New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 4)

Program Overview

The New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 4) equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage a viable apiculture business. Delivered through a blended learning model, the program covers topics such as bee diseases, seasonal management, and beehive products. Graduates are prepared for careers as leading hands in commercial operations, independent beekeepers, or pollination service providers. The program is recognized by Apiculture NZ and aligns with the New Zealand Qualifications Framework.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 4)

This program equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage a viable apiculture business. It prepares graduates to operate as Leading Hands in commercial operations or establish their own. Offered through a unique blended delivery model, the qualification caters to single source, comb, or medical grade manuka honey producers, pollination service providers, and self-marketing producers. Participants will acquire a comprehensive range of skills and knowledge, enabling them to operate independently as beekeepers and improve their job performance. By successfully completing both the New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 3) and New Zealand Certificate in Apiculture (Level 4), individuals will have fulfilled the apprenticeship scheme endorsed by Apiculture NZ (the governing body for apiculture in New Zealand). The program comprises online learning modules and block courses held in various locations across New Zealand.

Outline:

Course Content:

The program encompasses the following topics of learning:

• AGRI4201 Plants, Pollination & Nutrition
• AGRI4202 Bee Diseases & Management plans
• AGRI4203 Seasonal Management & Food Safety
• AGRI4204 Beehive Products & Management Evaluation

Structure:

Assessment:

Assessment methods include:

• Practical assessments
• Assignments
• Presentations
• Examinations
The program utilizes a competency-based assessment approach, ensuring that graduates possess the required skills and knowledge to operate successfully in the apiculture industry.

Teaching:

The program is delivered by experienced and qualified tutors who are active in the apiculture industry. The teaching methods employed include:

• Interactive lectures
• Practical workshops
• Online discussions
• Individual and group tutorials
The program fosters a supportive learning environment where students can actively engage with the instructors and peers.

Careers:

Graduates can pursue careers as:

• Leading Hands in commercial beekeeping operations
• Independent beekeepers running their own businesses
• Pollination service providers
• Honey producers specializing in single source, comb, or medical grade manuka honey
• Bee product manufacturers

Other:

• The program is recognized by Apiculture NZ.
• Graduates are eligible to apply for membership in Apiculture NZ.
• The program is aligned with the New Zealand Qualifications Framework (NZQF).
• Students are expected to have completed at least three years of secondary school education and achieved National Certificate of Educational Achievement (Level 1) or equivalent.
• Students must be 16 years or older on the commencement date of the program.
• Work experience in a practical beekeeping environment is required for successful completion of the program.
• Students are responsible for obtaining their own beekeeping equipment.