Marvin OnumonuThe College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) is encouraging school leavers studying for A-Level or equivalent qualifications to apply for its Food and Drink Academy.
The Academy is a four-year higher level apprenticeship programme, combining university-level study with paid employment in a Northern Ireland food and drink business.
Learners study at Loughry campus for a BSc (Hons) degree in food and drink manufacture as part of the higher-level apprenticeship, validated by Ulster University.
Learners are employed from day one with a salary of £22,000 per year.
They attend the CAFRE four days a week during the first academic year.
There are no academic fees to be paid by the learner.
The programme combines employment and academic study to help learners build confidence and professional skills, with potential to move into managerial roles.
Fintan McCann (pictured, right), head of food education at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), said: “The Food and Drink Academy is about unlocking potential.
“We want young people to gain the confidence, skills and the industry insight they need for management careers in one of Northern Ireland’s most innovative and exciting sectors.
“This programme gives learners the chance to experience innovation, develop key knowledge and skills, and take their first steps towards becoming future leaders in a food and drink business.”
The CAFRE is encouraging school leavers ready to take their next step to submit applications to the Food and Drink Academy before 20th February 2026.
