Congratulations to Aughnacloy College, Co. Tyrone, who have claimed the top prize in the prestigious ABP Angus Youth Challenge. Jack Steenson and Alexander Smith were named overall winners, beating three other finalist teams in the 2024 final. The challenge equips young people with practical skills in sustainable beef production while encouraging innovative thinking for the future of the industry.

As finalists, the students were awarded a mini-herd of Angus cattle to rear, which served as a hands-on learning experience whilst developing projects about beef production. Jack and Alexander’s project focused on "passing on a vibrant farming culture to future generations." Their unique initiative culminated in the creation of a rhyming children’s storybook, illustrated with contributions from 12 local primary schools, designed to educate young readers about sustainable farming practices.

At an awards ceremony in the Logan Hall Jack and Alexander were presented with the ABP Angus Youth Challenge Cup and a £1,000 cheque for their school by representatives of ABP, Certified Irish Angus and the Department of Agriculture, the Environment and Rural Affairs. Runners up in the competition were Dromore High School. Sarah Gilchrist from St. Colmcille’s won the award for Outstanding Individual Achievement.