Beginners Beekeeper Course 2025

Course for Beginners 2025

The aim of this course is to train competent beekeepers following a well-tried and orthodox method of bee management and husbandry which provides good outcomes for bees and beekeepers. The course is comprised of 6 teaching sessions, with presentations and interaction with tutors, supported by a detailed 50+ page handout.

Four sessions will be in-person and two online: dates and details below.

In addition, we aim to offer a practical apiary session in the Spring, after completion of the course. For those who wish to start beekeeping in 2025 we will do our best to allocate mentors – experienced BBA members with whom to gain hands-on experience before buying a colony of bees.

We encourage sourcing bees locally and endeavour to provide bees for beginners who wish to buy them and are ready. These starter colonies are usually available from members from mid-June onwards.

Tutoring team:

Kate Atchley (lead tutor)

Julie McDiarmid

Lindsay Craig

Martin Stainer

Dates & venue:

Session 1 – Saturday 1 March 2-5pm, Smailholm Village Hall

Session 2 – Saturday 8 March 2-5pm, Smailholm Village Hall

Session 3 – via Zoom, Wednesday 19 March 7.30-9.00pm

Session 4 – via Zoom, Wednesday 26 March 7.30-9.00pm

Session 5 – Saturday 5 April 2-5pm, Smailholm Village Hall

Session 6 – Saturday 12 April 2-5pm, Smailholm Village Hall

Cost & membership:

The course fee is £150 and includes 2025 and 2026 membership of Borders Beekeepers Association.

The course fee for applicants who are already BBA members and have paid their 2025 membership is £135 and includes 2026 membership of Borders Beekeeping Association. If you are unsure about this, please check when booking.

Eligibility, booking & enquiry:

Booking is invited from those who live in the Scottish Borders or for whom BBA is their nearest or most accessible beekeepers’ association. Early booking is recommended as interest is high and places limited.

To book or enquire please email BBA secretary Fiona Hawke here.