Gibson Trust support for CAFRE agriculture student study tours

Date published: 21 October 2026

The Gibson Trust is a registered charity established to commemorate the life of William Gibson. Born in 1840 near Dromore, County Down, Mr Gibson trained as a watchmaker before developing successful businesses in Belfast and London. Upon his death in 1913, he left funds to support eligible farmers in Counties Antrim and Down. For more than a century, Trustees have carefully managed the fund in accordance with his wishes.

In May 2027, final year students studying the Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Agriculture programme will undertake a series of study tours made possible through financial assistance from The Gibson Trust. The funding will help reduce costs and ensure as many students as possible can participate in this valuable educational experience.

The 52 participating students will be divided into three groups and travel to England, Scotland and Wales, accompanied by CAFRE staff. Students will have the opportunity to visit a variety of progressive farming businesses, giving them the chance to observe different production systems, management practices and business approaches first-hand.

Dr Kate Semple, Head of Agriculture Further Education at CAFRE, said: “Study tours provide students with invaluable opportunities to see classroom learning applied in real-world situations. By visiting a wide range of agricultural businesses, our students gain a broader understanding of the industry, while also developing important personal and professional skills. The tours provide an excellent conclusion to their time at CAFRE and help prepare them for future careers within the agricultural sector.”

The visits enable students to engage directly with farmers, industry professionals and business owners. Through discussions and farm tours, they have the opportunity to gain insights into the challenges and opportunities facing modern agriculture, while learning how successful businesses are adapting to meet changing market, environmental and technological demands.

The tours will provide a valuable opportunity for the students to broaden their understanding of agriculture beyond Northern Ireland. By visiting different parts of Great Britain, students will be able to observe how geography, climate and local markets influence farming systems and business decisions, giving them a wider perspective on the industry.

The tours encourage students to interact with peers they may not regularly work alongside during their studies. Shared experiences throughout the week will help strengthen friendships and foster a greater sense of community among the group.

“We are extremely grateful to The Gibson Trust for its continued support of our Agriculture students,” added Dr Semple. “Their contribution has enabled students to benefit from experiences that will remain with them long after they complete their studies. The learning, professional contacts and personal development gained through the tours are invaluable.”

CAFRE would like to thank The Gibson Trust for its ongoing commitment to supporting the next generation of agricultural professionals and helping students maximise the opportunities available during their time at Greenmount Campus.

If you are interested in studying Agriculture at CAFRE, or know someone who is, visit the CAFRE website to explore the range of programmes available.