Episode 8
The Apprentice And The Bee
Cocoon Transfer

As our Apprentices’ 1st year at college draws to an end, our Bees prepare for the start of their approaching flight season.  Watch as we remove our Red Mason bee cocoons where they have been over-wintering, within a wood shed.  Over 60 cocoons are transferred into our hatchery and release drawer where they will rest […]

Episode 7
The Apprentice And The Bee
1st Year Timber Framed Construction

This month, whilst at college our 1st Year Carpentry & Joinery Apprentices are studying Timber Framed Construction & Internal Partitioning Systems.  By creating initial drawings, our apprentices learn to appreciate scale and setting-out skills prior to applying their practical skills within the workshop.  This module marks the final leg of their 1st year at college […]

Episode 6
The Apprentice And The Bee
Cleaning The Viewing Panel

In a parallel approach to the meticulous craftsmanship applied to the window construction by our apprentices, our Bee Hotel incorporates vision panels, which offer us a unique opportunity to engage and understand the intricate workings of the solitary bee habitat.  Following the recent removal and storage of our bee cocoons ahead of the impending Spring […]

Episode 5
The Apprentice And The Bee
2nd Year Window Construction

This month, whilst at college our 2nd Year Carpentry & Joinery Apprentices are studying Window Construction.  Their focus involves the Machining and hand assembly of a bespoke architectural joinery product. Designed with a dual purpose of functionality and the infusion of light and vision, the apprentices’ work reflects a commitment to craftsmanship and the creation […]

Episode 4
The Apprentice And The Bee
Leafcutter Bees

Meanwhile, in our natural environment, we have been following the progress of our Leafcutter bees though our Hotel Window.  In this video clip our Leafcutter bee cocoons are about to be carefully relocated, to facilitate the cleaning process for the upcoming 2024 season. 

Episode 3
The Apprentice And The Bee
2nd Year Window Construction

This month, whilst at college our 2nd Year Carpentry & Joinery Apprentices are studying Window Construction.  Their focus involves the meticulous process of creating setting-out details using a drawing rod, a method that empowers them to gain a comprehensive understanding of each component.  This preparatory phase is crucial as it precedes the actual manufacturing of […]

Episode 2
The Apprentice And The Bee
Leafcutter Bees

As the arrival of Spring approaches, some guests who checked into our hotels last summer are still in residence, requiring careful relocation to facilitate the cleaning process for the upcoming 2024 season.  A crucial aspect of this preparation involves the Leafcutter bee, whose fascinating behaviour was captured in a video from the previous summer. This […]

Episode 1
The Apprentice & The Bee
1st Year Door Construction

Our first-Year Carpentry & Joinery Apprentices are currently halfway through their foundational year at college.  A key aspect of their curriculum involves the construction of a 4-panelled door, a task that demands proficiency in essential skills such as Setting and Marking-Out, Machining, and Workshop Hand-Skills. This hands-on project serves as a practical demonstration of their […]

Introduction
The Apprentice And The Bee

Our initiative, “The Apprentice and The Bee” parallels the challenges faced by both Apprentices and Solitary Bees, emphasising awareness, commitment, and education for sustainable outcomes.   Join us as we explore and involve ourselves in the fascinating similarities between the developing world of our apprentices and our solitary bees.