A memorial for a much-loved member of staff took place yesterday at Oasis Academy Mayfield.

Hundreds came outside of the school on Ashley Crescent to remember the life of pastoral leader and Year 11 head of year.

The memorial was organised by the school, for the children who were unable to come to the funeral, which took place at Central Hall in St Mary’s the day before.

Principle Phil Humphrey welcomed the grieving guests to the short celebration of Calvin’s life, which took place after school at 3.30pm.

In a tribute to Mr Rodgers, he said: “Calvin cared massively about every single conversation that he had with every child and adult, and had immense passion for doing his job well. Many of you who are here today are stronger because of his support and love for you.”

There was a combination of students, past and presents as well as friends and colleagues of Mr Rodgers.

Students at the academy decided to commemorate Mr Rodgers by the balloon release as a way of sending their messages and thoughts to their head of year.

Also in attendance were Calvin’s wife Claire and his two daughters Freya and Tyra.

Head girl of the school, Prachi Patel, read a reading which said: “You can cry and close your mind be empty and turn your back. Or you can do what he would want: smile, open your eyes, love and go on.”

Chaplain Paul Woodman spoke of his memories of the 38-year-old.

There was then a minute silence before hundreds of biodegradable balloons were released by Calvin’s Year 11 students and his family.

Finally, Leader of the New Community Church, Billy Kennedy, who conducted the funeral service said a short prayer.

On the Sunday, there will also be a tribute ‘ride-out’ and service organised by former Oasis student Steve Waldon and mother of three former students Tammy Gibbs.

“If it wasn’t for Calvin I don’t know where I without him today. He kept a lot of people out of trouble and on the right path,” said Mr Waldon.

The ride-out is going to start from Burger King carpark in Hedge End and lead down to St Andrews Methodist church in Sholing after riding a route of some of Calvin’s favourite places. Motorist will be taking the A roads so it that the route is learner friendly.

“It was a huge shock when Calvin died. Worked with my daughter; he encouraged her, listened to her, helped her pass her exams,” said Mrs Gibbs.

An open remembrance will then take place at 6:30pm in St Andrews Methodist Church on South East Road to commemorate Calvin’s life.

A fundraising page has been set up to help support Calvin’s family: justgiving.com/crowdfunding/Claire-Tyra-Freya.