A year in review at CAFRE
December 31, 2025
As 2025 draws to a close, we reflect on a year marked by innovation, collaboration, and student success across its three campuses. From launching new degrees to hosting industry-leading events, CAFRE has continued to shape the future of land-based education in Northern Ireland.
January – Leading sustainability in Agri-Food with new Degree offering
The year began with a major milestone: the launch of the BSc (Honours) Degree in Sustainable Agri-Food Management at Loughry Campus. This new Ulster University validated degree programme equips students to apply knowledge in primary production to the entire food supply chain, focusing on sustainable land use, crop and livestock management, and ecological systems. Graduates will be well-positioned to take up impactful careers in an industry where sustainability is no longer optional.
February – Apprenticeships took centre stage
During National Apprenticeship Week, CAFRE highlighted how its Apprenticeship programmes span Agriculture, Equine, Food and Drink, Floristry, and Horticulture, offering learners the chance to earn while they learn. Unlike traditional academic routes, Apprentices gain practical experience whilst being guided by experienced professionals in their fields. We showcased success stories from past and present apprentices, many of whom have progressed into permanent roles or management positions.
March – Industry support fuelled students
CAFRE’s Industry Support Programme awarded an impressive £96,000 in bursaries and scholarships to students studying on Degree programmes in Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture. At the presentation event, CAFRE Director Paul McHenry praised the industry partners stating, “The generous support we receive better enables our students to focus on their studies, broaden their skills and ultimately, excel in their chosen fields, helping CAFRE students reach their potential.”
April – Innovation in action
A GrowIN Innovation Competition inspired students to tackle some of the biggest challenges facing the agri-food sector. This year’s competition challenged students to present innovative solutions to issues such as climate change, greenhouse gas reduction, biodiversity conservation, soil health, environmental protection, and food security. The competition culminated in a £5,000 prize fund, rewarding the most forward-thinking concepts. The top prize went to Anna Jackson, a BSc (Hons) Degree in Food Business Management student, for her concept of Feisty Iron Enriched Health Bars.
May – Building sustainable businesses
May focused on strengthening farm businesses through CAFRE’s new Business Sustainability Groups. These groups are designed to help farmers improve profitability and resilience by providing one-to-one advisory support, physical and financial benchmarking, and peer-to-peer learning opportunities. Feedback from participants has been positive, noting that the groups provide not only technical support but also a sense of community and, as one farmer put it, “a bit of craic!”
June – Celebrating the Class of 2025
In June CAFRE’s Graduation Day, celebrated the achievements of students across Higher Education programmes. The Ceremony, held at Greenmount Campus was filled with celebration and reflection by graduates from Ulster University validated degree courses in Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture. Katrina Godfrey, Permanent Secretary at DAERA, chaired the Higher Education ceremony and summed up the event: “Graduation Day is the pinnacle of the academic calendar, a well-earned celebration of your hard work, and determination.”
July – On the World Stage at Royal Portrush
CAFRE Sports Turf students played a key role in maintaining the pristine greens at Royal Portrush Golf Club during the 153rd Open Championship. This world-class event welcomed 278,000 spectators and some of the biggest names in golf, placing CAFRE students at the heart of an international sporting spectacle. Student Jason Chambers described the event as “phenomenal experience and dream come true,” working alongside golf’s biggest names and showcasing CAFRE’s top-class training.
August – Preparation for the new student intake
In August our Schools’ Engagement Team were on hand to answer questions from applicants keen to commence study at CAFRE in September. Our Level 2 and Level 3 programmes provided a route to continue to study after GCSEs. The Ulster University validated Foundation Degree and BSc (Hons) Degree courses in Agriculture, Equine, Food and Horticulture offered university study and living options at CAFRE’s specialist rural campus locations.
September – Spotlight on Upland Farming
September brought the Uplands Open Day to CAFRE’s Hill Farm, a collaborative event with Teagasc that attracted over 260 farmers, researchers, and industry practitioners. The day focused on the unique challenges and opportunities of upland farming, with practical demonstrations and expert-led discussions on topics such as sheep and habitat management, carbon balance in practice, peatland restoration, and cattle and habitat recovery. An exhibition area encouraged engagement between farmers, environmental groups, and policymakers.
October – Opening doors to future students
CAFRE’s Open Week welcomed hundreds of prospective students to Enniskillen Campus, Greenmount Campus and Loughry Campus. Hundreds of prospective students and their families explored CAFRE’s facilities, met lecturers and current students, and discovered the wide range of courses available, from Level 2 programmes to Honours Degrees. Visitors enjoyed guided tours, interactive demonstrations, and information sessions covering all disciplines: Agriculture, Food, Equine, Floristry, Horticulture, Land-based Engineering, and Veterinary Nursing.
November – Driving innovation in Horticulture
Over 50 growers, suppliers, students, and researchers gathered at Greenmount Campus for the Grower’s Gathering event which featured technical talks, Q&A sessions, and hands-on demonstrations aimed at tackling one of the industry’s most pressing challenges: reducing and replacing peat in horticultural production. David Dowd, Head of Horticulture at CAFRE, discussed the new Horticulture Pilot Scheme, which remains open for growers who want to innovate and adapt to sustainable practices.
December – Upskilling the Equine sector
CAFRE rounded off the year by launching its latest Level 3 Award in Business Management for the Equine Sector. This twelve-week course is designed for equine business owners, yard managers, and freelance professionals seeking to upskill and grow their enterprises. The programme will be delivered through a blend of in-person sessions at CAFRE’s Greenmount and Enniskillen campuses, alongside online learning components to provide flexibility for participants.
A year of progress
CAFRE’s 2025 journey reflects its unwavering commitment to education, innovation, and industry collaboration. As we step into 2026, our mission is clear: empowering people, embracing technology, and championing sustainability to support generations to come.