YFCU Expands Schools’ Club Programme with new club development at Loreto College, Coleraine

The Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster (YFCU) are delighted to announce the establishment of a new Schools’ Club at Loreto College Coleraine, further expanding opportunities for young people to engage with YFCU and learn more about Northern Irish agriculture and rural life.

Located on the Castlerock Road in Coleraine, Loreto College is a co-educational voluntary grammar school serving young people aged 11-18. The new club will provide pupils with an opportunity to enhance their agricultural understanding and increase their knowledge on food production, all while developing valuable skills through practical, educational and social activities. The club also provides a link between the school and the wider YFCU network, allowing pupils to find out more about the organisation and the opportunities available to its members. The club is being supported within the school by Teacher Ms Becca Barnard, who will help lead and develop the club alongside YFCU.

Roberta Simmons, Membership Development Manager with YFCU, said, “as the leading rural youth organisation for young people here in Northern Ireland, we are delighted to see the establishment of another school’s club and to welcome the pupils into the wider YFCU family. School clubs are an exciting development for YFCU and help us to engage with young people at an earlier stage, allowing them to explore the opportunities available to members and to reap the benefits while they are young. People don’t often realise what YFCU can offer, but it is so much more than just agriculture. Members develop their confidence and skills through a range of competitions, have their voices heard and build new friendships, as well as availing of incredible travel opportunities”.

Ms Becca Barnard, the Teacher responsible for the Club at Loreto College commented, “I am so excited about our new agri-club here at Loreto College. It is a great opportunity for our pupils to get involved in something new, develop their skills, meet new people and learn more about the opportunities available within the agricultural industry with the support of the YFCU body. I look forward to watching the club grow and to support our pupils as they get involved”.

The establishment of the new club forms part of YFCU’s wider commitment to creating opportunities for young people in schools and strengthening the pathway into the organisation. Through these school clubs, pupils can gain experience and knowledge through activities in relation to agriculture, food production, rural life, personal development and career opportunities, while also having the opportunity to connect with their local Young Farmers’ Clubs.