A HILLINGDON secondary school is seeking former students who can inspire academic success and career confidence in the current generation.

Swakeleys School for Girls, an academy with sixth form based in Clifton Gardens, wants to set up a network of alumni whose talents they can harness to support today’s students.

It one of nearly 400 state schools across Britain to have registered with the education charity Future First.

Swakeleys head of sixth form Andy Hull said: “We signed up to Future First’s scheme straightaway.

“A network of past students with all their valuable experience will be vital in helping us to broaden current students’ job horizons and equip them for the world of work.”

More than 100,000 former students across Britain have already signed up to stay connected with their old school.

They are inspiring young people in different ways such as career and education role models, mentors or e-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 get in touch via office@swakeleys.org.uk or by calling 0207 239 8933.