Did you go to The Hermitage Academy in Chester-le-Street?

If you’re a former student who would like to support current students, the school would love to hear from you!

The school is one of more than 450 state schools across Britain which have registered with the charity Future First to set up networks of former students or alumni.

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 50,000 former students across Britain have already signed up to stay connected with their old school. They’re inspiring young people in a number of ways; as career and education role models, mentors or e-mentors, work experience providers, governors, donors or fundraisers.

“More than 39 per cent of state school students don’t know anyone in a job they’d like to do,” said Alex Shapland-Howes, managing director of Future First. “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.”

Judi Johnson, director of sixth form studies at the Academy said, “We signed up to Future First’s scheme a couple of years ago and our alumni is beginning to grow. . A network of past pupils with all their valuable experience will be vital in helping us to broaden current students’ jobs horizons and equip them for the world of work. We have a history of excellent relationships with our past students and hope that many more will join the scheme.”

Judi is waiting to hear from former students on jjohnson@thehermitageacademy.net

Former students can also sign up to Future First’s alumni scheme by visiting futurefirst.org.uk