Beekeepers

Welcome to the 'Beekeepers' area which contains restricted content specifically for our beekeeping community.
Here you will find a wide range of resources and information to support existing BBKA members and Associations.
Select from the additional menu bar above the banner image.

If you aren't already a BBKA member then you can explore your options to 'Become a Member'

Basic Assessment

To take the Basic Assessment you should have managed at least one colony of bees for a minimum of 12 months

The Basic Assessment syllabus can appear daunting at first glance but closer inspection will show that it merely lists the basic things which all beekeepers should know.

Basic Syllabus 2024

Application

To apply for the assessment, please contact your local Exam Secretary. They will be able to email you a link to the application form. You can use this to apply and pay online. You will get a receipt by email to confirm we have your application. If you are not sure how to contact your local exam secretary then check with your local association. Independent members can contact the BBKA office to receive their application link form by email.

Your local Exam Secretary will contact you with the assessment details.

Reading list for the Basic Assessment

Latest

BBKA Zoom Talks

Next talk: 'Beekeepers' Question Time' Tuesday 17th September 2024
September

September is a turning point. It’s a time to slow down after a busy season and an opportunity to take stock and make those final winter preparations. By next month nature is largely in the driving seat!
Nigella’s Honeyed Tarte Tatin

"My Honeyed Tarte Tartin celebrates the gloriousness of British honey"; Nigella Lawson
Margaret Johnson

One of the founder members of Meridian Beekeepers' Association along with her husband Alan.

Find Beekeeping Near You

Please use our BBKA map to find branches and members who can help you on your way to becoming a beekeeper.
Swarm Collection

Beekeepers are often approached about winged, flying creatures, especially in the spring and summer period, when they are their most active simply working and are no cause for alarm. We can only help if they are honeybees.
Find a local Swarm Collector

If the bees have been identified as honey bees you can enter your postcode to find our nearest volunteer swarm collectors.
Honeybee Swarms

Further information about honey bee swarms together with photos of beautiful honey bees in swarms. It is hoped this page will help members of the public recognise honey bee swarms and then use our swarm map to find a beekeeper to collect the honey bees!
What bee is this?

What bee is this? Pictures of the bumblebees and solitary bees often mistaken for honeybees. Easy ways to identify them.
Learn the craft of beekeeping

Find your local BBKA branch.
Log in information
Identify & Report Asian Hornet

How to identify if the insect in front of you is an Asian Hornet together with details of how to report any potential sightings. Also, further information about how to monitor for Asian Hornet activity in your area.
Site search

Site search using a Google Custom Search Engine
How many eyes does a bee have?