A Rickmansworth school is looking for former students who would like to support and inspire current pupils.

St Joan of Arc Catholic School, in High Street, is one of more than 450 schools across the country that has registered with the charity Future First to set up networks of former students or alumni.

Peter Sweeney, head teacher at the school, said: "We are thrilled to have signed up for Future First’s scheme as there is nothing more powerful than former students sharing their inspiring stories with students still at school who are about to make important decisions about their future pathways."

Alex Shapland-Howes, managing director of Future First, 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."

David Ritchie is managing the Future First programme at the school.

Those interested in signing up to the scheme can visit www.futurefirst.org.uk or email alumni@joa.herts.sch.uk