Equine students receive awards

The event celebrated the hard work and commitment of learners who achieved full-time Level 2 Technical Certificates in Equine Care and Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diplomas in Equine Management. Recognition was also given to part-time students pursuing Level 2 and Level 3 Apprenticeship and online learning pathways, highlighting the breadth of talent developing within the equine sector.

In his address, Mr Paul McHenry, CAFRE Director congratulated: “Each and every one of you. You should be extremely proud of what you have achieved.” He noted: “Of course, few achievements are accomplished alone. I would also like to recognise your parents, guardians, and families and, for those completing Apprenticeship programmes, your employers. They have encouraged and supported you along the way, so today is a special occasion for them too.”

Mr McHenry highlighted the importance of CAFRE’s strong links with the equine sector and acknowledged the valuable partnerships that enhance both education and knowledge transfer at the campus and expressed his gratitude to all industry collaborators.

Senior Lecturer, Shelley Stuart offered congratulations to all students, highlighting top achievers on the full-time programmes. Madison McAfee from Antrim who completed the Level 3 Advanced Technical Extended Diploma in Equine Management received four awards. Kathleen Carolan from Stradone, Co. Cavan, was recognised as the top student on the Level 2 Technical Certificate in Equine Care course and received two awards.

This year the college was delighted to welcome Canon Dr Lydia Brown from the Worshipful Company of Farriers to the event to celebrate the achievement of Farriery learners at the campus.

Laura Magee, a former Enniskillen Campus Equine student delivered an inspiring address to students, sharing her journey through the equine industry.

Laura studied at CAFRE from 2002 to 2006, first completing the Level 3 course before progressing on to the then Higher National Diploma in Equine Management. Laura is the Chief Executive Officer of Horse Country, a tourism initiative in Ireland offering exclusive experiences of the horse industry.

Laura talked of how important connections are, and in industry she collaborates with Failte Ireland, Kildare and Tipperary County Councils and key Irish Equine Industry stakeholders. Laura encouraged the students to consider their futures remarking there’s: “No need to have your entire life mapped out by 21. Be curious. Work hard. Ask questions. Build relationships. Say yes to opportunities that excite you, even when they take you outside your comfort zone… Careers evolve. Sometimes what seems like an ending becomes the start of something you never imagined."

Start your imagination with a Level 2 or Level 3 qualification to demonstrate your knowledge and practical skills needed to pursue a career in the equine sector. On completion of a Level 3 course learners may choose to continue their studies on Ulster University validated Foundation or Honours Degree programmes offered at CAFRE, Enniskillen Campus.

In addition to Level 2 and Level 3 students receiving awards at the event several students were recognised for outstanding accomplishments as they continue their equine studies at CAFRE, Enniskillen Campus.

If you are interested in an equine career, CAFRE offers Further Education courses for those with GCSE or equivalent qualifications, as well as Foundation and Honours Degree programmes for students with A-Level or equivalent qualifications. Course details are available at: www.cafre.ac.uk.

Applications are now open for courses starting in 2027. Thinking college? Imagine studying at Enniskillen Campus.