Fermanagh Students Shaping Their Future Through Food at CAFRE Loughry Campus
May 1, 2026
Two students from County Fermanagh are proving that a passion for food can open the door to exciting career opportunities, as they study Level 3 Extended Diploma Food courses at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus.
The students, pictured at the food technology facilities, are currently enrolled on Level 3 programmes which are designed to equip learners with the practical skills, scientific knowledge and industry experience needed to succeed in Northern Ireland’s thriving agri-food sector.
CAFRE Loughry Campus is recognised for excellence in food education, offering specialist training in food science, technology, nutrition and product development. The Level 3 courses provide an important stepping stone for students who wish to progress into higher education, or apprenticeships within the food industry.
For the two Fermanagh students, Katelynn Henderson from Lisbellawand and Yaroslav Tkachenko from Derrylin, the course has offered a unique blend of hands-on learning and real-world insight. From food safety and quality assurance to product innovation and sustainability, students gain experience that reflects industry standards.
“The practical side of the course has been a real highlight,” said Katelynn. “We’re not just learning theory — we’re working in purpose built food production facilities, science laboratories, developing products and understanding how food businesses operate from farm to fork.”
Loughry Campus boasts specialist laboratories, pilot-scale food processing facilities and expert teaching staff with strong links to the agri-food industry. These connections allow students to engage with employers, visit local food businesses and hear directly from professionals working across the sector.
According to Yaroslav, the supportive learning environment is a definite advantage.
“Everyone here shares the same interest in food and where it comes from. The tutors are very approachable and really encourage you to think about your future career.”
After a recent parents’ event Katelynn’s mum was keen to share her thoughts.
“We are delighted how Katelynn has totally embraced attending Loughry. She loves it and we couldn’t ask for anything better from a parents ‘ perspective. Student support has been fantastic and she is excited about getting out on placement this summer. Katelynn thoroughly enjoys the social menu that Loughry has to offer ranging from bingo, table quizzes, wreath making, themed events as well as a wide variety of industrial visits that they have been able to avail of. She totally embraces herself in Campus life and enjoys the additional educational opportunities Loughry has to offer such as attending a Certificate in Manufacturing Operations course on a Wednesday afternoon which will enhance her CV. She plays an active role in the Student Representative Council and has also successfully completed her driving test which she did whilst living away from home in Cookstown. The transition to Loughry was hassle free for us as parents and the course structure suits Katelynn as she thrives with coursework and practicals”.
CAFRE’s Level 3 Food courses attract students from across Northern Ireland, reflecting the importance of the agri-food sector to rural communities. For students from counties like Fermanagh, the courses offer an opportunity to develop specialist skills while remaining connected to the farming and food heritage of their local area.
The majority of graduates from this programme progress onto higher education at CAFRE.
As the agri-food industry continues to grow and innovate, CAFRE Loughry Campus remains at the heart of training the next generation of skilled professionals. For these two Fermanagh students, the journey has already begun — and the future looks full of opportunity.
The food industry needs fresh talent with food qualifications to enhance innovation and promote sustainability. If you or someone you know thrives in a team environment, seeks a non-desk-bound career, enjoys practical problem-solving, values travel opportunities, and desires a challenging yet rewarding career with promising job prospects, consider study at Loughry Campus. The college offers full-time and part-time Food courses from Level 2 Apprenticeships through to BSc (Honours) Degree courses. Find out more here.