After seven years and four successful hives running the beekeeping project at North Liverpool Academy, Northern Schools Trust was keen to share this fantastic experience with other schools in the trust.

Rachel from Wings and Radicles said, "I was absolutely delighted to be offered the opportunity to spread the wonder of beekeeping to even more young people across Liverpool.  This year, participating students at Gateacre will begin by learning the "bee basics" through engaging, classroom based sessions. I will be sharing my knowledge on a range of fascinating topics, including the inner workings of a colony, the vital role bees play as pollinators, swarm prevention techniques, and the theory behind conducting a hive inspection. Students will also get to try their hand at frame making, sample some delicious honey, and learn about other incredible honeybee by-products.

Once the students have built up their confidence and knowledge, we will head outside for our practical sessions.  With beekeeping suits donned and smokers lit, students will have the unique opportunity to witness the magic within the hive firsthand and put their classroom learning into action.  

Best of all, this project is all about giving back. Once our bees get to work, the honey harvested from our hives will be gifted directly back to local community groups, allowing our students to see the sweet rewards of their hard work benefiting our neighbours. Beyond being a fun and educational experience, Wings & Radicles uses beekeeping as a powerful tool to improve wellbeing. Connecting with nature in this way is a brilliant way to support and foster better mental health for our young people."

We are absolutely "buzzin" to welcome our new cohort of beekeepers at Gateacre School!