Alumni are being invited to cultivate links between past and present Sydney Russell School pupils as part of a scheme to improve the transition between school and working life.

Barking and Dagenham Post: Sydney Russell alumnus and businessman Martin Sullivan, pictured with student Nir Amin. Picture: The Sydney Russell School.Sydney Russell alumnus and businessman Martin Sullivan, pictured with student Nir Amin. Picture: The Sydney Russell School. (Image: The Sydney Russell School)

The education charity Future First is running the programme at schools across the country, including at the Parsloes Avenue, Dagenham school, to create a ‘thriving, engaged alumni community’ that helps pupils by providing role models and mentors who have had similar experiences growing up.

English teacher Petrina de Gouttes said: “We’re excited at the prospect of reconnecting with former students and establishing an alumni community.

“A network of past pupils with all their valuable experience will be vital in helping us to broaden the horizons of current pupils and equip them for the world of work.”

Matt Lent, CEO of Future First added: “If a student sees someone who has the same background has gone on to achieve success, they are far more likely to think they can too.”

Barking and Dagenham Post: Sydney Russell alumnus and businessman Martin Sullivan, pictured with student Nir Amin. Picture: The Sydney Russell School.Sydney Russell alumnus and businessman Martin Sullivan, pictured with student Nir Amin. Picture: The Sydney Russell School. (Image: The Sydney Russell School)

Former pupils can sign up at futurefirst.org.uk