’ by Alan Campion.
Handouts will be provided but please remember to bring a pen and paper for note taking.
We will have a small library of beekeeping books available which you may borrow but if you want to buy a good beginner’s book prior to the course we would recommend 'Bees at the Bottom of the Garden’ by Alan Campion.
Handouts will be provided but please remember to bring a pen and paper for note taking.
Cost£80 which also includes 2024 Associate Membership of Exmoor Division & Somerset Beekeepers’ Association. |
More InfoFor further information, please contact Neil Wellum on 01278741663 or email: nwellum@btinternet.com |
