A school is appealing for former students to inspire current pupils to future success as part of a mentoring scheme.

Wanstead High School in Redbridge Lane West has registered with charity Future First to set up a network of alumni who can encourage its latest crop of pupils.

Tracey Phillipson, the partnerships co-ordinator at the school in charge of the scheme, said: “A network of past pupils with all their valuable experience will further help us to inspire our students and to make them aware of many exciting career opportunities.

“For our alumni we hope to offer the chance to share the enjoyment of their current careers with an appreciative audience and to keep in touch with what’s happening at the old school.”

Charity boss Alex Shapland-Howes said more than 39 per cent of state school pupils do not know anyone doing the job they dream of doing.

He added: “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.”

Any former pupils can contact Miss Phillipson on t.phillipson@wansteadhigh.co.uk.

They can also sign up to Future First’s alumni scheme via the website www.futurefirst.org.uk and clicking on the 'former students' link.