Appeal to help inspire school pupils

Former pupils at a Sunderland Academy are being asked to go back to the classroom to inspire current students.

The students past and present from Southmoor Academy has joined a programme run by the national education charity Future First which helps state schools and colleges develop ‘old school tie’ networks – allowing them to harness the talents and experience of alumni to support the current generation. The former students will return to volunteer at assemblies and workshops designed to motivate young people and broaden their jobs horizons so they are more likely to be able to achieve a career of their choice.

Simon Wareham, director of careers at Southmoor Multi Academy Trust, said: “We know that many of our former students have gone on to have very successful careers and we hope that they would like to support the next generation of young people.

“With the opening of our current Sixth Form in 2014, we have been looking for some time to set up an Alumni scheme, 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.”

Beth Goddard, Future First director of programmes, said: “Alumni volunteers can share their experience, broaden students' jobs horizons and act as relatable role models.”

Southmoor Academy con be contacted on 0191 594 9991 or email at info@southmoormat.co.uk

To register with Future First, go to www.futurefirst.org.uk