HAWAS FOUNDATION
BEEHIVES FOR SMART SCHOOLS
The British ‘Beehives for Schools’ project has shown how beekeeping brings real joy and excitement to the classroom, as well as encouraging curiosity about the wider world.
Bees teach students about various subjects including math, physics, environment and agriculture. The annual "International Meeting of Young Beekeepers" gives the students elected to represent their country the opportunity of a life-changing trip to meet, work and learn from fellow young beekeepers from almost 30 countries around the world.
The Ashbrow School in Huddersfield beekeeper said after 7 years experience: "I can remember one young man who's confidence in the classroom was pretty low but, by spending time outside with the bees over a number of weeks, his confidence went through the roof and had an huge impact on his work inside school. He felt good about himself as he achieved things he thought he never would, and this is very much the case with a lot of children."
APITHERAPY
A couple of beehives for schools does not only provide honey and self-confidence to the young beekeepers. Beekeeping has therapeutic Stress Reduction effects and serves as a healthy distraction for those dealing with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Observing the bees’ interactions with flowers and the environment, connects with nature. It provides an uplifting effects on mental health and well-being. Attending bees teaches self-control, as it obliges the beekeeper to be gentle and focus on what he or she is is doing.
Beehives at school can also inspire carriers, such as that of beekeeper, or apitherapist. Apitherapy is an alternative therapy that uses products made by honeybees for medicinal purposes. Honey has mainly antifungal and antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antitumor, and antimicrobial properties.
