Last month, Teesside University became the backdrop for a remarkable celebration as the Newcastle Rugby Foundation held an event to honour the graduates of the Futures programme. This event marked a transformative journey for the participants, who have spent time developing vital personal and professional skills through the Rugby+ Futures programme.

The Rugby+ Futures programme is an initiative created through the collaborative efforts of former Falcons and England rugby player Tony Underwood, Olympian Chris Cook, esteemed coach Lysa Morrison and the dedicated team at Newcastle Rugby Foundation. This innovative programme is designed to equip participants with essential personal characteristics that foster trust-based relationships. By empowering individuals to reach their full potential, the Futures programme helps them become the best versions of themselves.

Futures Manager Jake Van Der Velde and Andy Steedman from Electricity North East warmly welcomed each graduate, presenting them with a certificate to commemorate their achievement. The recognition of their hard work and dedication was met with applause and celebration from all in attendance.

After the presentations, the event transitioned into an interactive session where local businesses from across the region engaged with the recent graduates. This segment allowed the graduates to connect, network, and seek advice from professionals, thereby strengthening their next steps toward their chosen career paths. The support and guidance provided by these businesses were invaluable, offering practical insights and potential opportunities. We would like to thank Electricity North East (ENE), Teesworks Skills Academy, Kier Construction, SeAH Wind, MGL Construction, Cleveland Police and NHS for their support in this.

Jake Van Der Velde, Futures Manager said: “The Summer 2024 Futures Graduation event was a fantastic day celebrating the achievements of all the Futures participants who took part in the programme in Teesside over the past 4 months.

We’d like to thank everyone who came down and made it such a fantastic event and can’t wait to see what the participants go on to achieve in Future.”

Jim Hallas, Customer Solutions Director (ENE) added: “Our sponsorship of and our association with the Futures Programme is something that we are incredibly proud of. 

“The outputs of the scheme are life-changing for the participants and crucially provide companies like us with a very tangible way of reinvesting back into the community across the Tees Valley area”.

For more information about the Futures programme and how it continues to empower individuals to achieve their best, please contact Jake Van Der Velde at jakevandervelde@newcastle-falcons.co.uk.