My aim is to have a hive by spring 2016. I think thats a good starting point?
My Bee Keeping Association runs free, to paid up members, theory courses during the winter months and we have a training apiary where new beekeepers learn the hands on part from May to August. I'd suggest you get in touch with your local association and ask if they offer similar. It would be good if you could observe and maybe partake in some practical work in a supervised apiary environment before getting into the theory as it gives you an insight into the things being taught on the theory course.
We also breed colonies in National hives/nucs for the new beginners to purchase on a first come first served order basis and keep at the association apiary for the first season. Thus when you get your own bees you have some knowledge to work on and are mentored as well.
It's an interesting hobby with an almost vertical learning curve. Just when you think you are reaching a plateau the path ahead gets steeper
The National is a popular hive which is used extensively in the UK. If you adopt this standard you have plenty of beekeepers who can help you out with frames, foundation and other kit. The stand is separate so you have the option of what type to use. In my apiary I use breeze blocks for stability, strength and durability. Mesh floors and inspection boards (only put into position to check mite drop, not kept permanently fitted) are the norm, standard deep brood box (or for many the jumbo 14 x 12 brood box) sits on the floor assembly, a queen excluder on top of that and honey crop supers above the queen excluder. A no-hole crown board on the top of the supers and finally a weatherproof roof, deep enough to accommodate a rapid feeder or insulation (i use 6" deep roofs with flat top so they can be placed upside down on the ground during inspections and manipulation). You should have the basics to start with that lot although you will need to buy frames and foundation for the brood (dn4 or 14 x 12) and for the supers you will need sn frames and foundation. The brood box normally holds 11 frames plus a dummy board (i never understand why dn frames and foundation are sold in packs of 10). Try to buy your foundation through your association if they operate a bulk buying scheme in the winter months.
Also note it's difficult, even almost impossible to cope with swarm control if you don't have spare hives, frames and foundation. I'd suggest you have at least one, preferably two spare hives to hand before the swarm season starts.
