INTRODUCTION TO BEEKEEPING COURSE 2026
The Beginners' beekeeping course will begin in January 2026. This is a 6 lecture course, for 1 hour on a Wednesday night.
2026 dates
January 14th & 21st: February 4th & 18th; March 4th & 18th
Apiary visit and practical (subject to weather)
Saturday 16th May 1pm to 3pm.
contact abka.secretary@gmail.com to secure your place
The course consists of 6 lectures in total and 1 practical apiary visit. The lectures are given by Mr. Colm Penston who will cover the natural history of the honey bee, theory, practice and some hands on experience at the end of the course. We recommend the "Haynes Bee Manual" as the reference book which costs approximately €25, available from Easons, and through online channels. It is the essential book for all new beekeepers, from hive to honey.
Meet your Instructor : Colm Penston
Colm Penston has been keeping bees for over 10 years and manages apiaries across County Wicklow and surrounding areas. His lifelong fascination with bees has grown into a deep commitment to beekeeping, education, and the protection of our natural environment.
Holding a Diploma in Apiculture from the University of Galway, Colm blends sound scientific knowledge with extensive hands-on experience in the apiary. As a member of ABKA, he continues to learn from, and contribute to, the wider beekeeping community.
Colm is known for his friendly, practical teaching style and his ability to make beekeeping accessible to everyone. His courses are designed to build confidence, whether you are completely new to bees or looking to deepen your understanding. Alongside practical hive management skills, Colm places strong emphasis on the importance of bees in our ecosystem and the conservation of the native Irish honey bee.
Above all, Colm believes that beekeeping should be rewarding, responsible, and rooted in respect for nature. His goal is to support and inspire a new generation of beekeepers while helping to safeguard bees for the future.
