Crystal Palace's Study Centre are delighted to announce the winner of the Stanhope/Schroders Award for achievement.

Billal Hussain from the Selhurst Mathematics and Computing Specialist School was presented with a home computer and colour printer courtesy of Stanhope Shroder by Deputy Mayor Mr Brian Udell, Centre Manager Mrs Susan Bigg and PR Marketing Executive Stanhope Schroder.

Susan Bigg said: "Bilal Hussain has had to prove himself over a period of a number of weeks, by working hard and showing the right attitude in class. There were many worthwhile contenders but Bilal stood head and shoulders above and I am delighted that this has meant he has been recongnised in this way."

Over 4,000 young people have passed through the study centre over the course of the past 10 years and none of this would be possible if not for the funding shown by outside companies according to Susan.

"For us to be able to continue providing this opportunity funding is required and we are grateful to Stanhope PLC and Schroders for recognising the potential of the Centre by providing us with the extra funding that will allow us to expand our provision." The centre manager told us.

Crystal Palace Study Centre is housed within the main stand at Selhurst Park. Bright and modern, it has 16 networked work stations, each with internet access and an interactive white board for whole group teaching.

It has been in operation for 10 years and has seen students from a variety of Croydon schools, both Primary and Secondary.

15 students are chosen to attend a weekly 3 hour session over a 6 week programme.

The main focus is given to improving literacy, numeracy, ITC, confidence and self-esteem. The facilities are also used during the day by a variety of different organisations.

Picture :- L to R Centre Manager Susan Biggs, Deputy Mayor Brian Udell, Bilal Hussain and Helen Morris, PR and Marketing Executive - Stanhope Schroder,