Hands-On Beef Farming Experience Awaits Year 11s in ABP Angus Challenge

As part of the ABP Angus Youth finalist programme, pupils embark on an international study tour with ABP and Certified Irish Angus. Pictured are the outgoing finalists at the EY Parliament in Brussels earlier this summer.

Northern Ireland’s post-primary schools are being invited to enter their Year 11 pupils into the 2025 ABP Angus Youth Challenge, a prestigious and unique competition that offers young people an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in beef production while developing essential work-life skills.

Organised by agrifood giant ABP in collaboration with Certified Irish Angus, the initiative is designed to inspire the next generation of talent in Northern Ireland’s vital agri-food sector.

Starting on 1 September 2025, teams of two to four pupils aged 14–15 can register for the competition by submitting a short video via the ABP Angus Youth Challenge website.

Entries will close on 3 October, with selected teams invited to showcase their passion and potential at a farm-to-fork exhibition at Balmoral Park later that month.

From there, four finalist teams will be chosen to embark on an extraordinary year-long journey, rearing their own mini-herd of Angus cross calves—valued at approximately £4,000—under the guidance of a CAFRE (College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise) adviser.

George Mullan, ABP’s Managing Director in Northern Ireland, highlighted the competition’s significance:

“The ABP Angus Youth Challenge gives young people a practical insight into the agri-food sector while developing the skills that employers value most. It is about preparing the next generation to take their place in an industry that is vital to Northern Ireland’s economy and sustainable future.”

A hands-on learning experience

The ABP Angus Youth Challenge stands out for its blend of practical and educational elements. Finalist teams will not only rear their mini-herd through to the finishing stage but also sell their cattle to ABP, pocketing the proceeds.

The programme is structured to complement GCSE studies, with assignments focused on sustainable beef farming and food production. Participants gain practical knowledge of the agri-food industry, equipping them with skills that enhance employability in this critical sector.

A highlight for many is the international study tour at the end of the summer term, offering a global perspective on agriculture. Additionally, the competition can contribute towards the skills section of the Duke of Edinburgh or Joint Award, making it an appealing opportunity for pupils seeking to bolster their extracurricular achievements.

The overall winning team, to be announced at an awards ceremony on 23 October 2025 at Logan Hall, Balmoral Park, will secure a £1,000 cheque for their school or club, adding further incentive to participate.

A legacy of success

Now in its latest iteration, the ABP Angus Youth Challenge has earned widespread acclaim, including the Irish News Workplace and Employment Award for Corporate Social Responsibility and Business Eye’s ESG & Sustainability Awards for Best CSR Programme of the Year in 2025.

The competition is open to all Year 11 pupils, regardless of whether they have a farming background, ensuring broad accessibility.

This year’s outgoing finalists include teams from Markethill High School, Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen, and Lecale Trinity Grammar School, Downpatrick. Their achievements will be celebrated at the upcoming awards ceremony, where the 2025 winners will also be revealed.

How to get involved

Pupils interested in participating can find further details and submit their video entries via the ABP Angus Youth Challenge website. For additional information, schools can contact schools@certifiedirishangus.ie.

The competition’s organisers encourage early applications to ensure teams have ample time to prepare for the October exhibition.

With its focus on sustainability, practical skills, and career development, the ABP Angus Youth Challenge offers a transformative experience for Northern Ireland’s young people, fostering a deeper understanding of the agri-food sector’s role in the region’s economy and environmental future.