ABP is once again calling on pupils starting Yr. 11 to step up for the new ABP Angus Youth Challenge. Teams of two-four individuals have the chance to win an opportunity of a lifetime that includes a rare chance to gain hands-on experience of sustainable beef production with their own mini-herd of Angus cross calves and valuable work-life skills.

Organised by ABP in partnership with Certified Irish Angus, teams can represent a school, club or society in the competition. Following successful participation at a farm-to-fork exhibition this October, four teams will then be shortlisted to enter the finalist’s programme. They will be awarded a mini herd of Angus cross calves, valued at approximately £4,000, to rear through to finishing stage. Guided by a CAFRE adviser, finalists will then sell their finished cattle to ABP and pocket the proceeds from their sale.

The finalist programme runs for a year and is designed to complement GCSE studies with teams working on assignments relating to sustainable beef farming and food production. The programme equips participants with practical knowledge of food production and strengthens skills required to secure employment in the agri-food sector including interviews skills from Business in the Community’s Barclays LifeSkills Team.

Entry is by way of a short video submission via the ABP Angus Youth Challenge website. Selected entries will then be invited to an exhibition day at Balmoral Park later in October, where a judging panel will select the finalists. The overall winning team will also secure a £1,000 cheque for their school or club.

George Mullan, ABP’s Managing Director in Northern Ireland, said: “The ABP Angus Youth Challenge gives young people a practical insight into the agri-food sector while developing the skills that employers value most. It is about preparing the next generation to take their place in an industry that is vital to Northern Ireland’s economy and sustainable future.”

The competition is open to all 14–15-year-olds, regardless of a farming background and participation can also count towards the skills section of the Duke of Edinburgh/Joint Award. It has been recognised with several awards including the Irish News Workplace and Employment Award for Corporate Social Responsibility and Business Eye’s ESG & Sustainability Awards for Best CSR programme of the Year in 2025.

Further details on how to enter can be obtained by contacting: schools@certifiedirishangus.ie or visiting the ABP Angus Youth Challenge website.