EDUCATION
Learning about the art of beekeeping starts ideally with your local beekeeping association. ABKA, being affiliated to the Federation of Irish beekeepers (FIBKA) follows their teaching syllabus and structure.
It all starts with an 'Introduction to beekeeping ' evening which is open to all comers, with no obligation. If you think you want to know more, this is followed up with a Beginners course run over 6 evenings from January to April. After completion, a certificate of attendance is issued and you then have the choice to sit the Beginners examination. This is usually followed up with apiary visits where an opportunity to gain 'hands on' experience is provided.
Studying for further education (if one decides ) takes the form of Intermediate and Senior study sessions followed by exams under three areas, practical written, scientific written, and apiary practical. ABKA demonstrates and provides study groups at all of the stages in this process.
Our Association Apiary provides beginners and improvers with the opportunity to gain practical beekeeping experience with mentors providing demonstrations and guidance.
Honey Bee Health
The deadline for applying for the 12 week course on honey bee health in the University of Galway has been extended to Monday, December 15. This is a universally recognized module worth 5 ECTs and is one of hundreds of microcredentials offered in the third level sector across the country. It is blended learning. Weekly lectures happen on zoom on Wednesday evenings and are recorded. There is one on campus activity in April looking at foul brood disease and the effects of Varroa.
See here for all the details on NUIG website