Ready to begin your beekeeping journey? The Wakefield & Pontefract Beekeepers Beginners Course is designed for anyone who wants to learn the art and science of beekeeping from scratch. Whether you’re fascinated by honey bees, looking for a new outdoor hobby, or dreaming of producing your own honey, our friendly and practical course will give you the knowledge and confidence you need.
What the Course Covers
Led by experienced, registered beekeepers, the course blends classroom learning with hands-on sessions at our Association Apiary. You’ll explore:
- The structure and behaviour of a honey bee colony
- Hive equipment and setup
- Managing colonies through the seasons
- Swarm control and biosecurity
- Honey extraction and hygiene
- Legal responsibilities and bee health awareness
Each topic builds a strong foundation for keeping your own bees responsibly and sustainably.
Course Format and Dates
The course typically runs in early spring, with a series of evening theory sessions followed by a session practical in the apiary.
- Theory sessions: held in our on-site classroom at our Association Apiary
- Practical sessions: at the Association Apiary
- Class size: small groups for personal guidance and safety
- Protective clothing: provided for all practical sessions
The course starts in the spring.
Who Can Join
You don’t need any prior experience – just enthusiasm and curiosity. Many of our members began with this course and now manage their own thriving colonies. The only requirement is a willingness to learn and a respect for the bees and those who work with them.
What You’ll Gain
- Essential knowledge and practical skills
- Supervised apiary experience
- Eligibility to join Wakefield Beekeepers Association as a full member
Learn the craft. Meet the bees. Join a community that supports you every step of the way.