Make studying local a smart move with CAFRE
Date published:
Thinking about your next steps after school? The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) invites you to explore your options during its Open Week - Tuesday 06 to Saturday 10 October 2026.
Book your place to discover study pathways in the agri-food and land-based sectors with courses that are affordable, accessible and designed to meet real-world industry needs. Join in guided campus tours and information sessions that will run throughout the week.
Choosing where to study is one of the biggest decisions a student will make. CAFRE offers a local advantage with students having access to excellent learning facilities, expert teaching and a supportive environment. With campuses situated close to the main towns of Antrim, Cookstown and Enniskillen, CAFRE is well positioned for students travelling across Northern Ireland. While public links vary by campus, many students find commuting straightforward. For those who drive, free on-campus parking adds extra convenience.
Recognising that residential accommodation isn’t for everyone, CAFRE offers flexible study options with day and residential students equally welcome. You might be living at home with caring responsibilities or juggling studies to help with a family business. At CAFRE, you will find the same level of support and inclusion whether you stay overnight or head home after lectures.
“Staying local and studying at CAFRE has been the perfect choice for us,” say Food Degree students Olivia Acheson and Ellen Nelson. “After completing the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Food Technology and Nutrition, we wanted to progress to degree level study without the expense and stress of relocating.”
First year BSc (Hons) Food Innovation Management friends say: “We don’t feel like we are missing out by not living on campus, if anything, the ease of the daily campus commute allows time for hobbies, studies and leaves a little extra money in our pockets!”
For those who choose to live on campus, CAFRE’s flexible living options are competitively priced with student finance packages are available to help with living expenses, making the transition to student life more manageable. With no need to book a flight or ferry, home is a short journey away.
For information on the full range of Open Week events visit: www.cafre.ac.uk/events/. For specific course enquiries email: CAFRErecruitment@daera-ni.gov.uk
Notes to editors:
- Photo caption: Left to right: BSc (Hons) Food Innovation Management students, Olivia Acheson, Cookstown, and Ellen Nelson, Tobermore, along with Mr. Fintan McCann, Head of Food Education invite you to attend CAFRE’s Open Week from Tuesday 06 October to Saturday 10 October 2026 at Loughry Campus, Cookstown, Greenmount Campus, Antrim and Enniskillen Campus. www.cafre.ac.uk/events
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