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I have been asked by a number of members if I would describe of the BBKA exam system. I know from the number of questions that I get asked that there is a general interest and also a lack of knowledge about the exams, what is covered and what form the exams take. There are a range of both theory and practical exams organised so that you can progress from one level to the next.
Basic exam
This is the first exam which is open to all beekeepers with at least two years experience. The exam does not involve a written paper and requires the candidate to open a colony of bees and describe to the examiner what is seen. There is also a question and answer session with the examiner. Modular exams
There are eight modular exams, each of which involves a 1 1/2 hour written paper. Candidates must hold the Basic certificate. The eight topics are: 1. Honeybee Management 2. Products and Forage 3. Pests, Diseases and Poisoning 4. Intermediate Biology 5. Biology 6. Behaviour 7. Selection and Breeding 8. Management and History
Written examinations are held in March each year at numerous centres around the country. The modules can be taken in any order, or you can simply choose to take an individual module which you find interesting. Completing Modules 1-3, and one other results in the award of the Intermediate Certificate. Completing modules 1-3, and 5-8 achieves the Advanced Theory certificate.
Practical exams
There are two practical examinations, The General Gertificate in Beekeeping Husbandry carried out at the candidate’s apiary. The Advanced certificate in Beekeeping Husbandry takes place at Stoneleigh.Master Beekeeper
Achievement of both the Advanced Theory certificate and the Advanced Husbandry certificate results in the award of the title Master Beekeeper.
In addition to the above exams, there are separate examinations in specialist subjects including Microscopy and Honey Judging.
As a member of CBKA half of your examination fees are paid for by the association.
If you would like to learn more about your bees I can certainly recommend you consider studying for one or more of the exams. There is so much to learn, and the increased knowledge can improve your enjoyment of the craft. Having taken most of the examinations, my knowledge of bees has greatly increased, as has the realisation of just how much there is still to learn.
Graham Royle
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