Please note: – the 2023 Beginner Beekeeping course is now FULLY BOOKED. Please use the contact form at the bottom to register interest.

Beginner Beekeeping Course with HRBKA

Our 3 term Beginner Beekeeping courses begin in January or February each year. Classes are held on Monday evenings in Harrogate and at apiaries around the district. This course has been developed for complete beginners but it is also useful for beekeepers who want to improve their knowledge or who need a refresher course. All of our courses are taught by experienced members of the Harrogate & Ripon Beekeepers Association.

Successful completion of the course will provide all the skills and knowledge you need to take the Basic Assessment of the BBKA in your second season and the cost of taking this assessment is included in the course fee.

2023 Beginner Beekeeping Course

Term 1 – Starting TBC and continuing on alternate Mondays. (6 lectures plus a practical hive building session.)

These classroom-based sessions cover all you need to know to keep bees safely and well in your first year. Topics include Choosing an Apiary Site; Equipment; Natural History and Anatomy of Honey bees. You will also learn to keep accurate records and recognise potential pests and diseases.

The half day practical hive-building session covers the assembly of flat-pack hive components.

Term 2 – starting late May/early June 2023 (8 practical sessions on a weekly basis)

This second term provides tuition in practical bee-handling skills and is designed to help you handle bees safely, and to keep them healthy. First, you will be taught how to inspect, handle and care for bees by an experienced beekeeper, using colonies belonging to HRBKA. Then you will be encouraged to practise and develop these skills yourself. Finally, at the end of this term you may have an opportunity to buy bees from the association, at which point you can transfer them to your own hive and take them home. (Subject to availability).

Review of Course 1st Season and Q&A session September 2023 (1 session) Date tbc

This is an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions and have them answered by the Course Tutors, in an informal and relaxed environment.

Term 3 – starting January 2024 and continuing on alternate Mondays.

After your first beekeeping season, six more classroom-based sessions are provided. They are structured to build upon Yr 1 lessons, and to reinforce what you’ve already learnt. These more advanced sessions increase your knowledge and experience, to help you manage the best possible start to your second season of beekeeping. Modules on ‘Honey’ and ‘Wax Processing’ are included, equipping you with the skills to harvest your honey crop. Understanding UK regulations for honey also enables you to process and present it well, for sale, show or gifts.

At the end of your third term you have the knowledge and experience necessary for you to take the British Beekeeping Association Basic Assessment.

Fees for the 2023 course are £TBC

For more information or to register your interest please use the form below