A DORCHESTER school is looking for former students to help inspire the next generation.

The Thomas Hardye School is one of 400 state schools and colleges across the country teaming up with the education charity Future First to harness the talents and experience of alumni to support today’s students through ‘old school tie’ networks.

The school is keen to contact former students who left recently for further education as well as those in established careers and vocations, alumni who live nearby and those who 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 do more for its students.

More than 150,000 former students across Britain have already signed up to stay connected with their old school.

The charity aims to inspire young people as career and education role models, mentors, work experience providers, governors, donors and fundraisers.

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

"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."

Notable former pupils at the Thomas Hardye School include athlete Serita Shone, who became a member of the Great Britain's women's bobsleigh team, European taekwondo champion Aaron Cook, musician Paddy Milner and authors Damien Lewis and Ali Shaw.

Catriona Brady, careers coordinator, is waiting to hear from former students, who can email her at CBrady@thomas-hardye.net

Former students can also sign up to Future First via the website futurefirst.org.uk and clicking the “Former Students” link.