Adrian is central to success of school

“An incredibly kind and considerate human being central to the success of our school and our children”

A man described by his bosses as an “incredibly kind and considerate human being” has been nominated for support worker of the year category in the Revival Community Awards.

Adrian Penfold, who works for Westmeads Community Infant School in Whitstable, is cited for “incredibly hard work beyond his role” to ensure the school is not only safe, clean and ready for pupils and teaching staff day-in and day-out but that – most importantly – his contribution helps make it a place of exceptional education.

School management has also praised the nominee for his “instrumental work” in delivery of its nursery project building, something vital in helping to meet the demand for pre-school places in the local area.

Dubbing him as “central to the success of our school and our children”, Adrian is further praised for his work in areas such as ensuring the building is sustainable and environmentally friendly, and in working with the leadership team to address challenges by helping identify and implement innovative solutions to problems.

And, in challenging times for the education sector and our young people, perhaps the most significant praise for Adrian comes through his commitment to the school’s mentoring programme and in which he supports pupils well beyond the parameters of his job description.

The Revival Community Awards are staged by East Kent Mind and Revival Food and Mood, its Whitstable social enterprise mental health hub and cafe restaurant. The event is supported by SouthEastern, Barretts, Christ Church University, Active Life, Whitefriars, The Riverside, CommunityAd and the Lord Mayor of Canterbury.

Nominations focus on the individuals reviving our community, businesses, clubs, schools and charities.

This is not just about wellbeing. Categories are broad-ranging and include staff from: volunteers, sports clubs, charities, educational establishments, businesses, council and NHS. These awards are not just for those in leadership – they are to thank those on the front line – the unsung heroes whose dedication and effort deliver small but vital successes to their organisation.

You can nominate someone here:

https://eastkentmind.org.uk/get-involved/revivalcommunityawards/revivalnominationform/

The deadline to submit a nomination is noon on January 22, 2026.