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 will be held at the Discovery Centre, Stockwood Park from 10.30am to 12.30pm on Sunday mornings commencing on 11th January and running weekly until 15th February.
- Bedford Course: A series of 6 classroom based sessions will be held at Moggerhanger Village Hall from 7.30pm until 10pm (a break for coffee/tea is included) on the following Wednesdays – 11th, 18th, 25th February, 11th, 18th March (note not consecutive weeks) with the final session on Friday 27th March (dictated by venue availability).
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 and practical sessions as well as full membership of Bedfordshire Beekeepers Association until the end of 2026.
Joining our “Introduction to Beekeeping” Course
To join the Luton course, use this link
To join the Bedford course, use this link.
If you require more information, please contact-us.