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Apprenticeship Training at CAFRE

February 1, 2025

Discover Apprenticeship training at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE). Apprenticeship training enables those working in the agri-food and land-based sectors to develop skills combining on-the-job learning with educational instruction.

Learners work as apprentices in agriculture, equine, food, floristry, or horticulture, guided by experienced professionals in their fields. This provides them with on-the-job training thus developing their hands-on skills and practical learning. Apprenticeship training at CAFRE is offered at a range of levels and typically takes two years to complete, depending on the qualification. Apprentices will attend training with CAFRE to develop their knowledge through classroom-based and practical education.

Equine Apprenticeship training is available at Enniskillen Campus to support those working in the equine sector. Learners can achieve Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications through attending the college on a block release basis, alongside their employment.

Agriculture, Floristry and Horticulture Apprenticeships are offered at Greenmount Campus, Antrim. Learners enrol on Level 2 or Level 3 training depending on their area of employment.

Floristry and Horticulture learners attend training at Greenmount Campus, one day per week. This training helps them develop their knowledge and skills, complementing their employment.

Agriculture Apprenticeship training is available at Greenmount Campus, Antrim, Enniskillen Campus and various out centres across Northern Ireland. Training in Agriculture is offered one day per week together with employment on a farm setting, which can be on their home farm or an employer’s farm.

Agriculture Apprenticeship learners were presented with their qualifications, achieved through training at Enniskillen Campus with Philip Holdsworth (CAFRE Senior Lecturer) and William Johnston (CAFRE Lecturer).

Food Apprenticeship training at Level 2 and Level 3 is delivered in conjunction with the employer at their business premises. Learners gain practical, hands-on experience, developing the skills required to progress within their business under the supervisor of a mentor. Higher Level Apprenticeships and Degree Apprenticeships in Food and Drink Manufacture are delivered at Loughry Campus, Cookstown. These programmes are taught during periods of block release from the business. They allow staff to further develop knowledge and skills to progress their careers into supervisory and management positions.

Employees from Kerry, Omagh celebrated completing Level 3 Food and Drink Industry Apprenticeship training with CAFRE Lecturing staff Betty McLean and Alison Glover when they received their qualifications at the Loughry Campus Awards Day.

Employees enrolling on the NI Apprenticeship Training programme can help develop their career and benefit from improved job security. Unlike traditional educational pathways, Apprenticeships allow individuals to earn a salary as they learn. Level 2 and Level 3 Apprentices must be employed in a Northern Ireland business for at least 21 hours per week.

If you are interested in securing employment after school an apprenticeship could be the perfect option for you. Apprenticeship training allows you to continue your education, gain practical experience and build confidence. For those who thrive in hands-on learning environments, discover Apprenticeships as an alternative to traditional education pathways.

Join us during Open Week (Tuesday 25 March – Saturday 29 March 2025) at CAFRE to hear more about Apprenticeship training opportunities to build your career through practical experience and education. For more information and to book your place, click here.