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Beekeeping Courses
Presented by an Experienced Team from

Wimbledon Beekeepers

What past attendees have said:

"The course was excellent value for money. I really appreciate the time and effort put in by the trainers. I cannot praise them too highly"

"The course was well structured, well delivered and well humoured, all in all I really enjoyed it"

"An excellent course, provided by experienced, knowledgeable and friendly teachers. Thank you so much."

Over the last 18 years a number of new members have taken up the craft after attending our very popular courses.

They are designed for both those who are interested in starting beekeeping and those who just wish to know more about bees.

Beekeeping Taster Days

Saturday June 15th 2024 (FULL)

Saturday July 20th 2024 (FILLING)

10:30am - 2:00pm (approx.)

Cost £60.00*

(please use the application form below)

*includes a jar of Wimbledon Beekeepers' Association honey

What goes on in the mysterious world of the beehive?

With guidance and demonstrators from Wimbledon Beekeepers' Association's beekeepers, you will have the opportunity to take a look inside a hive and discover the fascinating craft of beekeeping.

The session will consist of a practical introduction to the world of the honey bee and experience some of the various tasks a beginner will have to master. You'll be able to see inside a hive, hold a frame with honey bees on it and get to know if beekeeping is something for you.

Some of the basic beekeeping skills you will learn are:

Examine hive parts and how they all go together
An introduction to some of the equipment beekeepers use
Wearing a beesuit, using a smoker and the hive tool
Help opening a hive and remove frames for inspection
Look and identify the different castes of bee i.e. queen, workers and drones
Find the queen (hopefully) and recognise the difference between honey stores & brood
Understand about the management of diseases and pests of the honey bee

***A full beesuit and disposable gloves will be provided but please wear stout shoes or wellington boots***

Please note: In case of inclement weather, we reserve the right to postpone for the bees' protection

Beekeeping for Beginners 2024

Course Full!

A 10-week course offering an insight into honey bees, their life cycle and their place in the environment.

Also, hands on experience and knowledge of hive products.

We will provide you with a folder, notebook, pen, text book, along with course notes.

Refreshments will be available throughout the course.

Theory Sessions 7:30pm

Monday 26th February Introduction & Biology

Monday 4th March Association evening

Monday 11th March Equipment & Tools

Monday 18th March Disease & Hygiene

Monday 25th March Colony Management

Monday 1st April Easter Monday (no course)

Monday 8th April Association evening

Monday 15th April Swarm Prevention

Monday 22nd April Recapping – Planning Apiary Visit

Practical Sessions 10:30am

Sunday 28th April Apiary practical

Sunday 5th May Apiary practical

Sunday 12th May Apiary practical

Sunday 19th May Apiary practical

Cost £260.00