Training

We will examine swarming theories in detail, including triggers and influences within the nest  and  the behaviour of honeybees in the lead up to swarming, on issue of a swarm, selection and re-locating to a new nest site and back in the parent colony. To have any chance of controlling swarms an understanding of what is happening in the hive is essential otherwise it will be a complete mystery to you. We will cover swarm prevention techniques and compare and practice all of the main swarm control methods – Pagden, Demaree, nucleus method, shook swarm,  etc. We also consider efficient and effective approaches to collecting swarms including the use of bait hives and personal and public safety. The course is classroom-based and does not use live colonies allowing us to practice specific manipulations without any distractions.

SBA syllabus: Modules 1, 6, 8

Course Fees

This is a Healthy ‘BEES’ Project course and fees for students are generously subsidised by the SRDP Knowledge Transfer and Innovation Fund, which is jointly funded by the Scottish Government and the European Union. Bookings are discounted to £60.00 (plus an administration charge by Eventbrite for online bookings) which includes teas, coffees, lunch and course handouts for both days.  

Instructions and venue information

Joining instructions with course outline, what to bring, and venue information will be sent to students upon booking.

Target Audience

These 2 day courses are aimed at enthusiastic beekeepers at all levels who simply want to improve their beekeeping. They will also be of use to beekeepers taking any of the SBA modules or pracical assessments.They are delivered by Scottish Expert Beemasters on behalf of Moray Beekeepers Association. If you wish to be a better beekeeper and learn more about your bees and their care then these courses are for you.

Students are welcome to apply on a first come, first served basis.

Course Booking Cancellation Policy

Moray Beekeepers Association reserves the right to reschedule or cancel advertised courses. Should this be necessary then you will be given the option of a refund or a transfer to another course/date. We will give as much notice as possible, but regret that we cannot be responsible for any other costs such as those relating to travel or accommodation that might result from this.

Students who have booked on courses may cancel and receive a full refund if notice of cancellation is received at least four weeks before the course start date. If notice of cancellation is received less than four weeks before the course start date, refunds will only be issued if the cancelled place(s) can be re-sold.

A course booking indicates an acceptance of this cancellation policy.