More than 200 former students of a Twickenham state school have signed up to inspire today’s students to career confidence and academic success.

Orleans Park School in Twickenham is one of a thousand state schools and colleges which have worked with the national education charity Future First to harness the experience of former students to motivate the current generation through ‘old school tie’ networks.

Alumni already volunteering to support current students come from a range of careers including accountancy, the army, business and media. The school wants to contact more former students in work and recent leavers in further education, whether they live nearby or have moved away.

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.

More than 226,000 former students across Britain have already signed up to stay connected with their old school or college. They’re inspiring young people as career and education role models, mentors or e-mentors, work experience providers, governors and fundraisers.

Charlie Cahill, Assistant Headteacher and Head of Sixth Form at Orleans Park School, said: "We have already seen the value that former students can bring to our current cohort. They have been invaluable in raising aspirations and giving advice on possible future pathways after leaving school."

Matt Lent, Chief Executive Officer of Future First said: "Students cannot be what they cannot see. It is vital to open their eyes to opportunities beyond their own world and show them the range of jobs available. Alumni help schools do this by acting as relatable positive role models. If a student sees someone who has the same background has gone on to achieve success, they are far more likely to think they can too.’

Charlie Cahill is waiting to hear from former students on ccahill@orleanspark.school. Former students can also register with Future First by clicking the ‘For Former Students’ link on their website.