Offering an insight into the wide range of study opportunities available within these creative and highly skilled sectors staff welcomed prospective learners to explore Greenmount Campus, Antrim.
Senior lecturers welcomed visitors discussing the range of study pathways on offer and emphasising CAFRE’s hands‑on, industry-driven approach to learning.
Following the introduction, attendees were divided into groups and taken on tailored, subject‑focused tours of the campus.
Prospective floristry students began their tour in the Horticulture Centre, where they observed cut flower production areas.
The group then moved to the Floristry Studio to view a selection of arrangements created by students.
Anne Marie Grant and Sherry Suett, floristry lecturers discussed the training, design skills and assessment requirements involved in completing Level 2 and Level 3 Floristry programmes at CAFRE.
Visitors exploring horticulture pathways toured several key facilities across the campus, beginning with the Sports Turf facilities, where staff outlined the specialist skills and modern technology required to maintain high‑quality playing surfaces.
The group then visited the Horticulture Centre, gaining insights into plant production and environmental management.
The tour continued to the Walled Garden, an important teaching space used for plant identification, maintenance and garden design.
Visitors also enjoyed a live landscaping demonstration delivered by Level 3 horticulture students Cameron Gilbert and Ramona McCloskey.
Reflecting on the event, Head of Horticulture Branch, David Dowd, said: “We’re delighted to have welcomed prospective students to Greenmount Campus to view our Horticulture and Floristry facilities and hear about our courses.
"We hope this is the beginning of their journey at CAFRE.
"Whether you’re finishing school or looking for a fresh start, horticulture and floristry offer endless possibilities, in sectors that are evolving rapidly and full of opportunity.
“Our courses give learners the knowledge, confidence and practical experience to step into that future and make a real contribution.
"If you’re curious, motivated and want a career that gets you outdoors, challenges you to keep learning, and lets you see the impact of your work every day, then CAFRE could be your perfect fit.”
CAFRE offers Floristry courses at Level 2 and Level 3, and horticulture courses from Level 2 through to BSc (Hons) Degree level.
With full‑time, part‑time and apprenticeship pathways available, the campus supports school leavers as well as those seeking a career change.
To find out more, visit www.cafre.ac.uk
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Level 3 in horticulture student Cameron Gilbert (Carrickfergus) showed off his skills in landscaping. Cameron recently received a bronze medal at the UK Worldskills Finals. Photo: DAVID A SCOTT 07711541429
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Martin Cleary (Rossnowlagh) and Cian Kirwan (Letterkenny) chatted to horticulture Lecturer, Caitriona McCrudden about pathways in horticulture. Photo: DAVID A SCOTT 07711541429
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Adam Ferguson shared the benefits of studying horticulture at Greenmount Campus with Lynne and Matthew Paul (Castledawson). Photo: DAVID A SCOTT 07711541429
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Laura and Alfie Sterritt from Tandragee chatted to James Crawford about the opportunities available at CAFRE. Photo: DAVID A SCOTT 07711541429