This is a great example of inappropriate responses. I recently requested information on taxation on another site only to be met with snide unhelpful responses, rather similar to some of the reactions here. The problem is that I am expert in a number of domains, but taxation isn't one of them, and I'm happy to share my own expertise, so I was quite taken aback by the responses. The correct response, as Fiona 1 said, is to treat every question with respect - of course, the OP should be be given the correct information, and should be directed to his local BKA and the courses they run, but abuse in inappropriate.
For Irishguy - I'm rather surprised you found your course to be not particularly worthwhile - like you, I started last year but I found the course content to be fascinating and learned an enormous amount, to the extent that I now understand how much more I have to learn. Much more importantly, though, are the friends i made with people who have an enormous amount of experience and skill which they are only too happy to share.
And some info for the UK beekeepers: the Irish preliminary certificate course doesn't do much beyond the very essential in the area of anatomy, so it's not surprising that someone here with only a year's experience doesn't know the bits & pieces of the bee. Although, unfortunately, everyone should really be thoroughly familiar with the evil varroa.
