Thinking of becoming a Beekeeper?
For many people, learning about bees and beekeeping is captivating and leads to a life-long obsession. You have been warned! However, there is much for a beginner to learn and understand and practical experience in dealing with bees is essential. We strongly recommend that you do not obtain your own bees or equipment until you have learned enough from a beginner’s course (with us or another beekeeping association) that covers both theory and practice. It really is best for both you and the bees to have some sound knowledge and practical experience first. Practical experience is best gained by working with experienced beekeepers through a full beekeeping season (starting in spring and ending in autumn).
Is beekeeping for you?
Some people start beekeeping without realising what it involves. Knowledge, experience and hard work all play a part! Check out our “Is Beekeeping for You?” page.
Beginner Training Courses for 2026
Our courses are suitable for beginners and new beekeepers and comprise classroom based training on the theory of honey bees and beekeeping followed by practical sessions through the beekeeping season at one of our training apiaries.
- Luton Course: A series of 6 classroom based sessions was held at the Discovery Centre, Stockwood Park in January and February. Our next in-person course will be in early spring 2027
- Bedford Course: A series of 6 classroom based sessions was held at Moggerhanger Village Hall in February and March. Our next in-person course will be held in early spring 2027.
These courses cover basic theory and handling of bees and are delivered by experienced beekeepers. Once the weather improves, we move outside to our training apiary (Luton or Bedford as appropriate) for practical experience throughout the spring and summer. The practical sessions are held on Sunday mornings (weather permitting). The course fee (£120) includes all classroom/online and practical sessions as well as full membership of Bedfordshire Beekeepers Association until the end of 2026.
- Online Course: We will soon be offering our online course for those who were unable to join an in-person course. Details will be posted here around end March/early April.
The online course covers basic theory and handling of bees and comprises 8 recordings , each of approximately 1.5 hours duration, delivered by experienced beekeepers for a previous beginners training course. The course fee is £120 and includes access to the training, additional handout material and full membership of Bedfordshire Beekeepers Association until 31st December 2026.
Please note that anyone under the age of 18 will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult (please ask for details before joining the course).
Joining our “Introduction to Beekeeping” Course
Our Luton course has now finished.
Our Bedford course has now commenced and is no longer open to subscribers.
Our Online Course will be offered around end March/early April.
If you require more information, please contact-us.