The SBKA is seeking to set up a mentoring scheme for beginner / novice beekeepers to be paired with a local, experienced mentor. Intended in the first instance for those taking SBKA Beginners Courses, if you are an experienced member willing to volunteer your time to support the next generation of beekeepers please contact martin@sheffieldbeekeepers.org.uk

Mentor Scheme Framework

The goal of this scheme is to establish mentor : mentee relationships that transition the mentee from a novice to a more confident, independent beekeeper. While the precise details of how mentors and mentees interact is up to each pairing to agree amongst themselves, the following guidance is provided to set expectations.

The Mentor will :

• Provide instruction, support and guidance on practical aspects of beekeeping both in person and via messaging platforms such as WhatsApp etc. The mentor will endeavour to respond to ‘routine’ messages within 24h.
• Be prepared to host the mentee at their apiary and/or attend the metees apiary so as to provide hands-on support and guidance.
• Signpost mentees towards additional resources as appropriate.

The Mentee will…

• Seek answers and learning from multiple sources and not become dependent on the mentor for all aspects of their own development as beekeepers.
• Not place undue demands on the mentor in terms of time, travel etc unless agreed in advance
• Retain ultimate responsibility for their own colonies and apiary.
• Allow 24h for a response to routine messages. Immediate calls should be reserved for time-sensitive emergencies, such as active swarming.
• Where possible, the mentee will perform physical inspections / manipulations when under the mentor’s supervision. 
• Will not hold their mentor responsible for the success or otherwise of their beekeeping efforts.
• Notify the mentor and the National Bee Unit immediately if they suspect a notifiable disease (e.g., AFB/EFB) in their own apiary.

Both sides agree that….

• They will treat each other with mutual respect and understanding. In particular, being respectful of the others time. This could include restricting the timing and volume of messages, responding to messages in a timely manner and being punctual to in person meetings.
• Each assumes responsibility for their own physical safety, protective equipment and any allergic reactions that may occur during the mentorship.
• Both parties agree to follow appropriate bio-security measures (e.g., cleaning hive tools and washing suits/gloves) when moving between different apiaries to prevent the spread of disease
• Both sides are free to end their mentor : mentee arrangement at any time for any reason without ill feelings or consequences for either side.
• The SBKA will not be held responsible for the success or otherwise of the mentor : mentee scheme and are merely serving as a facilitator seeking to establish a mutually beneficial relationship.