Dev Education | UCNCBeekeepers

Union County NC Beekeepers Association

Nurturing Tomorrows Beekeepers

Step into the fascinating world of beekeeping with Union County NC Beekeepers Association. Our Bee School offers a hands-on approach to learning, combining expert instruction with practical experience. From understanding bee behavior to mastering hive management, we'll guide you through every step of your beekeeping journey.

Fall Beginning Bee School 2024

Beginner Bee School Details

Start Date: September 9, 2024

Location: Union County Special Events Center, 3230-D Presson Road, Monroe, NC 28112

Cost: $125

Course Information

Embark on a comprehensive journey into the world of beekeeping. Our carefully crafted course provides the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to become a confident and successful beekeeper. Led by certified experts, you'll explore every aspect of beekeeping while working towards your NC Certified Beekeeper status. 

8 In-Person Class Sessions
Comprehensive curriculum covering NC Certified Beekeeper material
Presented by Certified Beekeepers
Door prizes at each session
Opportunity to take the NC Certified Beekeeper exam

Our curriculum is designed to take you from a curious beginner to a confident beekeeper. You'll start with the fundamentals of bee biology and behavior, progress through essential beekeeping practices, and culminate with advanced topics like swarm management and hive health. With a balance of theory and practical skills, you'll be well-prepared to manage your hives successfully

Honeybee basics: races, anatomy, biology, and physiology
Beekeeping equipment and hive management
Seasonal beekeeping practices
Bee health, parasites, and hive invaders
Swarm management and prevention
Hands-on skills: lighting smokers, building frames and boxes
Products of the hive and agricultural importance

We've thought of everything to ensure you're fully equipped for your beekeeping adventure. From essential literature to hands-on tools and ongoing support, our comprehensive package sets you up for success. Plus, with club membership included, you'll be part of a vibrant community of fellow beekeepers ready to share their knowledge and experiences.

'Beekeeping for Dummies 5th edition' paperback book
2024 & 2025 UCNCBA Club membership
Union County Beekeepers Club T-Shirt
Free mentoring from experienced beekeepers (upon passing the state exam)
Giveaways after every class

Our carefully structured 8-week program guides you through every aspect of beekeeping. Each session builds upon the last, gradually allowing you to develop your skills and knowledge. From your first introduction to the fascinating world of bees to your final exam, you'll be supported every step of the way. Prepare for an engaging, hands-on learning experience that fits conveniently into your weekly schedule.

All classes are held from 6:30-9:00 p.m. at the Union County Special Events Center:

09/09 - Orientation
09/23 - Introduction to Honeybees and Beekeeping
09/30 - Bee Anatomy and Behavior
10/07 - Time to Get Started (Equipment)
10/14 - Acquiring and Installing Bees
10/28 - Seasonal Management (Hands-On Session)
11/4 - Keeping Bees Healthy
11/12 - Review & Exam

Refund Policy

We are committed to providing our students with high-quality instruction, but we understand that sometimes circumstances arise that may require a refund. Refunds are at the complete discretion of the UCNCBA and can only be issued in extreme and unavoidable circumstances.

Children under 16

If you have a child who would like to join you in this class, please get in touch with us.

Questions?
Contact Carolanne Ciavolella at: education.ucncba@gmail.com

How Can I Become a State Certified Beekeeper?

Your Path to Professional Recognition

Elevate your beekeeping journey by becoming a State Certified Beekeeper. This certification not only validates your skills and knowledge but also opens doors to advanced learning and networking opportunities within the beekeeping community. Our course is designed to prepare you fully for this important milestone in your beekeeping career.

Certification Requirements

NCSBA Membership

Maintain an active membership with the North Carolina State Beekeepers Association ($15 per individual).

Please join NCSBA before the Test date to allow time for your welcoming email. BRING YOUR NCSBA MEMBER ID TO THE TEST. You can join NCSBA via this link: ncbeekeepers.org

Written Exam

Successfully pass a comprehensive written test, which will be administered through the UCNCBA chapter at the end of the course. Please remember to bring your Member # to the test.

Practical Exam

Demonstrate your hands-on skills by passing a practical test. Administered by another certified beekeeper through a local chapter. Four months of beekeeping experience is needed before taking the practical test.

Study Resources

To help you prepare for certification, we provide:

Comprehensive course textbook - provided at the beginning of Bee School
Detailed class notes covering all exam topics
Certified Study Guide tailored to the exam requirements - LINK
Certified Practical Exam guide to prepare you for the hands-on test - LINK

With these resources and the knowledge from our course, you'll be well-equipped to achieve your State Certified Beekeeper status. Remember, this certification is just the beginning of your beekeeping journey!