After completing our Beginners Course, you can take the next step towards becoming a beekeeper by joining our Hives for All scheme. Designed exclusively for novice beekeepers who have never kept bees before, the programme provides the opportunity to gain practical experience managing a live colony under expert guidance. Places are limited, and a £150 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place. Our T&Cs apply.
In your first year we provide a mentor, a colony of bees and a space at one of our teaching apiaries. At the end of the season you can choose to purchase the bees and the hive and continue beekeeping at the teaching apiary for a further two years. Your mentor & other experienced beekeepers will always be available to offer advice and support. Alternatively, you can leave the programme having gained valuable hands-on experience and practical beekeeping knowledge with your only costs being the initial deposit, association membership, and perhaps a few bee stings along the way.
The scheme is open to those who have completed our Beginners Course, which we strongly recommend for anyone considering taking up beekeeping. The course is held at the beginning of the year, with the Hives for All programme starting shortly afterwards.
To take part, you will need a beekeeping suit, boots (wellington boots are recommended), gloves (washing-up gloves worn beneath nitrile gloves are perfectly adequate), some basic tools required for beekeeping, and most importantly a commitment to attend the apiary regularly on Saturdays throughout the summer.
