A sustainable future for honey bees is, in part, reliant on the wonderful, skilled people who nurture them – bee farmers. To support the future of honey bees, it’s vital we inspire & train the next generation of bee farmers.
In 2014, in partnership with the Bee Farmers Association, we launched a unique, three-year apprenticeship scheme designed to equip young people with the skills & knowledge needed to become a bee farmer.
We recently spoke with Ros, one of our talented apprentices about her experience on the scheme and her aspirations for the future.
Growing up on the North Shropshire/Wales border, Ros Ellis always had a passion for the outdoors. Whether it was hiking, clay pigeon shooting, or traveling, she thrived in nature. However, when it came to choosing a career path, she initially struggled to find the right fit. A brief stint in college didn’t feel like the right direction, and a full-time desk job quickly proved unfulfilling.
That all changed when Ros discovered the Rowse Bee a Bee Farmer apprenticeship scheme through her family’s business, Border Honey. With the company expanding, it was the perfect time for Ros to join as an apprentice bee farmer and queen breeder. This opportunity allowed her to combine her love for the outdoors with a hands-on, rewarding career.
“As a family business, all of my knowledge and experience come from working closely with my family,” Ros shares. “We thought it would be a great idea to engage with others in the bee farming sector, and the apprenticeship scheme provided that opportunity.”
Gaining Expertise Through the Rowse Apprenticeship
The Rowse apprenticeship scheme provided Ros with both practical experience and valuable industry insights. While learning from her family’s expertise, she also connected with peers in the wider beekeeping community. This exposure to different methods and sustainability practices broadened her perspective and reinforced her dedication to producing high-quality British honey while minimizing environmental impact.
One of the most profound lessons Ros learned was just how resilient bees are. “Despite all the pressures they face, bees thrive if cared for properly,” she explains. The programme deepened her understanding of the vital role bees play in ecosystems, strengthening her commitment to sustainable practices in beekeeping.
A Future Rooted in Sustainability
eyond learning the technical skills of beekeeping, Ros found the support and camaraderie of her peers to be invaluable. The Rowse apprenticeship empowered her to introduce innovative ideas to the family business, contributing to its growth and diversification. Her major research project even laid the groundwork for an exciting new expansion within the company.
Looking ahead, Ros is dedicated to ensuring the continued success of Border Honey, with sustainability and community engagement at its core. The Rowse apprenticeship has not only equipped her with the skills to one day take over the family business but has also inspired her to advocate for British bee farmers and highlight the critical role of bees in our food systems.
For Ros, the Rowse Bee a Bee Farmer scheme has been truly life-changing. It has provided her with the foundation to build a fulfilling career in beekeeping, all while supporting her long-term goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship. As she moves forward, she remains committed to protecting bees, producing quality honey, and promoting a greener future.
Interested in a career in beekeeping?
Learn more about the Rowse Bee a Bee Farmer apprenticeship scheme and how you can get involved here.
