Strengthening the Future of British Beekeeping
Delivering expert regional training through the Healthy Bees Plan 2030.
Hive Side Training
A Unified Approach to Bee Health
The Hive-Side Training (HST) programme is a strategic initiative funded by the government under the Healthy Bees Plan 2030. This project represents a vital partnership between the Animal & Plant Health Agency (APHA) and the Bee Farmers’ Association (BFA) to ensure the long-term sustainability and health of the UK’s honeybee population.
Funded by: The Authority (APHA/NBU).
Delivered by: The Bee Farmers’ Association.
Objective: To provide high-quality, professional-led training to beekeepers across all UK regions.
Practical, Professional, and Regional
The HST programme was developed to move beyond the classroom by taking learning directly to the hive, ensuring that participants gain hands-on experience in real-world environments. Our curriculum is designed to meet rigorous standards, focusing on advanced husbandry through practical techniques for maintaining strong, productive colonies.
We place a high priority on disease management, equipping beekeepers with the skills for early identification and management of pests and pathogens. Furthermore, the programme is committed to sustainability, ensuring the UK beekeeping infrastructure remains resilient and professionalised for the next generation of bee farmers.
Expert-Led Learning
Our network of 20 regional trainers represents some of the most experienced bee farmers in the United Kingdom. Each trainer has been selected for their deep technical knowledge and their ability to translate complex bee health concepts into actionable hive management strategies.
With a focus on regional logic, the portal allows beekeepers to find and book sessions with experts who understand the specific environmental challenges of their local area.
Managing Your Investment
As a project funded by public money, we maintain the highest levels of transparency and data integrity. The £20 returnable deposit scheme is managed by the BFA to ensure that every funded place is utilised effectively.
Every booking is backed by a secure audit trail, and all attendee data is handled in strict accordance with UK GDPR and DEFRA reporting requirements.
