On Friday 25th October de Stafford School in Burntwood Lane, Caterham, officially opened 'The Jenkins Centre' to offer extra curricular support to ensure students reach their full potential.

The Jenkins Centre has been named in recognition of Geraint Jenkins MBE who has given over 30 years' service to the school. Mr Jenkins is also the school's link with children in Kimilili, in Kenya. Kate Harris, teacher at de Stafford School said: "Our staff and students describe Mr Jenkins as a legend. In the local community Mr Jenkins works tirelessly, fundraising for a number of different charities and he has been a huge supporter of the school for many years. He has helped to raise thousands of pounds for the PSA which helps fund projects in the school."

de Stafford School's vision is that students are supported to achieve their best in all areas of their life which impact on their time at school – learning, relationships, well-being and ambition. Personalised intervention programmes at the Jenkins Centre focus on providing the students with the tools they need to be successful learners and responsible citizens, values close to Mr Jenkins' heart.

Mr Jenkins said: "I'm thrilled and honoured as well as humbled to be associated with the Jenkins Centre. It's a great facility which will support children of all abilities. I'm a great believer in enabling and encouraging young people to overcome challenges and to increase their self-esteem. I've seen many youngsters over the years who had quite low self esteems for one reason or another, simply flourish and blossom when that extra bit of help and time were provided. The staff at the centre are superb and the facilities are excellent."