Category: The Apprentice & The Bee

Episode 32
The Appprentice And The Bee
Full Hotel

This year has been a huge success for our Bee Hotel, with every flute filled to capacity despite the challenging wet conditions.  Thanks to careful planning, thoughtful design, shared expertise, and dedicated management, our hotel has exceeded all expectations.  Much like our Apprentices, the Bees have shown determination and perseverance to meet their goals. Now, […]

Episode 31
The Appprentice And The Bee
Pitched Roof Construction

This month, whilst at college our 2nd Year Carpentry & Joinery Apprentices are studying Pitched Roof Construction.   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 start of their 2nd Year at college and demonstrates their development from […]

Episode 30
The Appprentice And The Bee
Natural Progression

Just like our Apprentices, we like to check-in on the natural progression of our Bees as they move onto the next stage of their development.  In this photo from our Bee Hotel, we see Red Mason bees at different stages of their journey:    ▪ In the bottom flute, male larvae have nearly consumed their […]

Episode 29
The Appprentice And The Bee
Seasons Change but Succession Planning Continues

As Summer draws to a close, Autumn signals the beginning of a new season of learning for our Apprentices.  Seasonal changes are a natural time for reflection – and a great opportunity to assess our progress, in a positive light.   Just like our Bees, secure in their hotels and progressing through their development, our Apprentices […]

Episode 28
The Appprentice And The Bee
The Most Skilful Builders

In this video clip, we watch a Red Mason bee deliver wet mud in her mandibles, then proceed to work it into a protective end-cap to finish-off her run of nest cells.  Why are our bees similar to our skilful Construction trades?  Nature has given us a huge variety of solitary bee species, such as […]

Episode 26:
The Appprentice And The Bee
All in the Day’s Work of the Solitary Bee

In this video clip, we capture a rare glimpse of a female Red Mason bee delivering pollen to her final chamber, brushing off her cargo to ensure her offspring have an adequate food supply to survive the winter months.  Just like our Apprentices, this bee must use logical thinking and precise calculations whilst working.  Considerations […]

Episode 24:
The Appprentice And The Bee
Situational Awareness and Output!

Are solitary bees efficient pollinators? Absolutely!   For example, commercial apple growers benefit from the free pollination services of the Red Mason bee.  This species can be 120 times more efficient at pollinating apple blossoms than honeybees.  In our Apprentices’ development, understanding efficiency and output is critical.  This incredible film clip shows a Red Mason bee […]

Episode 23:
The Appprentice And The Bee
3rd Year Apprentices – Completion of Complex Timber Stair Construction

Behold a stunning example of a quarter turn winder stair, complete with tapered treads and a beautifully crafted balustrade.   Throughout this fully assessed unit, our Apprentices have honed their skills in recognising applying current legislation and health and safety regulations essential for constructing complex stairs.  Just as our solitary bees depend on a reliable source […]