Tutor: Simon Cousins - bees
Time: 10 - 4.30, multiple dates
Location: ASSINGTON MILL, Suffolk, CO10 5LZ
This course is an introduction to the subject, with the emphasis on the
practical aspects of bee-keeping and is designed for beginners. We will
have a look at some beehives but not the inhabitants on this occasion.
Students will learn how to set up an apiary, what equipment to buy,
the terminology, life cycle of the bee, how to identify the different
members of the hive, the bee calendar, and diseases. Today is a
theory-only day (but Simon manages to make quite a dry subject funny).
There will be equipment for sale, including beehives. You can be
sure that Simon, who owns about 25 hives, will have chosen only items
that he would use himself.
Please let us know if you cannot attend at the last minute as
there are usually waiting lists for these courses.
Comments from past students:
Simon presents the course in a very interesting manner and makes
it thoroughly enjoyable and very easily understood. Excellent lunch and
delicious chocolate cake.
I thoroughly enjoyed the 'introduction to beekeeping' day. We
were given so much information both verbally and in the 'course notes'.
I tend not to wear a watch and I was amazed at the time we finished. An
informative and very interesting day. Jan Hodsdon
Learnt a lot today - very interesting and
informative. Lunch was superb - I am a chef so I was very impressed.
Sarah Burroughs
The course was absolutely fantastic. The
facilities were beautiful. The general atmosphere was one of friendly
helpfulness. Overall, a brilliant course in a beautiful place with a
helpful and informative tutor. I would recommend a course at Assington
Mill.
Brilliant introduction to bees. Much better than
the books! Simon is extremely approachable and very funny.
All relevant points covered with great humour.
Learnt a lot more than anticipated. Much more involved in beekeping
than I thought. Luncheon was excellent. Kay Lowery
Home baked and cooked food absolutely
wonderful - delicious! and much appreciated for those of us who don't
ever have shop bought.
Really enjoyable and lots of variety of
teaching styles. Enjoyed the icebreaker - got everyone moving and
talking. Lunch very good - nice to talk at the table.
I had some doubts as to whether I could
keep bees when I arrived, but Simon Cousins has convinced me that it's
easier than it seems to be. Very good, practical course. Julie Bissell
Excellent course, very welcoming as well
as informative. Food was excellent. Would recommend this course to
anyone who has an interest in bees (or not). Simon's enthusiasm is
contagious. Lisa Ledbury
Simon is a great presenter and a lovely
chap - kept our attention the whole day. Fascinating subject. Sophie
& James Bardrick
I really enjoyed the beekeeping course.
Simon explained everything I wanted to know and made it fun too! The
venue was gorgeous. I absolutely adored the place and the food. Andrea
Crowley
Really excellent, many thanks. Fabulous
gluten-free food.
Wonderful in every way. Everyone so
friendly and welcoming. Loved the humour! Chris K.
Good introduction to basics, before any
investment. Next stage, hands on trial to see if able to handle bees
and following an experienced keeper to get general knowledge. David
Leaves
Best course I've been on in a long time. V
knowledgeable [tutor].
Simon brings a great sense of humour to an
already fascinating subject. He brings his own point of view in well,
and shows beginners level practically for everyone. Lunch was amazing!
Course covered all points that I wished to know prior to
deciding whether to keep bees or not. M.D.
