AN Altrincham secondary school is seeking former students who can inspire and motivate schoolchildren to academic and career success.

Altrincham Grammar School for Girls has registered with the education charity Future First to set up a network of former students or alumni.

The school is keen to contact former students who left recently for further education, as well as those in established careers.

Stephanie Gill, principal of Altrincham Grammar School for Girls, said: “We are delighted to be working with Future First to strengthen our alumni community at AGGS.

"A network of past students, with all their valuable experience, will be vital in helping us broaden current students’ jobs horizons and equip them for the world of work.”

The former students will be able to work with students in a variety of ways; as career and education role models, mentors of 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-Howed, 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 and succeed in the working world and hearing first hand from relatable people in interesting jobs can make a huge difference.”

Former students should contact Kate Gillibrand at gillibrand@aggs.trafford.sch.uk or visit futurefirst.org.uk for more information.