Getting a Buzzing Career

Honey bees impact the life of everyone in the UK and make an important contribution to agriculture, biosecurity and the environment.  Whether as a hobby or a career, those interested in working with honey bees can soon benefit from taking the Level 1 Award in Introduction to Beekeeping, the UK’s very first regulated beekeeping qualification.* 

Created by Lantra Awards in partnership with the British Beekeepers Association (BBKA), the Level 1 Award in Introduction to Beekeeping Qualification will provide a sound industry foundation to learners who are entering the industry or seeking to formalise existing experience. This Qualification will give learners the skills and knowledge they need to make the craft of beekeeping a sustainable activity and improve the quality of beekeeping.

Chris Deaves, Chair of Education & Husbandry for the BBKA, said: “One in three mouthfuls of the food we eat is dependent on pollination at a time when a crisis is threatening the world's honey bees.  This new qualification is a huge step forward in the vocational training of beekeepers and will support the UK’s food production in the future.”

Lesley Barr, Head of Product Development with Lantra Awards, said: “This is a great opportunity for anyone interested in working with honey bees.  Finally there will be a way into the industry that provides real skills with a recognised qualification at the end.  The BBKA has been instrumental in the development of this qualification and we are pleased to be working with them. 

“It is important that the future of beekeeping is safe-guarded by individuals with the skills to care of the UK’s honey bees.  This qualification is designed to cultivate the next generation of beekeepers so now is the time to take your beekeeping career or hobby to the next level.” 

For more information or to register your interest in the Level 1 Award in Beekeeping, visit the website, call 08457 078007 or email.  For more information on honey bees and beekeeping, visit British BeeKeepers Associations.