Course Information

The course also aims to give you confidence to become more aware of your own senses whilst working together to achieve a common goal. You will de-stress in a friendly environment, mindfully handling bees and notice natural rhythms of nature. Suitable for complete beginners!

• Learn about different the types of bees and their differences in biological lifecycles as well as the crucial role they play in our ecosystem
• Explore threats and problems bees are encountering, and ways we can help them
• Explore how best to become a “pollinator ambassador”
• Explore different ways we can help, including the important role gardening for pollinating insects can play in creating bee-friendly gardens and green spaces
• Watch a colony of honeybees and observe their lifecycle in their nest
• Learn how beekeepers can work with honeybees in a more natural and sympathetic way
• See how honey is processed from the hive to the table and how beeswax is processed and its possible uses
• Gain information to decide whether beekeeping is for you and how to take it further with beekeeping if you choose.
• Includes mindfulness exercises to improve well-being, becoming more aware of your senses, your environment and the natural rhythms of nature, working together to achieve a common goal and relaxing in a friendly environment.
• Look at ways beekeepers can contribute to safeguarding our bee populations and explore whether this is a possible avenue for you
• Advice on books, magazines & information on the internet

Facilitators

Jonathan Garratt has had various work in conservation, the environment, agriculture and environmental consultancy. He grew up with honeybees, going out to manage the hives with his father as a child in Menai Bridge, Ynys Môn, and eventually taking on the full care of the hives. He has been a Seasonal Bee Inspector for the National Bee Unit. He has also run courses in bees and beekeeping related courses for many years, either privately or through other organisations such as the National Botanic Gardens Wales, The Snowdonia Society, Bangor University, the Centre for Alternative Technology and the Woodland Skills Centre. Jonathan has great enthusiasm and enjoys dealing with honeybees and passing on his skills to others.

Lisa Mundle, Jonathan’s wife, is an equally competent beekeeper and manages the processing and marketing of Pen Y Bonc honey and hive products.  She will also be assisting on the course. Lisa works for ‘Wild Elements’, Bangor promoting peoples connection to nature particularly through gardening. She has run many events through schools including through the medium of Welsh.

Cost and Booking

For more information, prices or to book please email [email protected]