Exam board statement about November Exams

'The global outbreak of COVID-19 has meant that we have had to limit socialising and gatherings, to help prevent the spread of this disease. Inevitably, this has had a huge impact on the BBKA exam system, that relies on candidates, assessors, and invigilators to meet in close proximity or travel some distance away from home.

 

Following the feedback from many associations and individuals on the matter, we have taken the difficult decision to cancel the BBKA assessments for the remaining part of 2020. These include Show Judge certificate in October as well as Module exams and Microscopy assessments in November.

 

The main concern of the Exam Board is the safety of all candidates, assessors and invigilators. While some associations have indicated that they may be able to facilitate the Module exams, others have advised against it. We want to offer equal opportunities to all members who wish to take the BBKA exams. With the current situation however, we do not feel this is achievable for all involved.

 

Candidates who have applied for assessments in 2020 will get free transfer for 2021, or get their fees refunded if they prefer. Due to the cancellations of the exams, the condition that candidates need to have taken all Modules within 12 years of the first module taken has now been removed.  

 

We know how much value beekeepers put on the BBKA exam system. To support those who continue on their learning journey, we are exploring alternative ways to hold the Module exams and hope to have solution in place for the early part of 2021.'


July 2020

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Monday March 23rd 2020

ALL EXAMS AND PRACTICALS CANCELLED - REVIEW IN SEPTEMBER

Update Coronavirus - Message from Val Francis Exam Secretary 

 

It is less than a week since my last notice but things have already moved on with more restrictions and requirements for social distancing and isolation.  Officials are now warning that periods of social distancing could be a feature of our lives for at least a year.  With so much uncertainty the Exam Board has decided to cancel all practical assessments until September.  This will apply to Advanced Husbandry, General Husbandry, Bee Breeding, Bee Health, Basic and Junior Certificates.  We will review the situation in September regarding the Microscopy Assessments.

 

Candidates who have applied already will receive a free transfer to next year or a refund if they prefer.

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URGENT UPDATE!!!!!! All exams for March 21st cancelled to help prevent the spread of coronavirus. Here is a statement from the Examinations Board: 

Yesterday, there was a new statement that escalated the precautions we need to take to limit the spread of the coronavius to a different level. Consequently, it is with great regret that the Examinations Board has decided that they must act within the Government Guidelines and cancel the Examinations on March 21st. 

We know how much work the candidates have put into the preparation for these exams and the decision has not been made lightly but we do not wish to put invigilators or candidates at risk for an activity which is not essential. 

The free transfer of fees and applications will extend to March 2021. 

Our written and practical examinations support our desire set high standards to educate our beekeepers. They are valuable to everyday beekeeping but also, they are key to learning all of the fascinating science you could think of about your bees and their lives.

Click below for links to the syllabi

Application form

For all assessments and exams use the above application form.