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Kendal and South Westmorland Beekeepers’ Association


Education and Courses

People looking at the observation hive

Beekeeping is not just an interesting hobby. Insect pollination of plants is vital for human and environmental survival. Honeybees are an important part of the pollinator population and many beekeepers feel it is important to offer information to schools and members of the public. Of course, lots of people are keen to buy honey and other hive products too.

Members of the K&SW BKA go into schools and take bees to young people’s groups and talk to members of other clubs and associations. We attend local shows such as the Lakeland Rose Show, Damson Day in the Lyth Valley, the County Fest and Beetham Nursery Apple Weekend and we usually take bees with us too, the observation hive always attracts lots of interest.


Schools

During summer 2010 we have been working in association with the Brewery Arts Centre on a science and arts project explaining the importance of pollinating insects in our lives and the environment. The BEE CREATIVE artwork was displayed in the Brewery Arts Centre, Kendal during September 2010.


Beekeeping Courses

During the spring and summer beekeeping courses are run at Brigsteer Bee Reserve, Near Kendal. Introducing Beekeeping Courses are designed to give enough information for people to discover exactly what beekeeping involves and/or learn enough to start keeping a couple of beehives. The course is intensive, runs from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon and includes both theory and practical work including inspecting a colony of bees.

Since 2011 a one day 'Intermediate Beekeeping' course has been available, aimed at beekeepers with 1 to 2 years experience. We also offer 'Meet the Bees' afternoons for those who want to know how a beehive works.

Education Officer Julia Hoggard

www.BeeEd.org.uk


Beekeeping Exams

We support members' learning through courses, mentoring, small tutorial groups and themed meetings. The society has relevant DVDs and information. The British Beekeepers Association supports diplomas and examinations in beekeeping, details are available at www.national-diploma-bees.org.uk.

Examinations Secretary Mick Gander

If you require any further details, please contact our Examinations Secretary.