Prospective students and their families were welcomed and informed about courses, facilities and practical training opportunities available at the college. Visitors gained valuable insights into courses and career pathways offered within the equine industry.
On arrival, visitors were greeted by staff and student ambassadors, keen to showcase life at CAFRE. Introductory sessions led by Programme Managers, Alison Morris and Shelley Stuart, outlined the range of courses, explained entry requirements, and addressed questions from prospective applicants.
The guided campus tour showcased CAFRE’s ‘learning by doing’ ethos. Visitors explored the accommodation, teaching facilities, laboratory and Rider Performance Hub before visiting the newly refurbished indoor arena to watch a polework lesson. They also observed farriery demonstrations and concluded the tour with a visit to the Breeding Unit. The tour gave visitors an insight into how CAFRE’s facilities integrate the latest science, technology and business management practices to prepare students for successful careers in the modern equine industry.
Jane Elliott, Head of Equine at Enniskillen Campus, commented on the event, stating: “At CAFRE we pride ourselves on supporting and developing students throughout their educational journey. They leave us not only with an equine qualification but with the experience and confidence to make a real impact in the equine industry, whether in yards, training, sales, marketing or as entrepreneurs. We hope that by attending an Open Day visitors feel informed about our courses, are impressed by our facilities and are ready to progress an application to study with us.”
The event concluded with discussions with Residential Support, Student Support and Student Finance representatives hearing about support available to CAFRE students.
Programme Manager Shelley Stuart reflected on the day, saying: “Each year we look forward to welcoming potential applicants to Enniskillen Campus for our Open Day. Our courses combine practical experience, academic learning, and professional development. The specialist facilities at Enniskillen Campus support students to gain skills which are highly regarded in the industry.”
Level 3 Equine Management Student Ambassador, Rebecca Lennon remarked: “I was delighted to be selected to show prospective students around the campus and to be able to tell them about what it is like to study here. It was great to meet so many new people and be able to show off the facilities and the horses at Enniskillen Campus.”
Start your Equine career at CAFRE
If you are interested in pursuing an equine career, CAFRE offers Level 2 and Level 3 Further Education courses, for students with GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. Foundation and Honours Degree programmes are available for those with A‑Level, Leaving Certificate or equivalent qualifications. The college offers full‑time, part‑time, apprentice and online study routes to suit a range of learners.
Course details are available at: www.cafre.ac.uk.
Applications are now open for all programmes beginning in September 2027.
9. Welcoming students to Open Day at Enniskillen Campus were Level 3 Equine Management student ambassadors Ava King (Greysteel) and Rebecca Lennon (Hillsborough).
Welcoming students to Open Day at Enniskillen Campus were Level 3 Equine Management student ambassadors Ava King (Greysteel) and Rebecca Lennon (Hillsborough). Photo: DAVID A SCOTT
10. Potential equine students explored the laboratory facilities at Enniskillen Campus.
Potential equine students explored the laboratory facilities at Enniskillen Campus. Photo: DAVID A SCOTT
11. CAFRE Senior Lecturer Shelley Stuart discussed study options with potential students and their parents at the Equine Open Day.
CAFRE Senior Lecturer Shelley Stuart discussed study options with potential students and their parents at the Equine Open Day. Photo: DAVID A SCOTT