Mission
Charles Butler 400 Foundation mission is to bring Nature and the Bee Story to communities and schools to create interest and change lives, and inspire a new generation of environmental activists and beekeepers to sustain our natural world.
Bees in our Time
To enable understanding of the importance of all bees, and what bees can teach us, and how we can create an environment where humans, bees and all pollinators can thrive.
Nature in Harmony
Creating interest, focus and attention with the natural world of bees, insects, birds, and plant life, to foster a strong sense of belonging by connecting with the environment.
Wellness in the Community
Supporting vulnerable young people and adults in personal growth, improved mental wellbeing and resilience, and help them to foster a genuine love of nature
Kind words
“Inclusion School working in partnership with Ken and Barbara from the Charles Butler 400 Foundation has been a wonderful experience. Together, we brought to life The Bee Story— It was a whole-school project enriching learning in meaningful and imaginative ways.
As an SEMH school, engagement and emotional connection are key to learning. The bee-themed curriculum provided that, with not only academic learning, but practical experiences, such as artwork, cooking and shopping for bee friendly plants at the garden centre. Ken and Barbara’s enthusiasm, knowledge and passion for bees helped inspire a sense of wonder and curiosity across the school.
Through carefully planned, cross-curricular lessons, our students explored the vital role bees play in our ecosystem. We saw enterprise projects buzzing with creativity, artwork blooming with colour, and children proudly preparing bee-themed dishes in cooking. In English learners wrote detailed instructions for making bee drinkers and Science explored scientific ideas like surface tension in hands-on ways.
One of the highlights were the thoughtful assemblies led by Ken, where students tasted honey, examined the inner workings of a hive, and experienced the world of bees up close. These assemblies were not only informative but practical, with rolling our own wax candles—providing sensory experiences that made learning tangible and memorable.
This collaboration has been a great example of how community partnerships can enhance education experiences. The project encouraged curiosity, teamwork, giving every learner the chance to get involved and be proud of their learning. We are grateful to Ken, Barbara, and the Charles Butler 400 Foundation for their generosity.”
— Inclusion School, June 2025