School looks to past to bolster the future

The school, in The Boulevard, Durrington, is one of more than 500 state schools across the country to have registered with charity Future First.

The group’s vision is that every secondary school should be supported by a thriving community that helps the school do more for current students.

Karen Purser, the school’s community and enterprise manager, said Durrington High did not hesitate to sign up to the scheme.

“A network of former students, with all their valuable experience, will be vital in helping us to broaden current students’ jobs horizons and equip them for the work of work,” she added.

Across Britain, more than 50,000 former students have signed up to stay connected with their old schools.

Former students can inspire the students of today in a number of ways, including as career and education role models, a mentors – in person or online, as work experience providers, donors, governors and fundraisers.

For former students to take part, it does not matter when they left the school, in what line of work they are now in or whether they still live nearby.

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 would like to do.

“If they see that someone who went to the same school and who grew up in the same community has achieved a fulfilling and satisfying job, it helps them see it is 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.”

Any former pupils interested in getting involved at Durrington High School should send an email to Karen Purser, at [email protected]

Former pupils can also sign up to Future First’s alumni scheme by logging on to the website www.futurefirst.org.uk

Information for teachers from other schools who would like to find out more is also available on the Future First website.