A custodian at Northlands Primary School has been recognised for his hard work and dedication to students with the September Public Service Excellence Award.

Keith Smith was highlighted for going ‘above and beyond’ to prepare the school for its reopening last month, single-handedly conducting a range of repairs, maintenance and cleaning tasks at the campus.

Tamicia Darrell, Northlands Principal, said: “Mr Smith consistently demonstrates that he is just as committed to student success as the teaching staff are.

“A safe and orderly environment is a mainstay here at Northlands as a direct result of the pride he takes daily to maintain the school’s cleanliness.

“He is always available and willing to ensure that every room is prepared to meet the needs of students and staff. We would not be able to run our school without him.”

A government spokeswoman said that since the school closed for summer holiday, Mr Smith was the only custodian at the school, which usually required a small team to manage.

“Mr Smith performed a range of tasks, including fixing and replacing doors, moving furniture, stripping and waxing floors, reinstalling AC units and cleaning the campus,” the spokeswoman said.

“He has been described by the school’s principal as a giant who ‘performed miracles’, for the extent of labour, time, and care put in to ensure the school was fit for reopening.”

David Burt, the Premier, praised Mr Smith for his contributions, remarking that the work of service staff often goes unseen.

“These unsung heroes add so much value to the lives of those who they work to support,” he said.

“The students and families of Northlands may not realise who Mr Smith is or the integral role he plays in the ecosystem of their school, but I am incredibly honoured to share his story today so that more people can be aware of his outstanding and selfless service to Bermuda’s youth.”

Derrick Binns, the Head of the Public Service, thanked Mr Smith for his hard work and wished him continued success.

The PSEA programme was launched to recognise public officers who demonstrate admirable service delivery with a different individual or team recognised for their contributions every month.