If you are considering taking up the old craft of beekeeping it is important that you have a good understanding of what is involved.
A beginners’ beekeeping course will give you the knowledge, practical skills and confidence that is required.
Our association runs a course for beginners in February and March each year. The course covers the syllabus of the preliminary examination of the Federation of Irish Beekeepers’ Associations (FIBKA) and uses classroom instruction and also practical demonstrations.
The 2023 course is now closed and the next course will be held in Spring 2024. The cost for the course will be announced nearer the commencement date. The course consists of six classes which will be held on Monday nights. Included in the cost is a copy of The Haynes Bee Manual, which includes step by step sequences, instructions and specially created diagrams. The course is given by six experienced beekeepers with many years of knowledge between them. A Certificate of Completion on the Introduction to Beekeeping will be given to all attendees. This certificate is approved by the Federation of Irish Beekeepers' Associations (FIBKA) and is issued by Fingal North Dublin Beekeepers' Association.
If on completion of the course, a beginner wishes to proceed further with beekeeping we will organise visits to the Association apiary, insurance and progression to level two.
Our courses have become very popular in recent years, so your place will be reserved on payment of the course fee. For further information, please contact beginners@fingalbeekeepers.net
Another excellent way to get involved in beekeeping is to join our association, attend the monthly meetings and chat to members. At the end of the first year you will be in a good position to decide if you wish to take a beekeeping course and become a beekeeper.
Many other beekeeping associations, run their own beginners’ courses. If you are not in Dublin, you will find the location of your local association on the FIBKA website www.irishbeekeeping.ie.