KS3 pupils across NI invited to enter Meat4Schools competition

Livestock & Meat Commission September 17, 2025

Key Stage 3 (KS3) pupils in Northern Ireland are being encouraged to put their creativity to the test in this year’s Meat4Schools competition, run by the Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC).

The competition, which is now open for entries, asks pupils to produce a short video reel highlighting the important role of Northern Ireland Farm Quality Assured (NIFQA) beef and lamb as part of a balanced, healthy diet.

Head of Marketing and Communications at LMC, Lauren Patterson said:

“The Meat4Schools competition is designed to support schools by improving access to beef and lamb for use in practical cookery lessons. LMC recognises the crucial role these hands-on sessions play in helping students develop essential, lifelong cooking skills and the confidence to prepare nutritious meals.

“We also want to nurture and encourage pupils who show a genuine interest in cooking and the agri-food sector. To support this, we’ve expanded this year’s competition to include enhanced prizes that give students the chance to engage more deeply with the industry. As part of the experience, pupils will take part in a range of interactive activities designed to give them a taste of the innovation and creativity that our agri-food industry has to offer.”

This year, LMC has expanded the competition prize to further support students and give them a real taste of what the agri-food industry has to offer. As part of the prize, winning pupils will enjoy an all-expenses-paid trip to the Food Innovation Centre at CAFRE’s Loughry Campus. There, they’ll take part in a cookery class in a professional chef-style kitchen and participate in a sensory analysis event comparing beef burgers with plant-based alternatives.

The deadline for entries is 2pm on Tuesday 30 September, and entries must be submitted via the Food4Life website.

For competition details, terms and conditions and entry submissions please visit: https://www.food4life.org.uk/