Building future leaders through Food HLAs at CAFRE

Date published: 29 January 2026

Shortly after completing her A‑Levels, Edith joined Pilgrim’s Europe as a Consumer Relations Assistant based at their Craigavon site. Motivated by curiosity and a desire to understand more about food safety and factory operations, she progressed quickly, securing the role of Food Safety and Quality Auditor within her first year.

Eager to deepen her technical expertise, Edith enrolled on CAFRE’s HLA in Food and Drink Manufacture. Her decision was encouraged by her manager, who had recently completed the same programme and shared its value with her. While balancing shift work with academic study can be challenging, Edith embraced the opportunity with determination and strong motivation.

Now in her third year of study, Edith recognises the impact of Apprenticeship training on her professional growth, particularly in strengthening her technical competence and decision‑making skills. “Before starting the HLA, I had limited understanding of operations. Studying each module has helped me understand why things are done the way they are. In particular, the food microbiology module has given me confidence in interpreting microbiological results and making decisions on product integrity and safety,” she explains.

Edith’s commitment to learning has supported her rapid career development. She was recently promoted to Food Safety and Quality Manager within Pilgrim’s Europe, a significant achievement that reflects both her technical ability and her leadership potential. In this role, Edith has taken ownership of a major shelf‑life optimisation project aimed at extending product life, reducing waste, enhancing site performance and ultimately improving sustainability within the factory. 

Edith credits the HLA with helping her prepare for her new responsibilities. “The course has really offered me the opportunity to progress within the Technical department, as it combines new knowledge with the skills I gain at work. Meeting other Apprentices from different companies, during training at CAFRE has been beneficial; we learn so much from each other.”

Pilgrim’s Europe also recognises the value of the HLA programme for both Edith and the wider business. Kyle Saunderson, Senior Food Safety and Quality and Manager commented, 

“The HLA has been instrumental in Edith’s development, supporting her in building strong technical capability and enabling her recent promotion to Food Safety and Quality Manager. Edith has led key initiatives including projects on microbiological shelf life testing. She consistently demonstrates confidence, accountability, and clarity in her approach. Apprentices like Edith add real value to our business by bringing fresh thinking, practical skills, and a collaborative mindset. Investing in Apprenticeship training helps us grow our future leaders and strengthens the long-term capability of our teams.” 

Looking ahead, Edith hopes to continue her learning by progressing on to the Level 6 Higher Level Apprenticeship later this year. This pathway will allow her to attain a BSc (Hons) Degree in Food and Drink Manufacture and support her long‑term ambition of further advancement within food safety and quality management.

If you are interested in attaining a qualification to support your career progression, discover more about Apprenticeship training with Loughry Campus. Training is offered from Level 2 to Level 6 in Food and Drink Manufacture. For information visit the CAFRE website.