A SOUTHALL school is encouraging ex-pupils to sign up to a national scheme aimed at improving job prospects for those in state education.

Featherstone High School in Montague Waye is one of more than 450 state schools to have registered with the charity, Future First.

It helps schools establish thriving alumni communities, which will support their present students prepare for working life.

“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 and grew up in the same community, has achieved a fulfilling and satisfying job, it helps them see it’s possible for them too.”

Sophie Kempka, of Featherstone High, said: “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.”

Ex-Featherstone pupils can sign up by contacting Sophie on skempa@featherstonehigh.ealing.sch.uk or by visiting www.futurefirst.org.uk