Our Fifth Year students, Grace and Emer, recently took part in an incredible and enriching Study Trip as part of their involvement in the Certified Irish Angus Schools Competition Final. This prestigious national competition challenges students to explore the journey of food from “farm to fork,” with a strong focus on sustainability, animal welfare, and innovation within the agri-food industry. As finalists, Grace and Emer are among a select group of students nationwide who will rear Irish Angus calves over an 18-month period while completing a detailed research project. As part of reaching the final, they were invited to take part in this exclusive study trip, designed to give students a deeper understanding of the agri-food industry both in Ireland and abroad.

On Day 1 of their study trip, the students visited Tesco HQ, where they presented their product ideas and engaged with leaders from technical, marketing, sustainability, and buying teams. They also took part in a sensory analysis comparing Certified Irish Angus Beef products. Later, at Airfield Estate, they presented to Bord Bia officials and participated in the Musgrave’s Steak Challenge, where Grace and her partner Emily (Abbey Community College) were announced as winners. Day 2 included a visit to Teagasc Grange, where they met leading researchers and explored facilities focused on efficient and sustainable beef production. They then travelled to Hilton Foods in Drogheda for a behind-the-scenes look at food production and packaging before flying to Brussels. On Day 3, the students visited the European Parliament, learning about EU decision-making and discussing their projects with representatives. They also met agricultural leaders at the IFA office and visited a family-run farm to explore sustainable farming practices.                                                                                                                                                                              Days 4 and 5 continued the agricultural focus, with visits to an innovative dairy farm and a veal farm in Holland, where students explored modern technologies, sustainability practices, and animal welfare. The trip also included time in Bruges, allowing students to experience the culture of this historic city.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience has provided invaluable insight into the agri-food industry, while also helping students develop skills in research, communication, and enterprise.

A sincere thank you to their teacher Mr. Doyle,  the Certified Irish Angus Producers Group, as well as Kepak and ABP, for their support and organisation of this incredible opportunity.

Fingal County Enterprise Finalists

We would like to extend our sincere congratulations to the seven Mini Companies who represented our school at the Fingal County Enterprise Final today. Their creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial spirit were evident throughout the competition, and they showcased their ideas with great confidence. A special word of praise goes to ‘Navy Candles’, who achieved an outstanding second place in the Junior category. This is a fantastic accomplishment and a testament to their hard work, teamwork, and dedication in developing a high-quality product.

We are especially delighted to celebrate the success of ‘Tiny Terrariums’, who were awarded first place in the Intermediate category. Their innovative concept, strong presentation, and clear business potential truly impressed the judges. As a result of their win, they will now go on to represent Fingal at the National Student Enterprise Final in May, an incredible opportunity and a well-deserved recognition of their efforts.

All seven Mini Companies should be extremely proud of their achievements. Taking part in this competition requires commitment, creativity, and resilience, and each group has demonstrated these qualities throughout their journey.

We wish ‘Tiny Terrariums’ the very best of luck as they prepare for the national stage, and we look forward to seeing what all of our young entrepreneurs achieve in the future.