A SWINDON secondary school is seeking former students to inspire and motivate the current generation to academic success and career confidence.

Nova Hreod Academy in Akers Way is one of nearly 400 state schools nationwide which have registered with the education charity Future First to set up networks of alumni whose talents they can harness to support today’s students.

Future First’s vision is that every state school or college should be supported by a thriving, engaged alumni community that helps it to do more for its students.

The school is keen to contact former students who left recently for further education, those in established careers, alumni who live nearby and those who have moved away.

Headteacher Darren Barton said: “Students benefit greatly from mentoring and advice from former students and building a network of past pupils with all their valuable experience will be vital in helping us to broaden current pupils’ jobs horizons and equip them for the world of work.”

More than 150,000 former students across Britain have already signed up, inspiring young people as career and education role models, mentors, work experience providers, governors, donors or fundraisers.

Alex Shapland-Howes, managing director of Future First, said: “More than 39 per cent of state school students don’t know anyone in a job they’d like to do.

"If they see that someone who went to the same school, grew up in the same community, has achieved a fulfilling and satisfying job, it helps them see it’s possible for them too.

“It’s really important for all students to be motivated to succeed in the working world and hearing first hand from relatable people in interesting jobs can make a huge difference.”

Former students can contact Nova Hreod careers officer, Jackie Fawcett, on J.Fawcett@novahreodacademy.org.uk or sign up to Future First’s alumni scheme via the website www.futurefirst.org.uk