🐝Bee Visit Enchanted Forest and their Y6 Buddies

EYFS were joined by their Buddies from Year 6 for a fascinating visit from local beekeepers Colin and Barney.

Barney and Colin talked to the children about the importance of bees and their role in supporting the environment. The children learned about honey, beeswax, royal jelly and the structure of a hive, as well as the different roles of the queen bee, nurse bees and worker bees. Colin explained how bees work together to protect their hive from intruders and that they will usually only sting if they feel frightened or threatened, emphasising the importance of staying calm around them. The children were amazed to discover that bees can travel up to three miles to collect nectar and then perform a special “waggle dance” to communicate the location of food sources to other bees. Colin also shared that bees have been on Earth for around one million years.

The visit was made even more memorable as Colin brought along real beeswax and honey for the children to see and taste. He also showed the children both old and modern beekeeper equipment, including bee masks and a full beekeeping suit.

The children were fascinated to learn how beekeepers in the past often wore baskets over their faces for protection, whereas modern beekeeping masks allow clear visibility while still keeping beekeepers safe. The children enthusiastically shared some of their own knowledge too, telling Colin about bees in Japan and discussing concerns about declining bee populations. It was an engaging, hands-on experience that inspired everyone to appreciate and protect these incredible insects.🐝