Beekeeping for beginners and novices

Tamar grow local is working with Jo Widdecombe, our local seasonal bee inspector and Cornwall Honey to provide practical beekeeping courses for beginners and novices at our training apiary in Drakewalls near Gunnislake.

Next course dates - 14th, 21st and 18th April

The course is a combination of classroom studies and practical work in the training apiary. The aim is to provide the student with the theoretical knowledge and the practical skills to handle a colony of bees. On completion of the course the student should have the confidence to manage their own bees throughout the year. Topics include: the bee colony; hive types; equipment; setting up an apiary; the beekeeping year; swarming; pests and diseases; hive products and the practical handling of bees.

Each course lasts for three days, with each day at fortnightly intervals. Courses begin at the Tamar Valley Centre in Drakewalls, and move on to the Tamar Grow Local training apiary (3 minutes walk away) The course will run from 10am – 4pm over three Saturdays.

Cost: £75 for a three-day course.

Participants should bring packed lunches. Tea and coffee will be provided. Protective clothing (bee suits) will be available but participants should be sure to bring suitable footwear such as Wellingtons or other boots and gloves.

To register your interest or book a place on the next course please click here to send us an email