The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) at Loughry Campus celebrated the achievements of students completing their studies. This year, 39 Further Education Food students received awards at an awards ceremony at the Cookstown Campus.
Delivering his report as Head of Food Education, Mr Fintan McCann noted that: “All the students being awarded Extended Diploma qualifications are progressing on to Higher Education courses at CAFRE. The learners are continuing their studies on BSc Honours Degrees, Foundation Degrees, Higher Level Apprenticeships, and the new Food and Drink Academy. This demonstrates to me the strong student satisfaction our learners have in our programmes. We are delighted they have a great ambition to succeed.”
Mr Paul McHenry, CAFRE Director applauded the Level 2 and Level 3 Food and Drink Apprentices who were being recognised for their achievements. “Apprentices here today are employed in leading companies including ABP Linden Foods, Dunbia, Kettyle Irish Foods, and Lakeland Dairies.”
Seven students also earned a Certificate in Manufacturing Operations, awarded alongside their Extended Diploma qualification. Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Prizes were awarded to Rachel Moore and Eloise Ruddell for academic excellence. ‘Earn as you learn’ Apprenticeship programmes enable those working in NI food businesses to attain a formal qualification, alongside developing knowledge and practical skills. “This year top Apprenticeship DAERA awards go to Mark Connolly, a Level 3 Apprentice working with Kettyle Irish Foods and Norest Joka, a Level 2 Apprentice with Dubia,” reported Mr McCann.
Level 3 student Lucy Wylie from Dungannon delivered the student vote of thanks. She made special mention of the fantastic encouragement the students had received during their time at Loughry Campus from teaching and support staff.
Rachel Moore from Portglenone was honoured as one of the top performing students at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) following a standout academic year. Rachel achieved the highest possible grade of Triple Distinction Star (DDD*) in her OCN NI Level 3 Extended Diploma in Food Technology and also received a Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) Prize for academic excellence.
Students receiving qualifications from Loughry Campus are well positioned for exciting career opportunities in an industry that adapts to innovation, sustainability, automation and health.
Congratulations to all learners at CAFRE.
