You will be inspecting hives by yourself by the end of the second day

So, You want to be a beekeeper!

Two full days are required to deliver the basic training. These can consecutive days or spread apart. Student numbers are limited to 4 so that you get bespoke individual attention, have ample opportunities to ask questions and reflect and progress quickly. Training sessions are held between April and the end of August and each day consists of a mix of practical and theoretical tasks. In addition to our dedicated training apiary, we also have hives under cover so that our training courses go ahead regardless of the weather. We expect that you will be competent at inspecting a hive yourself (under supervision, of course!) by the end of your second day. 


We advise that you do not acquire your bees or hives before attending your course. However we are happy to advise you on hives, suits and equipment in advance of the course and on where to pre-order superior locally reared bees.

Course content
Through presentations and practical activities you will be mentored through the following topics, which are essential for the success and enjoyment of your first year of beekeeping:-
  • Life-cycle and anatomy of honey bees
  • How a national hive is organised
  • Equipment and protective clothing
  • Establishing an apiary
  • Installing your new colony of bees 
  • Inspecting a hive
  • Managing your colony in its first year
  • Seasonal tasks, including swarm prevention, winter preparation and pest and disease management
  • Statutory requirements

Importance of swarm prevention and control

Many beekeepers accept swarming as an inevitable event. Sadly, it results in a significant loss of bees and impacts honey yield and may result in complete colony loss. Furthermore, the need to remove swarms from buildings may cause distress, inconvenience, structural work and cost to neighbours. On our courses we stress the importance of swarm control and share with you effective management practices that virtually eliminate the occurrence of swarming.

  • This is an all-weather event.
  • Cost, £190 per person, for the two-day course.
  • maximum 4 persons per course
  • we may be able to offer alternative dates to groups of 2 or more.
  • larger groups by arrangement
  •   10:00 - 16:30 
  • Use of protective clothing included.
  • Printed folder of notes to accompany the course and links to further reading available on request.
  • Complimentary visit to check your potential site.
  • Invitation to join private Whatspp group for on-going support.
  • Gift vouchers available for this course.

Beginner course dates in 2025


April - 5&6, 11&12, 19&20

May - 3&4, 14&15, 24&25

June - 31(May) &1(June), 11&12, 21&22

July - 12&13, 17&18

Aug - 14&15, 24&25

Sept - 4&5, 13&14

How to book

  1. Choose suitable dates.
  2. Check availability by clicking on this Availability Enquiry link.
  3. We will confirm availability or suggest alternative dates by email.
  4. A non-returnable deposit of £60 per person is required to secure a place on a course or experience.
  5. Payment can be made  by online banking to Starling Bank account No. 48221226, sort code 608371, Business account name Dafydd Jones. Please use your name as reference.
  6. Alternatively call 07816 188573 to pay by card.
  7. The balance of £130 per person can be paid by card on arrival.