CAFRE celebrates International Day of Rural Women

Date published: 12 October 2026

Ellie-May Johnston - BSc (Hons) Sustainable Agriculture

Ellie-May comes from a family beef, sheep and pig fattening farm near Fintona, County Tyrone. "Farming is in my blood, and I can't remember a time in my life when I didn't help my parents on the farm," said Ellie-May.

After completing her A-levels at Omagh Academy, Ellie-May chose to study at CAFRE because it allowed her to continue supporting the family farm while studying. She has particularly enjoyed the practical learning opportunities and says the course has broadened her understanding of the industry, especially through the Animal Welfare and Ethics module.

"We have carried out locomotion scoring, thermal imaging of udders and hooves, monitored cow and calf behaviour and carried out lesion scoring on cows. It gives us practical experience and a deeper understanding of animal welfare."

"I believe through doing what I love, I will never work a day in my life. Farming is more than a job to me, it's a way of life and I couldn't imagine doing anything else. Agriculture is still a male-dominated sector; however, I believe it is important that women continue to inspire future generations to join the industry."

Caroline McConnell - Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Agriculture

Caroline lives on a beef and sheep farm with pedigree Charolais and Limousin cattle, in Muckamore, County Antrim. After completing her GCSEs at Ballyclare Secondary School, Caroline enrolled on the Level 2 Agriculture programme at CAFRE before progressing to Level 3.

"I chose Greenmount Campus because I wanted to expand my knowledge of agriculture through practical learning rather than a classroom-based programme. At CAFRE, I have really progressed my skills and made so many lifelong friends along the way.

"The class I enjoy most is beef because it is an area I am interested in pursuing in the future. I enjoy the livestock handling practicals, working with cattle and sheep on CAFRE's dairy, beef and sheep farms."

As a young woman working within the rural sector, Caroline believes attitudes are continuing to change: "I have always been encouraged to work hard and get things done. There is no job that is just a man's job, and I believe women can do all things just as well."

Zara Simpson - Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Agriculture 

Zara from Hillsborough, joined Greenmount Campus after studying at Dromore High School. She has enjoyed the variety of learning opportunities available at CAFRE.

With a keen interest in the dairy sector, Zara particularly enjoys seeing her studies brought to life through hands-on experience at the Dairy Centre at Greenmount Campus. Zara has enjoyed developing new skills and meeting new people during her time at CAFRE and hopes to pursue a career in animal genetics, with ambitions to one day start her own business.

Zara believes the industry is becoming increasingly welcoming and supportive: "My experience as a woman in the rural sector has been brilliant. I have always been encouraged and empowered to work hard and believe that I can achieve anything I put my mind to. I hope I am showing others that agriculture isn't just for men and that there are fantastic opportunities for women within the industry too."

Sophie Plews - Level 2 Technical Certificate in Agriculture 

Living in Altnagelvin, Sophie does not come directly from a farming background. Inspired by her father, Sophie has gained experience working on both sheep and dairy farms and hopes to become a dairy nutritionist. "I believe studying at CAFRE is the best place to start that journey," she said.

"A day at CAFRE is never dull. It's great to learn by doing while also understanding the theory. I love machinery skills because you get to drive tractors and carry out practical tasks like ploughing and spreading slurry. I’ve gained experience using different kinds of tractors and equipment."

Reflecting on her experiences as a woman in agriculture, Sophie added: "There are some people who don't think women should work in agriculture, but that has never held me back. It surprises a lot of people just how much women are capable of!"

Aimee Taylor - Level 2 Technical Certificate in Agriculture 

Aimee from Curran, outside Magherafelt, grew up around beef cattle and Holstein dairy cows, and always knew she wanted a future within the industry. After completing her GCSEs at Cullybackey College, Aimee chose Greenmount Campus as the step in her education: "CAFRE allows me to learn subjects I enjoy while still working towards my goal of building a career within the agriculture industry. I particularly enjoy Livestock Skills and the Animal Science elements of the course.”

Aimee believes women are helping to challenge outdated perceptions within the sector: "Being a woman in agriculture does mean you get underestimated at times, but I wouldn't change it for the world. It shows that girls can do just as much as boys, if not more!"

The experiences of Ellie-May, Caroline, Zara, Sophie and Aimee demonstrate the passion, determination and ambition of women studying at CAFRE. As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, these students are helping to shape a strong and sustainable future for farming and rural communities.

For those considering a career in agriculture, CAFRE offers a range of full-time and Apprenticeship Level 2 and Level 3 Agriculture programmes, ideal for students progressing from GCSEs. Higher education opportunities include Ulster University-validated Foundation Degree in Agriculture and Technology and BSc (Hons) Degree in Sustainable Agriculture, while those seeking to further develop their leadership and professional skills can progress to the MSc in Strategic Leadership for Agri-Food. 

Whatever your stage, CAFRE has a programme to support your ambitions. Applications for all courses are currently open. To find out more, visit the CAFRE website.