Outdoor spaces in schools give students a place to play, learn and spend time together outside the classroom. However, to make these areas truly useful and enjoyable, schools need to consider how to protect and make them work well for different activities, says Angela Brown, Shelters Business Manager at Broxap.
Broxap
By providing shade and cover, canopies and shelters make outdoor spaces more practical and welcoming for all.
Keeping everyone protected from the weather
One of the biggest benefits of canopies and shelters is protection from the weather. No matter what the seasons bring, whether it’s heavy rain, glaring sunlight or even snow, these structures let students and teachers use outdoor spaces year-round, helping to prevent issues like overheating, sunburn or slipping on wet surfaces.
A well-placed canopy can make all the difference on a rainy morning. Parents and children can take shelter under a canopy while waiting for the school gates to open, staying dry and comfortable instead of huddling under umbrellas. This encourages more families to walk or cycle to school, knowing that they will have protection from adverse weather when they arrive.
Built to last
A high-quality canopy or shelter should easily withstand years of heavy use and changing weather without needing constant repairs. Tough materials like steel, aluminium and polycarbonate are great for canopies and shelters because of their mechanical properties and durability.
Steel is perfect for big-span structures because of its high tensile strength and load-bearing capacity, and modern powder coatings make it corrosion resistant. Aluminium is a lightweight, strong alternative and its natural oxidation resistance means minimal maintenance.
Polycarbonate, a durable thermoplastic, provides impact resistance and UV protection, making it a lightweight substitute for glass. Alternatively, high-quality fabric canopies transform outdoor spaces by providing shade, UV protection and waterproof cover, all under one stylish textile roof.
Investing in a well-built and durable canopy is safer for students and saves schools money in the long run by avoiding frequent replacements.
Making spaces look good
A little shade isn’t just practical – it can also enhance a school’s overall look. Since canopies and shelters are visible parts of the building, it’s important to choose designs that match the school’s style.
Primary schools may choose bright, fun colours that appeal to younger kids, while high schools and colleges might prefer a more modern and simple design. The right design elevates the school’s visual appeal and creates outdoor spaces that feel inviting and comfortable for everyone.
Covered walkways and entrance canopies are also excellent for welcoming visitors as they provide protection against elements and serve as pathways to guide visitors around the school site.
Encouraging outdoor learning
Outdoor learning is an important part of school life, making lessons fun and engaging. Whether it’s a science lesson in nature, an art lesson drawing in the fresh air or story time outside, having a sheltered area makes these activities much easier to set up.
Being outside has been proven to improve focus, boost creativity and reduce student stress – but none of this is possible if outdoor spaces are exposed to unpredictable weather.
Canopies and shelters provide reliable space for outdoor lessons, which tend to be more socially interactive and pupil-led. This learning style is great, especially for children who may find indoor lessons challenging.
Playground furniture, such as benches and tables, can support sheltered outdoor spaces by making them more appealing for learners, providing a place for colouring or completing worksheets.
Supporting play and social time
Playgrounds are where kids spend time together, play and build friendships. Adding a canopy over a play area means kids can keep playing even when it’s lightly raining or very sunny.
For older students, covered seating areas or outdoor dining spaces give them somewhere to socialise during breaks or study with friends. These spaces encourage students to spend more time outdoors, interacting with others and taking a break from screens.
Shelters can also organise outdoor areas by breaking up spaces into different zones. For example, one area might be designated for messy play, complete with water and sand tables, while another could be for quiet reading or studying with comfortable seating for a peaceful atmosphere.
Making outdoor spaces more useful
Every school has different needs, so it’s important to choose a design that fits the space and budget. Modular shelters are great options because they can be designed to fit around existing spaces and can be expanded later if needed. Choosing eco-friendly materials, such as a timber frame, or adding features like solar panels can help schools reach their sustainability goals.
Canopies and shelters are more than just practical – they can completely transform outdoor spaces. High-quality structures are entirely worth the investment, both in the short and long term, and schools can look into the abundance of grants or fundraising to help cover the costs.
With the right planning, canopies and shelters can make outdoor spaces a true extension of the classroom and playground, helping everyone make the most of the time they spend at school.
