Want to Be an Apprentice Beefarmer? Aged between 16-24?

We are delighted that the Beefarmers Association has developed an apprenticeship scheme. It is exactly the sort of programme I would have liked to do when I started as the modules are very varied and cover lots of aspects. It is still shocking that 85% of honey 
eaten in Britain is imported despite the growing public interest in honey and beekeeping. We are keen to bring on the next generation of beekeepers who are equipped to deal with the complex issues facing both pollinators and food producers but ultimately to produce top quality honey for people to enjoy. We love our job and think an apprentice will too. 

More information on what the three year training will cover is below, information on pay will be disclosed on request. The apprenticeship leads to a City and Guilds level 3 or higher. You must be between 16-24 to apply.

The apprenticeship scheme has been developed with the support of Defra and the Worshipful Company of Wax Chandlers.

So what will BFA apprentices study?

• introduction to beekeeping

• anatomy and dissection

• microscopy

• diseases

• integrated pest management

• pollen and nutrition

• botany and forage sources

• queen rearing and stock improvement

• seasonal management

• processing hive products

• bottling and presentation

• equipment cleansing and recovery

• carpentry including basic woodworking skills

• setting up a business

• finance

• business structures

• marketing

• the competitive environment

• the industry worldwide

• first aid

• health and safety

• food hygiene.

There will be 46 weeks practical work with the company both in the warehouse and with the bees. There may be opportunities to work on different bee farms throughout the country and visit different bee farming set-ups to gain a variety of experience. There may be some experience abroad as well.