AbbeyAutoline renews CAFRE partnership to support next generation of Northern Ireland farmers

Ian McMaw, Business Lecturer at the College of Agriculture Food & Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) Greenmount Campus and Richard Henderson, Head of Agriculture at AbbeyAutoline.

AbbeyAutoline has reaffirmed its commitment to the future of Northern Ireland’s agricultural industry by renewing its partnership with the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) for the 2025/2026 academic year.

As part of the CAFRE Industry Support Programme, AbbeyAutoline will once again offer students the opportunity to apply for a £1,500 bursary to help support their studies in agriculture and rural enterprise.

AbbeyAutoline, one of Northern Ireland’s leading insurance brokers, provides a comprehensive range of personal and business insurance solutions, with a specialist agricultural team dedicated to serving the farming community. The company’s tailored policies cover farm property, machinery, livestock, and liability, helping to protect farmers against the specific risks faced in the agri-sector.

As part of the renewed partnership, Richard Henderson, Head of Agriculture at AbbeyAutoline, recently visited CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus to deliver a lecture to first- and second-year degree students.

His presentation explored the principles of insurance, the role of agricultural cover, and the importance of risk management within farming businesses.

Ian McMaw, Business Lecturer at CAFRE alongside students Andrew McVeigh, Rachel Macadoo, Penni Martin, Callum McDowell, and Richard Henderson from AbbeyAutoline.

Richard Henderson said:

“AbbeyAutoline is delighted to continue supporting CAFRE and those that represent the future of farming in Northern Ireland. It was fantastic to engage directly with students at Greenmount recently, giving us the opportunity to share insights, offer advice and discuss real-life experiences.

“Through initiatives like our CAFRE bursary offering, we’re committed to supporting the next generation, helping local farmers build businesses that are not only successful but also resilient.”

The partnership aims to strengthen the link between industry and education, ensuring students are well-prepared for real-world challenges in modern agriculture.

Ian McMaw, Business Management Lecturer at CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus, welcomed the continued support from AbbeyAutoline. He said:

“We really value the support of industry partners like AbbeyAutoline and are delighted to be able to offer the dedicated bursary to our students. Hearing directly from professionals about the challenges and opportunities in the agri-business sector helps to inspire and prepare students for life after graduation.

“Students can find more information on the bursary and details about applying on our website.”

For those seeking to protect their agricultural business, AbbeyAutoline’s dedicated farm insurance team can be contacted on 08000 66 55 44 or by emailing farm@abbeyautoline.co.uk.