Abbie Gillanders – CAFRE student profile

My name is Abbie Gillanders and I am from Craigavon. After I completed my GCSE’s at the Royal School in Dungannon I decided to study at CAFRE. I am currently studying the Level 3 Diploma in Food Technology and Science .

I heard about CAFRE and the range of courses they offer at their Loughry campus in Cookstown, from a family member. I was seeking a study route that offered an equivalent to A level’s but was more vocational. When I started to research what study options CAFRE could offer me, I discovered a very interesting range of Level 3 courses that offered an interesting equivalent to A level study. I was particularly attracted to the Level 3 Food Diplomas as they opened up a range of pathways for progressing to Higher Education or going into the world of work. I was particularly interested in the practical aspects of these courses.

I am really enjoying my course at Loughry. In particular, the opportunities I have to participate in food technology and science practical’s, and to visit different food manufacturing companies, help me to understand the theory covered in the classroom. I also like the fact that on this course there are no exams and all assessments are coursework based. This type of assessment really suits my learning style.

I have just commenced a 12 week paid work placement within the food industry. I am really excited about this opportunity to apply my learning to the world of work and develop my skills further. I am also looking forward to returning to Year 2 of my course at Loughry as many of the units I will be studying look very interesting.

After I complete this qualification, I hope to continue my studies at Loughry and enrol on either the Higher Level Apprenticeship in Food and Drink Manufacture with an employer or on a full time Food Degree programme. The food industry employes over 25,000 people so I know that by furthering my education with a Degree level qualification at Loughry I can enhance my knowledge and skills even further and increase the career opportunities that will be available to me in the future.

I advise anyone who is considering enrolling with CAFRE and studying a Level 3 Diploma in Food after completing their GCSE’s to ‘go for it’. CAFRE, Loughry Campus provides many great opportunities to their students for learning and developing their skills, and there are a lot of career options available after completing their food qualifications.