Education & Courses
CBKA is actively involved in educational projects across the county, teaching the craft of beekeeping and about the issues surrounding the plight of bees.With a renewed public interest in the environment in general, and beekeeping in particular, we continue to encourage people, especially younger people, to get involved and gain a good grounding in beekeeping skills by sharing our experience, so as to ensure a healthy future for bees and beekeeping.
We are able to come and give talks to schools and other groups – please get in touch with us at cbka.schools@gmail.com to find out how we can tailor a talk or display to your requirements.
Our members and local colleges also offer a number of courses aimed at new and improving beekeepers, which are listed below (the CBKA does not endorse any particular courses).
Beekeeping for Beginners
A 3 day course in beekeeping for beginners and novices
Date: 2025 dates and cost to be confirmed
Cost: £
Please contact us at info@tamargrowlocal.org or 01579 208412 for further details and to register your interest www.tamargrowlocal.org
This course is made up of a combination of classroom studies and practical work in the 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 participants should have the confidence to manage their own bees throughout the year.
Topics will include: the bee colony; hive types; equipment; setting up an apiary; the beekeeping year; swarming; pests and diseases; hive products and of course, the practical handling of bees. Bee suits will be provided, but participants should be sure to bring suitable footwear such as Wellingtons or other boots. Gloves will also be provided but if participants want to provide their own, then Marigold type gloves are
recommended.
Your course includes a 1 year membership to Tamar Valley Honey Co-op and a £10 voucher which can be redeemed against jars or sundries.
BIBBA webinars for potential beekeepers
“Beekeeping. What’s it all About?”
A one hour presentation that gives the absolute basic information to help potential beekeepers decide if they should go further. Topics covered include:- Time needed, costs, suitable site, sound information sources, etc.
The webinar recording is now available at https://bibba.com/webinars (under the Recordings section). You can also see news items listed here.
The Cornish Black Bees Company
Beginner’s Basics course – This day is aimed at those who are about to start beekeeping.
The aim is to provide clear information to assist potential beekeepers in making the right decisions. As well as the opportunity for hands on experience, topics discussed will include:
– Types of beekeeper, hives and strain of bee.
– Honey bee lifecycles and roles.
– Bee health and threats.
– Beekeeping requirements and responsibilities.
– Start up considerations, including essential equipment, timing, where to find help, costs and the issues with second hand equipment.
– Next steps.
Please visit cornishblackbee.co.uk for booking information.
