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  • CAFRE celebrates packaging student successes

    Date published: 8 July 2025

    The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) is proud to recognise the outstanding achievements learners in the field of Packaging Technology.

    PIABC Level 5 Diploma students at CAFRE’s Higher Education Graduation Ceremony.

    Thirteen students were awarded the PIABC Level 5 Diploma in Packaging, a globally recognised qualification that supports innovation and excellence in the food, drink, and packaging industries.

    The two-year diploma is designed to equip food professionals with advanced knowledge in packaging principles, materials, and processes. The success of learners highlights CAFRE’s continued support to the industry through aiding professional development, meeting the evolving needs of the food industry.

    Achieving the qualification are a range of graduates from across the packaging and food sectors. They include Anne Bencze (CAFRE), Michael Briggs (Lisburn Council), Richard Dawson (Diageo), Alexandra Henry (CAFRE), Vilma Judiskiene (Avondale), Leah Deehan (Keenan Seafoods), Jade McCleary (MSO), Rachel McFarland (CAFRE), Zoe McKenna (Almac), Kylie Nethery (Linwoods), Patrick Vaughan (Deli Lites), Trudi Webb (Dale Farm) and Jordan White (Smurfit/West Rock).

    CAFRE extends special congratulations to Michael Briggs, who was awarded a prize for achieving the highest overall marks among industry participants.

    CAFRE offers two key qualifications in packaging:

    • PIABC Level 3 Certificate in Packaging – Ideal for those in technical roles or anyone interfacing with packaging processes. This course provides a strong foundation in packaging materials, functions, and sustainability.
    • PIABC Level 5 Diploma in Packaging Technology – Designed for professionals with industry experience who wish to deepen their expertise and enhance their problem-solving and decision-making skills in packaging design, performance, and compliance.

    CAFRE’s packaging test facilities support both education and industry, enabling the development of sustainable and high-performance packaging solutions.

    Interested in advancing your packaging career or exploring our testing capabilities? Contact Adele Dallas, Senior Food Technologist, at:  Adele.dallas@daera-ni.gov.uk.

    Further details can be found on the CAFRE website.

    Notes to editors:

    1. Follow DAERA on X formerly called Twitter and Facebook.
    2. All media queries should be directed to the DAERA Press Office: pressoffice.group@daera-ni.gov.uk or telephone: 028 9016 3460.

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