CAFRE Open Week - Could studying local be your smartest move yet?
Date published:
Choosing where to study is one of the biggest decisions a student can make. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has a compelling offer and invites you to discover the possibilities during its Open Week - Saturday 7 to Friday 13 March 2026.
Book your place to explore study pathways in the agri-food and land-based sectors with courses that are accessible and affordable. Join in guided campus tours and information sessions that will run throughout the week.
CAFRE students have access to specialist teaching and learning facilities at each campus. With campuses situated close to the main towns of Antrim, Cookstown and Enniskillen, nearby bus and train stations allow CAFRE students to commute with ease. For those who drive to college, free on-campus parking is a welcome bonus!
CAFRE offers flexible study options with day students just as welcome as residential ones. You might be living at home with caring responsibilities or juggling studies with running a small family business. At CAFRE, you will find the same level of support and inclusion whether you stay in residence or head home after lectures.
BSc (Hons) Degree in Sustainable Agriculture students, Ellie Murphy and Sarah Walsh are enjoying the best of both worlds balancing campus life with home farm responsibilities. Sarah said: “We were best friends at school and knew we wanted to pursue the same degree pathway at CAFRE after A-Levels. Carsharing to campus means that when not in lectures, we can be home for milking, farm duties and Ellie can look after her horses.”
“First year at college has been exciting. CAFRE staff have been incredibly supportive providing a ‘home from home’ experience that allows time for study and our hobbies. Our days on campus are a mix study and social activities. It means we don’t feel like we’re missing out by not living in residence.”
For those who choose to live on campus, CAFRE’s flexible living options are competitively priced, especially when compared to the soaring costs of city living. Student finance packages are available to help with living expenses, making the transition to college life more manageable. With friendly campus staff always on hand, for those that do feel a bit homesick, there’s no need to book a flight or ferry, home is a short journey away!
For information on the full range of Open Week events from Saturday 7 to Friday 13 March 2026 visit the CAFRE website. For specific course enquiries email: CAFRErecruitment@daera-ni.gov.uk.
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