There’s still time to enter the 2022-2023 ABP Angus Youth Challenge up until noon on 3rd October 2022. Our skills development programme for pupils in Year 11/14-15 year olds has recently become Business in the Community’s ‘Best Education Partnership’ Winner for 2022.
A mini-herd of Angus cross calves to rear worth c.£3,500 is part of the package of prizes for all those that reach the final stage of the ABP Angus Youth Challenge along with a study tour. This year’s tour featured a farm-to-fork work inspiration experience to ABP Belgium. It kicked off at Lismullin cookery school with ABP Ireland and Kettyle Irish Foods.
The competition is aligned to learning outcomes in a range of GCSE subjects to support attainment. It gives teenagers who reach the final stage direct experience and skills in beef production. The teams that make it to the final stage are assigned a Mentor from the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise to support their work on research assignments whilst they rear their calves. They are also given professional training in communication, presentation and interview skills to help prepare them for the world of work.
After submitting an entry, a selection of teams will then be invited to take part in an exhibition event at Balmoral Park. An independent panel will judge the teams’ performance at the exhibition to determine who goes through to the finalist programme and wins the prizes. At the end of the final stage an overall winning team will also be presented with a cheque for £1,000 for their club or school.
Commenting on the ABP Angus Youth Challenge to date and its most recent success at the 2022 Responsible Business Awards, ABP’s Managing Director in Northern Ireland George Mullan said, “we are delighted that the Business in the Community judges have recognised the impact that this initiative is having on young people. It is an integral part of our commitment to sustainable beef production in Northern Ireland. We know that it is helping young people succeed in their aspirations to work in our sector because they and their teachers are providing the proof points.”
Meanwhile teams from Banbridge Academy; Dalriada School Ballymoney; Cookstown High School; Friends’ School Lisburn; St Kevin’s College Lisnaskea; St Catherine’s Armagh, Newtownhamilton High School are due to complete their finalist programme in October when the award winners will be announced.
Entering and taking part in the ABP Angus Youth Challenge can now be used as part of the skills section of the Duke of Edinburgh/Joint Award.
For competition queries contact schools@certifiedirishangus.ie