More than a place of learning, schools are vibrant communities where students can grow, interact, and develop essential life skills. However, they need a space to thrive. Say hello to a social area! While classrooms and other facilities are undoubtedly crucial, the importance of school social areas often goes overlooked.
At A&S Landscape, we believe that well-designed social spaces, such as a bespoke school canopy, are fundamental to fostering a positive school environment and enhancing academic outcomes. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best reasons why a social space is a valuable investment for your school.
Let’s get started…
How important are social areas? 5 reasons why you should invest
In a busy school environment, it’s easy to focus on classrooms, textbooks, and exams. However, a truly exciting educational space, like a senior school canopy, can provide a space where students can relax, interact, and explore their outdoor surroundings. A well-designed social space doesn’t just have to be an aesthetic addition. While we have plenty of colours available, they’re a strategic investment in the success of your students.
Here are some important reasons why a dedicated social space is a good investment:
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Advance student interactions
Student engagement is key to the layout of your social spaces. And, these engagements are about more than just making friends; it’s about finding ways to promote academic growth and prepare students for life beyond the classroom. Social areas provide informal spaces for students to collaborate, brainstorm, and tackle challenges together, which can encourage behaviours like critical thinking, negotiation skills, and the ability to work well in a team.
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Build confidence
When students feel safe, comfortable, and empowered within their environment, their self-assurance will naturally blossom! Unlike the structured design of a classroom, an outdoor social space, like one of our school shade sails, offers much more freedom and choice. And, for students struggling with social anxiety or feelings of isolation, an accessible and inviting social space can be transformative. Removing the serious stigma attached to classrooms can help to break down barriers, reduce feelings of loneliness, and build the confidence needed to interact with peers and engage with the school community.
Stefanie Lomas, covered spaces consultant, says:
“Confidence doesn’t have to be built at a desk. We consistently see that when students are given accessible outdoor areas, their self-assurance and ability to interact with other pupils dramatically improve! A canopy, therefore, is a powerful statement that values informal learning and student well-being.”
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Enhance mental health and well-being
Nowadays, prioritising student mental health and well-being is more important than ever. Schools are key environments that can influence a child’s emotional and psychological development. So, by providing social spaces, you’re letting students engage in essential breaks and decompression zones. The benefits of an outdoor social space are even more paramount. It’s no surprise that nature benefits mental health, so by investing in a bespoke outdoor canopy from A&S Landscape, you’re allowing pupils to access fresh air and opportunities for physical activity.
Discover more reasons why learning in nature could help your students here!
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Support cognitive performance
Social spaces aren’t just places to take breaks; they’re a dynamic environment that can contribute to improved learning, memory, and problem-solving abilities. A social space can allow students to step away from tasks and engage in conversations or observe their surroundings, leading to improved attention spans and greater focus when they do return to their academic work.
Did you know that outdoor learning can actually improve academic performance? By providing students with a safe and welcoming outdoor social space, their motivation is increased, meaning that they actually want to learn and acquire knowledge about the world around them.
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Build a stronger school community
And finally, social spaces can help to build a stronger community, in your school and outside of school hours. When students find a space they can collectively share and enjoy, these spaces become part of their shared memories and experiences, contributing to a unique school identity and fostering a sense of pride.
Thoughtfully designed social areas can also extend their use beyond school hours and lead to other extracurricular activities. For example, you could set up a school garden, host community events, or open your school up to parents for local group activities.
Create a vibrant outdoor social area with one of our bespoke canopies!
Did you know that at A&S Landscape, we offer bespoke canopies that would be perfect for your outdoor social space? As well as offering protection from the elements, one of our canopies would be a valuable asset for fostering social interactions and supporting pupil well-being.
A few of our favourite canopies that would be ideal for social spaces include:
An outdoor dining canopy – Specifically, our Motiva Expanse™ design. Lunchtimes are the perfect time for social interaction, and this canopy allows for exactly that! With a wide range of panel and door options, students can stay well sheltered from harsh UV rays or strong winds while they enjoy a well-earned break.
A playground canopy – We’d recommend our Motiva Cantilever™ design. This canopy has a clear, open space underneath it that allows for easy movement of people, furniture, or setting up activities without any poles being in the way! You can use the space for picnics, outdoor seating areas, or even a performance space.
A playground shade sail – Our Maxima Umbrella® is the perfect choice. The unique shape of this canopy creates a vibrant and exciting outdoor experience, drawing students in. As well as being a good social space, they offer excellent sun protection and waterproof shelter, making them ideal for an outdoor classroom, reading nook, or informal gathering spots.
Support student well-being with the help of the experts from A&S Landscape
As we’ve discovered, a well-designed social area can boost mental well-being, build stronger relationships and create a more inclusive school environment. Beyond being a place for students to gather, outdoor school canopies can transform any outdoor area into a vibrant and inviting social hub!
At A&S Landscape, we’re truly passionate about finding you a solution that will benefit your school. With nearly 50 years of experience, we have the brains, passion, and personality to make your project work.
Ready to invest in a dynamic outdoor social space? Then get in touch with us today!
