Participants learned about both wasp and bee nests, including how to identify some of the most common types and the appropriate methods for approaching them safely. The session also explored where honey bees naturally establish themselves in the wild, alongside guidance on how beekeepers can optimise hive conditions to support healthy colonies. Different hive types were discussed, providing a broader understanding of their design and purpose.

Further learning covered what can be expected within honey stores and brood areas, as well as a detailed overview of hive construction and its individual components. A brief history of beekeeping was also included, dating back to ancient Egyptian times—an aspect that continues to fascinate, particularly the remarkable archaeological evidence of honey and beekeeping artefacts from this era.

Frame building proved to be an especially valuable practical exercise. The frames constructed during this session will soon be incorporated into our hives, and it will be rewarding to revisit them during the summer practical sessions to observe how the bees have drawn out and utilised the foundation. This process highlights the importance of thorough preparation during the winter months.

The mini hives continue to be a standout feature of the course. Their manageable size and clear structure make them excellent teaching tools, offering a practical demonstration of how a hive is assembled and how each component functions as part of the whole.

Looking ahead to Week 3, we will explore the vital role of the queen bee in greater detail, alongside an overview of the beekeeping year—an essential topic for anyone aiming to become a competent and confident beekeeper.

Well done to all participants for their commitment and enthusiasm. We look forward to continuing the course and sharing further learning experiences in the weeks ahead.