Beginner’s Beekeeping Course
A thorough and fun course covering all the aspects below. Ideal for all prospective new beekeepers.
- Natural history of honeybees.
- The functions of the queen bee, workers and drones in the life of the colony.
- The beekeeping year.
- Forage, hive products, beeswax and honey processing.
- Swarms and swarm control.
- Bee health and disease management.
- Economics of beekeeping, equipment required.
- Principal parts and functions of the hive.
- Considerations when setting up an apiary.
The theory is followed by hands on four practical sessions with the bees on Sundays at the Coppermill out apiary for all those taking the Beekeeping Course. For this you will need to purchase protective clothing (details will be given on the course).
The next course will be held in 2027 – provisionally starting 22nd February for the theory
There will be four evening theory sessions on Monday evenings from 19:30 to 21:30 at Ruislip High School, South Ruislip. Provisional dates for 2027 are 22nd February, 1st, 8th and 15th March.
The practicals will usually be on Sunday mornings at 10:00 at our apiary and consist of four sessions approximately fortnightly from April-June (weather dependent).
You will need to complete four practicals after the theory for the course certificate.
After the course, we encourage the new beekeepers to look after a club hive for the rest of the year. The following year they are able to have their own hive at the club apiary to be able to benefit from support and advice from experienced members, and we will assist in getting suitable bees.
Cost:- £TBA (was £130 in 2026) (Includes course materials, full PRBKA membership & BBKA registration for a year).
For further information contact membership@prbka.co.uk
We are currently compiling a list of those who are interested and who will be contacted around the end of the year for applications – please include your full name, address, telephone number and email address if you wish to be placed on the list.
You are also welcome to come to our clubhouse on a Sunday morning (11:00-12:45) and talk to us about beekeeping, learning etc. See our contact page for details.
BBKA Basic Course
For Beekeepers who have already taken the Beginners Course and have been keeping their own bees for a complete year or more. This is run when there is demand – enquire at the club or email membership@prbka.co.uk