Academy in Search of Mentors for the Next Generation

Canterbury Times Press Release

THE Canterbury Academy is on the lookout for past students to help mentor and support the current generation.

The school in Knight Avenue is one of more than 400 state schools and colleges across Britain that have registered with the charity Future First to set up networks of former students to inspire youngsters.

Phil Karnavas, executive principal of The Canterbury Academy said: "We signed up to Future First's scheme straightaway.

"A network of past students, some having gained first-class degrees at university, others having gone abroad to play sport and others who have appeared on stage, screen and TV, will bring all their valuable experience ,which will be vital in helping us to broaden our current students' jobs horizons and equip them for the world of work."

More than 100,000 former students across Britain have already signed up to stay connected with their old school by acting as education role models, mentors or e-mentors, work experience providers, governors, donors or fundraisers.

It doesn't matter when you left school, whether you're in further education or employment, whether you still live nearby or have moved further away, there are still ways you can help, the charity said 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."

If you would like to help, e-mail Garry Carr at gcarr@canterbury.kent.sch.uk

Former students can also sign up to Future First's alumni scheme by clicking on the "Former Students" link on the website www.futurefirst.org.uk.

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http://www.canterburytimes.co.uk/Did-Canterbury-Academy-School-search-mentors/story-26439993-detail/story.html