Introduction to Beekeeping
Each year the association runs an introductory course for new beekeepers. The course should be booked in advance via the association training team - contact begin@ludlowbeekeepers.org.uk, numbers are limited so book early. In 2011 we have used the knowledge and experience from previous courses to redevelop the beginners' training providing a more comprehensive course.
The course is run in three parts 1.Intro Day, 2.Practical Training and 3.End of Year Theory Day.
1.Intro Day
Full day session for up to 40 people arranged annually in March/April. (We recommend that people wishing to start beekeeping attend one of our Taster Sessions before committing to this course)
The beginner's Intro day is designed to give the new beekeeper a flavour of the subject by introducing some of the main topics:
- The honeybee colony
- The Hive - includes hands on session with demonstration hives (without the bees)
- The beekeeping year
- Getting Started
The new beekeeper will quickly learn that there are different methods of achieving the same outcome and so the course focuses on introducing the core elements of beekeeping. Technique and method will come through practical experience combined with your further reading and development. We do not cover the complete topic (that would take years!) but give you enough knowledge and understanding to get started on the practical side of beekeeping.
2.Practical Apiary Sessions
We start with an initial half day apiary session to show you a hive inspection and reinforce the topics covered on the Intro Day. The demonstration aims to show the course members manipulation of the hive and the key points to be observed during an inspection such as the stages of brood development. You'll also get to see worker bees, drones and the queen if you are lucky! The demonstrator will also give you advice on apiary hygiene.
After the initial session, weekly sessions will be run in a member's apiary, based around the same hive(s) each week so the beginner sees the progression of the hive, and the work required, through the beekeeping year. Through the year the beginners take greater responsibility for the training hive(s) and develop their practical knowledge and skills. This is an excellent opportunity for the beginner to build their confidence and ability under the supervision of an experienced beekeeper. In addition, it also enables the beginner to learn more before purchasing their own bees. Your fellow trainees will become your training buddies and gives you a network of like-minded beekeepers with a similar level of experience.
3.End of Year Theory Day
The emphasis of the day is to consolidate the knowledge built up over the first year and prepare the beekeepers for their second year. This will be a one-day session to cover additional theory not previously covered. It provides an opportunity for discussion, questions and a recap of material covered during the Intro Day and the Practical Apiary Sessions. Following the theory day you will be able to plan their next year's activities.
