National Beekeeping Leaders Praise Merthyr Tydfil as Emerging Centre for Pollinator Education

Merthyr Tydfil is gaining national attention as a centre of excellence for pollinator and biodiversity education following a recent visit from senior representatives of the Welsh Beekeepers Association (WBKA).

The visit, hosted by the Merthyr Tydfil & District Naturalists Society, showcased the charity’s innovative education programme, which is helping young people understand the vital role of pollinators in food production, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability.

Guests from across Wales, including WBKA Chair Selwyn Runnett and Vice Chair Paul Pearce, travelled to Merthyr Tydfil to explore the project and discuss future opportunities for collaboration. The visit included a tour of the Orbit Centre, where an immersive, interactive learning experience is currently being developed, followed by a visit to the Pollinator Garden and bee-keeping area in Cyfarthfa Park.

Sue Taylor, Chair of the Merthyr Tydfil & District Naturalists Society, said:

“Our education project focuses on helping people understand why pollinators matter, the threats they face, and what practical steps we can all take to support them. It is closely aligned with the new education curriculum and aims to inspire the next generation through engaging, hands-on learning.”

Feedback from the visiting WBKA delegation was overwhelmingly positive, with several describing the facilities and approach in Merthyr Tydfil as “unique” and “inspiring”.

One attendee commented:

“You should be really proud of what you have achieved in Merthyr. I cannot think of similar facilities anywhere else in Wales. The work being done here is giving us real food for thought about how pollinator education can develop nationally.”

Another added:

“The immersive experience is something that has to be seen to be believed. It is an exciting, modern way of engaging people and would be a hugely valuable asset for education across Wales.”

The WBKA has expressed interest in replicating elements of the Merthyr model in other regions, including Mid and North Wales, highlighting the potential for Merthyr Tydfil to play a leading role in shaping the future of pollinator education in Wales.

The project has already engaged local schools, trainee beekeepers, and community groups, including pupils from Ysgol Santes Tudful, who took part in activities during the visit. Organisers also extended their thanks to volunteers and participants who have supported the initiative throughout the year.

While the project continues to grow, there is now an opportunity to further strengthen its impact. Expanding facilities, including the development of a dedicated learning space within Cyfarthfa Park, would unlock additional funding opportunities and enable the programme to reach more people.

With a strong track record spanning over 50 years, the Merthyr Tydfil & District Naturalists Society is well placed to build on this success and position the area as a recognised hub for environmental education and training.

This latest visit underlines the growing reputation of Merthyr Tydfil as a place that is not only celebrating its natural heritage, but also actively shaping a more sustainable future for generations to come.