The Trinity School Installs a New Outdoor Canopy

The Trinity School is a mixed secondary school in Colchester, Essex. It is part of the Alpha Trust and welcomes pupils aged 11 to 16. Since opening in 2021, the school has grown quickly and now educates almost 600 students, with a capacity for 900.

Project Specification

  • Product: Motiva Duo™
  • Size: 15000mm x 12000mm
  • Roof:
    • Opal

  • Steelwork:
    • Slate Grey - RAL NO. 7015

The school occupies a new, purpose-built site with three floors of modern classrooms, sports areas, and specialist teaching spaces. As the school community expanded, it became clear that more covered outdoor space was needed. Staff wanted an area that students could use throughout the year for learning, socialising, or dining.

The school team looked for a strong and attractive canopy that would fit well with the new buildings and provide reliable protection from the weather.

Challenges

  • Limited outdoor cover: Students had few sheltered spaces to use during breaks or outdoor lessons.
  • Weather protection: Rain and wind often restricted outdoor activity and the use of open areas.
  • Aesthetic fit: The school wanted a canopy that would match its modern architecture and high-quality finish.
  • Durability: With heavy daily use, the structure needed to be robust and low-maintenance.

Our Solution

A&S Landscape worked closely with the school and the Alpha Trust to design and install a Motiva Duo™ canopy. This model features a duopitch curved roof that provides excellent coverage and a modern appearance.

The canopy measured 15,000mm by 12,000mm, offering a large sheltered space that can comfortably accommodate multiple classes or student groups at once. Its clear polycarbonate roofing allows plenty of natural light while keeping the area dry and bright.

Our team managed the full process from design to installation, ensuring minimal disruption to school life. The final design included bespoke adjustments to fit the site layout and match the school’s building colours.

The Motiva Duo™’s solid steel frame was finished in our long-lasting Dura-coat™ colour system, ensuring excellent protection against corrosion and weathering.

Key Features and Materials

  • Structure: All-steel frame with a Dura-coat™ colour finish for strength, appearance, and durability.
  • Roofing: Clear Poly-tuff™ polycarbonate panels providing bright light and UV protection.
  • Drainage: Integrated Alu-Tuff™ aluminium gutters and downpipes for smooth water flow.
  • Safety: Optional post pads in a contrasting colour to protect pupils during busy use.
  • Design: Symmetrical curved roof offering an attractive and practical look that complements the modern school buildings.

Results

  • Year-round use: Students can now gather, eat, or learn outside, whatever the weather.
  • Improved comfort: Rain and sun are no longer barriers to outdoor activities.
  • Enhanced school environment: The canopy blends perfectly with the architecture, adding a professional and welcoming touch.
  • Durability and value: The strong steel frame and high-quality finish will provide reliable performance for many years.
  • Happy students and staff: The new space encourages outdoor learning and social interaction, improving wellbeing and daily experience.

Conclusion

The Trinity School’s new Motiva Duo™ canopy has created a practical and attractive addition to the campus. It supports the school’s vision of offering excellent facilities that enhance learning and wellbeing.

With its spacious design and robust materials, the structure provides dependable protection and flexible use for both staff and pupils.

A&S Landscape was proud to help The Trinity School achieve its goal of making the most of its outdoor space. The finished result is a long-lasting feature that reflects the school’s commitment to quality and care for its community.