Early spring is when many of the branches affiliated to the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA) start to run beginner’s courses for new beekeepers looking to take their first steps.  If you are interested in taking up the fascinating hobby of beekeeping you will no doubt have lots of questions and we aim to provide some of the answers to help you find out exactly what might be involved.

Most branches also run ‘Taster Days’ which are ideal for gaining a basic understanding of what is involved in beekeeping.  These, together with 'Introduction to Beekeeping' courses, enable you to find out whether beekeeping is for you before making any further commitments. 

Keeping bees healthy and productive requires knowledge and skill. Beekeeping is made much easier by belonging to a local BBKA Association where you will be given advice, tuition and support.

Joining a group that is linked to the BBKA provides:

• Support, mentoring and practical teaching
• Training and education meetings
• Access to online Member Hub – beekeeping knowledge resources
• Online forum for beekeeping support
• Beekeeping examinations, from beginner to the highest level
• Annual Spring Convention and Exhibition with a full range of lectures and seminars
• Webshop with educational books and resources
• £10m third party public & product liability insurance
• Monthly membership magazine, BBKA News, posted to you
• Monthly member magazine: BBKA News.  Online magazine archive which is fully searchable
  
  

Background information:
BBKA:  Getting Started with Beekeeping
NBU: Advice for starting beekeeping

Finding a local group near you:
BBKA:  Find Beekeeping Near You
Become a Member of the BBKA

Beginners Guide to Beekeeping:
BBKA Guide to Beekeeping:  2nd Edition

Photo credit:  Ian Campbell