CAFRE is promoting remaining study opportunities in horticulture and floristry as students consider their options after results, including places available through UCAS Clearing. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise said its Ulster University validated Foundation Degree in Horticulture has Clearing availability. It is also accepting direct applications for a number of other courses.
Direct-entry applications are open for a Level 2 floristry course and for Level 2 and Level 3 horticulture courses, according to CAFRE’s announcement. The options cover both horticulture and floristry, giving prospective students routes at different levels alongside the foundation-degree place available through Clearing.
The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs said Northern Ireland’s horticulture industry employs about 8,000 people and is valued at about £170 million. CAFRE’s courses are being highlighted against that industry backdrop as students decide on education and training options following results.
The Foundation Degree in Horticulture is validated by Ulster University and remains available through the UCAS Clearing process. Students interested in the alternative courses can apply directly to CAFRE for the listed Level 2 and Level 3 study options. The college’s announcement distinguishes between the Clearing route for the foundation degree and direct applications for the floristry and horticulture courses.
The Level 2 floristry provision sits alongside horticulture courses at Level 2 and Level 3. CAFRE has presented these as current application opportunities, rather than as courses requiring a place through UCAS Clearing. The availability of several routes means applicants can consider the course type and application process identified for each option.
DAERA’s estimate of around 8,000 people working in horticulture and an industry value of around £170 million provides the context for the college’s promotion of the courses. Students considering the Foundation Degree in Horticulture can use Clearing, while those interested in the specified floristry and horticulture courses can make a direct application to CAFRE.