Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent Creates a Bright and Welcoming Outdoor Space

Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent is a thriving secondary school in Tunstall, Staffordshire. With over 1,200 pupils aged 11 to 16, it is one of the city’s most successful schools and part of the respected Co-op Academies Trust. The school’s vision focuses on high standards and providing every student with the best opportunities.

Project Specification

Product: Motiva Duo™
Size: 20000mm x 6000mm
Roof:
- Opal
Steelwork:
- Dusty Grey - RAL NO. 7037

As the academy continued to grow, staff noticed that pupils needed more covered space outdoors. At break and lunchtime, crowded walkways and seating areas left little shelter from the weather. The school wanted an outdoor area where students could gather, eat, and move between lessons while staying dry and comfortable.

The academy team looked for a canopy solution that was strong, long-lasting, and matched the look of their modern buildings.

Challenges

Limited outdoor cover: Students had little shelter during rain, causing congestion inside corridors.
High footfall areas: The canopy needed to serve a large number of pupils safely.
Aesthetic match: The design had to complement the existing school buildings.
Durability: The structure had to withstand regular use and local weather conditions.

Our Solution

A&S Landscape worked closely with the school to understand how the space was used throughout the day. After reviewing site access, pupil movement, and drainage needs, our team recommended the Motiva Duo™ canopy.

This model offers a smart, symmetrical curved roof design that provides wide, open coverage. The chosen structure measured 20,000mm by 6,000mm, giving ample space for pupils to gather or walk through comfortably.

Our team managed the full process from the initial survey to the final installation. Every detail, including colour choice and safety padding, was discussed with the academy to ensure the finished canopy met both functional and visual needs.

The result was a clean, modern outdoor shelter that complements the school’s architecture and supports student wellbeing.

Key Features and Materials

Structure: Made from solid steel with our Dura-coat™ colour finish for long-lasting protection.
Roofing: Genuine Poly-tuff™ polycarbonate panels providing UV protection and letting in natural light.
Design: Symmetrical curved roof that looks modern and suits the school’s contemporary buildings.
Posts and Pads: Steel posts fitted with coloured post pads to add safety and style.
Drainage: Integrated aluminium gutters and downpipes to manage rainwater efficiently.

Results

More covered space: Pupils now have a large sheltered area for eating, meeting friends, or waiting between lessons.
Improved movement: The canopy eases congestion indoors by encouraging pupils to use outdoor areas in wet weather.
Enhanced appearance: The bright and clean design complements the school’s modern buildings and grounds.
Durability and safety: The structure stands up to daily use and all weather conditions, giving the academy peace of mind.

Conclusion

The Motiva Duo™ canopy has provided Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent with a practical and attractive outdoor shelter that benefits both students and staff. It offers a safe and comfortable area that supports daily routines and helps reduce pressure on indoor spaces.

By choosing A&S Landscape, the academy gained a trusted partner who managed every stage with care and precision. The project has helped the school continue its mission to give pupils the best possible environment to learn and thrive.