BCT FUTURES EMPLOYMENT PROGRAMME

A 12-week programme delivered by the Blues Charitable Trust, helping young people step confidently into sustained employment

ABOUT THE PROGRAMME

BCT Futures is a 12-week employment readiness programme designed for young adults aged 18–24 currently receiving Jobseeker Support.

Delivered by the Blues Charitable Trust (BCT) in partnership with MSD, the programme supports participants by blending foundation workshops, weekly coaching, and guided learning. Participants build confidence and develop job-ready skills to transition into meaningful and sustainable employment.

Rosey Nathan | Early Career & Development Manager, BCT

HOW IT WORKS

BCT as featured on Sky Sport and Seven Sharp below

  • Workshops: Two foundation day workshops at Blues HQ set the tone. Participants experience a high-performance environment that builds self-leadership, workplace readiness, and motivation.

  • Weekly coaching: Ongoing one-to-one or small-group sessions focus on CVs, interviews, career planning, and job search skills. Coaches integrate sports psychology techniques to build resilience, confidence, and focus; tools proven in elite sport and adapted for real-world workplaces.

  • Transition to employment: Participants are supported through applications, employer introductions, and preparation for workplace expectations, ensuring they move confidently into work.

  • Referral process: MSD case managers refer clients through internal channels. Once referred, participants complete a short Microsoft Form and screening interview with BCT. This confirms eligibility and motivation, protects the mana of the environment, and ensures those ready to commit are enrolled. Intake and/or feedback is provided directly to MSD.

WHY BCT FUTURES AND HOW THIS PROGRAMME IS DIFFERENT

BCT Futures is more than an employment course; it is a carefully designed experience that combines the mana of the Blues environment with proven youth development expertise. Every participant is invited into a high-expectation setting where commitment, self-motivation, and personal accountability are essential.

  • Strategic screening and selection: Entry is by referral and screening only. This ensures participants are ready to engage, uphold the mana of the environment, and benefit from the opportunity. The process values potential, motivation and willingness to grow as much as current skills, and helps ensure the programme delivers meaningful results for both participants and employers.

  • High-performance principles applied to employment: The programme uses sports psychology techniques to build resilience, confidence, and focus. These tools are proven in elite sport and adapted for the workplace, helping young adults develop the mindset needed to thrive.

  • Independent but connected: BCT is a not-for-profit trust, separate from The Blues organisation. We harness the best of the Blues environment while remaining grounded in community, inclusivity, and accessibility.

  • More than rugby: While the programme draws inspiration from high-performance sport, it is not limited to athletes. It is designed for young people from all backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of Tāmaki Makaurau.

  • Trusted employer pathways: With established relationships in logistics, infrastructure, hospitality, and services, BCT Futures creates real opportunities for work. Employers recognise the credibility of participants who complete the programme.

  • Proven foundations: Futures builds on the BCT Flagship leadership programme, which since 2022 has supported over 3,000 rangatahi and is trusted by schools, employers, and whānau.

OUR KEY FACILITATORS

OUR MISSION

We believe every young person deserves the tools and support to navigate life’s challenges and reach their full potential. BCT’s mission is to build leadership and well-being to bridge the gap between school, community, and career, empowering rangatahi to make informed choices that lay the foundation for lifelong success. 

OUR VALUES

We are guided by the values of Manaakitanga (Service), Taumatatanga (Excellence), Whakaiti (Humility), Whānaungatanga (Quality Partnerships), and Mahi Kotahitanga (Teamwork). These values shape everything we do – bringing together diverse groups of rangatahi to grow through shared experiences. We champion a future where youth have access to opportunity, strong role models, and a clear sense of purpose.

BCT FUTURES GOALS

Empower Leadership
Build self-leadership, confidence, and personal accountability so participants can step into work environments with resilience and clarity.

Support Career Pathways
Provide practical tools including CVs, interview skills, job search planning, LinkedIn networking, and personalised coaching, connecting participants directly with trusted employer networks.

Champion Well-Being and Resilience
Strengthen mental, emotional, and physical readiness for the transition into work, helping participants not only gain but also sustain employment. 

Deliver measurable outcomes
In line with MSD requirements, ensure participants develop up-to-date CVs, successfully complete the programme, and progress into meaningful and sustained employment.