Our Story

Who We Are

Our name is our purpose. At Centra, we stand at the heart of your IT.

We built Centra after seeing too many businesses forced to adapt to IT that was never designed for them. We take a different approach: we start by understanding how people work, then design technology that supports them naturally.

That is why schools and businesses trust us as a close partner, keeping IT reliable, intuitive, and quietly doing its job in the background, so people can focus on what matters most.

A partner, not a provider

We work alongside you, not just for you. Every client gets direct access to the people who manage their systems.

Honest and transparent

No jargon, no upselling. We give straightforward advice and only recommend what you actually need.

Rooted in Lancashire, serving the UK

Based in Preston with on-site support across the North West and remote coverage UK-wide.

The team

Meet the Team

The people behind Centra Systems

Managing Director & Co-Founder

Michael Blake

Brings over a decade of leadership in IT. Michael drives Centra’s strategy with a focus on client relationships, sustainable growth, and delivering on promises.

Technical Director & Co-Founder

Ryan Witts

Specialising in automation and infrastructure, Ryan ensures both Centra and its clients run smoothly. He believes technology should empower people, not get in their way.

Administrative Coordinator

Julie Ditchfield

With over 30 years in administration, Julie keeps Centra organised and responsive. She makes sure clients get the support they need, when they need it.

How we work

Our Values

The principles that guide how we work and how we partner with you.

People First

Technology shaped around people, not the other way round. We take the time to understand how you actually work before recommending solutions, so IT supports your day rather than disrupting it.

Flexible & Process-Driven

We bring structure where it matters - clear ticketing, documented processes, and consistent follow-through. But we stay flexible enough to adapt when your needs change or something urgent comes up.

Proactive by Nature

We monitor, patch, and maintain your systems so problems are caught before they reach you. Our goal is for IT to quietly do its job in the background while you focus on what matters most.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say

Working with Centra has been a really positive experience and the transition was flawless. With Centra overseeing our network, server and IT we have fewer issues and the speed of access has improved.

Administrative Officer

Kirkham St Michaels CE Primary School

Michael and Ryan have brought a rare blend of technical expertise, responsiveness and straightforward honesty that is not always easy to find in the educational IT space.

Headteacher

St George's CE Primary School

We have a superb working relationship with Centra; they are on hand and supportive whenever we need their expertise or help, and their advice proves invaluable when problem-solving or planning for the future.

Headteacher

Mayfield Primary School

We are pleased to recommend Centra Systems for the outstanding service they consistently provide: honest and reliable in all aspects of their work, always acting with the school's best interests at heart.

School Business Manager

Lea Community Primary School

Working with Michael and Ryan day to day has been an absolute pleasure. They explain everything in clear, non-technical language, respond promptly, and liaise directly with Lancashire County Council and our suppliers, taking great pressure off our staff. Technology runs smoothly and we truly see them as an extension of our own team.

Headteacher

St Thomas' CE Primary School

Centra have been a huge support to our school's ever changing IT infrastructure. Michael and Ryan are both very friendly and approachable - I would, without hesitation, recommend Centra as an IT support partner.

School Business Manager

Red Marsh School

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