Since 2001, we have offered training and certification for honey show judges in the time-honored tradition of the INIB system from the United Kingdom. The INIB training is the most stringent of its kind in the world for aspiring honey judges. UGA and the University of Florida have the only two partnerships of their kind between the USA and United Kingdom.
There are three levels in the Honey Judge (HJ) program:
- INIB Honey Judge Candidate
- INIB Honey Judge
- Senior INIB Honey Judge
One can become an HJ in one year. It takes at least one additional year to achieve the rank of Senior HJ, although candidates for both levels may proceed through the certification process at their own pace. There is no time limit for the completion of the program requirements.
To complete the course there is a nominal fee of £75.00
To become an HJ Candidate, one must attend the Young Harris Beekeeping Institute (YHBI), the University of Florida Bee College (UFBC) or Institute of Northern Ireland Beekeepers (INIB) and participate in specified introductory HJ training. The training includes a hands on workshop on “Preparing, Showing Exhibiting, and Judging Bee Produce for the Shot Bench”.
There are two Honey Judge certifications. The first certification, INIB Honey Judge (INIB HJ) require that six steps be completed:
- Beginner Training
- Stewarding Honey Shows
- Earning Honey Show Participation points
- Present a Honey Judge Portfolio
- Assembly and Presentation of Judging Kit
- Final Exam
These typically can be accomplished within one calendar year, though it may take longer depending on the individual. There is no time limit enforced for the completion of these steps.
The second certification, Senior Honey Judge (SrHJ), requires that six steps must be completed:
- Advanced Training
- Stewarding/Judging Honey Shows
- Honey Show Participation Points
- Present a Senior Honey Judge Portfolio
- Presentation of Judge’s Kit and Attire
- Final Exam
These typically can be accomplished within 1 calendar year beyond the time required to achieve HJ grade, though it may take longer depending on the individual. There is no time limit enforced for the completion of these steps. Only certified HJs (Level 1) will be permitted entry into the SrHJ (level 2) certification program.
