Practical Beekeeping for Beginners
The “Virginia Beekeeping Teaching Consortium” program, offered in fifteen areas
in Virginia, will host eight two-hour weekly in-person classes starting January 15 th ,
2026 at 7:00 pm in Woodstock. This is an exciting opportunity for new as well as
experienced beekeepers.
In addition to the eight sessions, the program offers three field experiences at the
Shenandoah County Beekeepers Club apiary located in the Seven Bends State
Park. Students will work side-by-side experienced beekeepers receiving hands-on
learning.
Led by EAS certified Master Beekeeper Brenda Kiessling as well as experienced
beekeepers Amy Hodge and Scott Currie, the sessions welcome anyone who is
interested in keeping honey bees, the great pollinators. Children (generally those
fifth grade and older) are encouraged but must be able to sit through the two hour
classes.
A curiosity about bees and keeping bees alive in Virginia is the primary
requirement to take the class. The class is aimed at those who want to keep bees,
though becoming a beekeeper is not necessary to participate. In addition, anyone
who has kept bees will find the class provides helpful information through subject
matter and class discussions.
Classes include information on purchasing equipment, obtaining honey bees,
honey bee colony biology, management and location of hives, and floral sources
appropriate for honey bees.
The cost of the class is $95 per family. Cost includes three (3) books, an electronic
copy of weekly lessons, reference materials, and a one-year family membership to
the local club. In addition, each Shenandoah County student will work with
an experienced mentor throughout the year.
Class Dates: Thursdays
January 15, 2026
January 22, 2026
January 29, 2026
No Class February 5, 2026
February 12, 2026
February 19, 2026
February 26, 2026
No Class March 5, 2026
March 12, 2026
March 19, 2026
Hands-on #1 Saturday, February 7 th (2-
4pm)
Hands-on #2 Saturday, March 7 th (2-4pm)
Hands-on #3 Saturday, April11th (2-4pm)
For information contact: Scott Currie,
540-325-5202
email at: sscurrie@yahoo.com
Register by January 14, 2026
This in-person class meets at 1195
Hisey Ave, Woodstock.
This and all hands-on activities will
comply with Covid-19 regulations.
About the instructors
EAP certified Master Beekeepers
Brenda Kiessling
Long time EAS master beekeeper
Ann Fraser
EAS master beekeeper, member of Northern Virginia Beekeepers and Virginia State Beekeepers Association
Experienced beekeepers
Amy Hodge
Shenandoah County Beekeeper and club apiary manager
Scott Currie
Long time Shenandoah county beekeeper producing local bees and honey
