Allen Edwards Primary School in London Add Playground Canopies

In May 2020 the staff and pupils at Allen Edwards Primary School moved into a completely new building. All that was missing was a sheltered area in the playground to protect pupils, and outdoor equipment, from the winter weather.

Project Specification

  • Product: Motiva Linear™
  • Sizes: 16000mm x 4000mm | 15000mm x 4000mm
  • Steelwork:
    • Slate Grey - RAL NO. 7015

  • Roof:
    • Opal

What was the project?

Playground Canopy at Allen Edwards Primary SchoolTo add two playground canopies to the outdoor play areas at Allen Edwards Primary School in London.

What was the problem?

Allen Edwards Primary School in London had recently been redeveloped however, once the rebuild was completed, it was evident that there was a lack of shelter in the playground. A&S Landscape was called in to design, build and install a steel structure against the side of the school that would provide shelter for pupils and enable outdoor learning even when raining.

What was our solution?

We installed two canopies with stylish Slate Grey steelwork and an opal polycarbonate roof to the sides of the school. This provided a practical and contemporary solution to the problem of accessing outside space in bad weather. The addition of the opal polycarbonate roof meant that not only will pupils be kept dry in wet weather, but they’ll also be protected from harmful UV rays in the midday sun.

What product did we use?

A straight roof Motiva Linear™ playground canopy was used that provides a slight slope, and guttering, to allow rainwater to run off. The Motiva Linear™ is all-weather proofed and extremely tough and durable. The Slate Grey steelwork looks sleek and modern to present a stylish finish.

What was the result?

All the pupils at Allen Edwards Primary School were overjoyed with the all-weather addition to their outdoor play area. They now have a protected space that can be used at lunch and break times as well as for educational adventures outdoors. Tables, chairs and other school furniture and teaching equipment, can now also be left outdoors without worrying about it getting wet.

Feedback / testimonial

“A&S Landscape were very organised and the contractors were neat and tidy whilst on the job. There were no scratches on the paintwork and the polycarbonate roof was good quality. Looked good from start to finish.

Allen Edwards Primary School

A little bit about the client…

Allen Edwards Primary School is a forward-thinking and culturally rich community school in Stockwell, southwest London. We were thoroughly impressed with their recent redevelopment which has become an obvious source of passion and pride to pupils, parents and staff alike.

All of the team at Allen Edwards Primary School were a joy to work with and we were proud to present the staff and Headteacher, Louise Robertson, with our completed playground canopy. It’s a real thrill to be able to ensure pupils and teachers have as much access to outdoor space as possible and we know that it will benefit the children’s overall educational experience, not just at playtimes.

What is a straight roof canopy?

Salisbury Primary School Colourful ShelterEssentially, this style of canopy is most frequently used against existing buildings. Uses vary from protected walkways and waiting areas, to outdoor study stations and places to dine alfresco. Straight roof canopies are asymmetric and have one side (against the building) positioned at a slightly higher angle to the opposite side. Guttering can then be added to ensure rainwater runs off rather than collecting and staining the colour of the polycarbonate roof.

Why are canopies perfect for primary schools?

There’s just something about being outdoors that inspires positivity and nurtures wellbeing amongst children, and adults. Not only are they enjoying being out in the open air but they’re also free to run around without feeling constricted by four walls.

Of course, the good old British weather isn’t always conducive to letting kids loose outside all the time. Also, it’s not much fun to sit inside after playing outdoors in the pouring rain. And, with summer temperatures rising, year-on-year, harmful UV rays are becoming a real problem. That’s why playground canopies are perfect for primary schools. Not only do they provide protection against the elements and enable children to have more access to outdoor space, but they also enhance the overall look of the school.

Stylish, durable and practical – that’s not a bad combination.

The benefits of having canopies in schools include everything from improving a child’s educational experience to providing additional space for storage. Also, in uncertain times, having an outdoor space gives teachers a chance to reduce overcrowding and encourage better social distancing.

Of course, there are no better people to tell you why canopies are perfect for primary schools other than the headteachers and staff who’ve had them installed themselves. Take a look at these testimonials from primary school representatives to find out what they think about canopies.

How A&S Landscape can help you

We’re a third-generation family business and have been designing, building and installing canopies for more than four decades. At A&S Landscape we value good old-fashioned quality just as much as building long-term relationships with our clients. We’re a hard-working team that you can trust.

No matter whether you’re looking to create more outside space for your primary school or you have a different type of project in mind, the A&S team are on hand to help you every step of the way.

From senior schools and green spaces to sports centres and healthcare facilities, our choice of canopies are suitable for a huge variety of different public and private sectors. For more information about our range of canopies and our competitive pricing policy, please contact a member of the team on 01743 444100 or email [email protected].

Learn more about A&S Landscape by reading through more of our projects based in London

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