“We need a healthy bee population for food security, sustainable farming, biodiversity and environmental protection” - David Richards, co-founder, DJRFF

Amidst growing concern for dwindling bee populations worldwide, the foundation’s “Beehives for Schools” project has funded and supported the installation of beehives in a number of schools and colleges across Sheffield, creating interactive and stimulating environments for young people to learn about a range of topical and engaging themes.

 

Beehives for schools

Schools can incorporate beekeeping education into a range of subjects, with the installation of apiaries offering a unique, hands-on approach to learning and affording students opportunities they may not otherwise have had. Pupils are able to assist with tasks such as hive inspections, forage planting and honey extraction and in doing so are encouraged to think about the protection of all pollinators along with other environmental issues. Our Beehives for Schools project offers a unique, hands-on experience for young people which:

  • Encourages them to be curious about ecology and nature
  • Increases their understanding of the world around them
  • Empowers them to become advocates for a greener society
 

  • “The beehives project has been a wonderful opportunity for some of our children, who struggle academically, to really focus on a key task which in itself has been fantastic in raising self-esteem. We began the academic year with a beekeepers club and the children became very confident in checking frames and examining the health of the bees.”

    Dave Wright, Teacher, Stocksbridge Junior School

  • “We have had such an amazing journey with the David and Jane Richards Family Foundation. The equipment and support we have received has been fantastic and the children have learnt so much over the last year. We can't thank DJRFF enough for giving us this opportunity and we are all looking forward to our first harvest of honey from our very busy bees.”

    Sarah Binns, Headteacher, Stannington Infant School

    Hive stream