Canopies for Senior Schools

Learn More About Our Work With Senior School Canopies

Our Featured Senior School Canopy Project

Wright Robinson College in Manchester adds Fabric Tepee Canopies

What was the project brief?

Wright Robinson College is committed to providing its students with the very best learning experience. They know that part of that involves ensuring that their campus provides all the necessary facilities, and this means having the provisions to be outdoors. With the average rainfall of the UK being 156.2 days per year and the high unpredictability of the weather, it was crucial to install a covered area that could provide year-round protection.

A&S Landscape was approached by Wright Robinson College to provide a shelter solution. The first step in the process involved helping the school to navigate the hundreds of fantastic designs they had available to them. The school wanted the practical benefits, but the overall aesthetics was an important factor too. They wanted the canopies to complement the existing campus, so this needed to be considered. Once the decision was finalised, A&S Landscape would then be responsible for the manufacture and install of the outdoor canopy. They were therefore involved with the whole process from start to finish.

What was our senior school canopy solution?

We knew that being a senior school, the canopies needed to be trendy to encourage the students to use them. The shelter that stood out to us was that of the fabric resistant canopy structure, the Maxima Tepee™. With a modular design, these canopies have multiple unit possibilities, as well as standing out as a truly unique feature.

Using the modular benefits, two tepees were installed to cover a large area, both measuring 6000mm x 6000mm. These proved to be an excellent solution. With the waterproof PVC fabric roof providing protection from the rain and sun, and the sturdy steel framework giving the structure its stability, it met all of the practical benefits of an outdoor canopy. The colours chosen were suited to the school brand’s colours, with the steelwork in Grey (RAL 7037) and the shade cloth in Red (RAL 3000). The shelter truly adhered to all of the school’s unique requirements.

What was the result of their new senior school canopy?

Everyone involved in the creation of the new sheltered area was thrilled with the amazing results of the two new tepees. The school was extremely pleased that we were able to meet all of their unique requirements, and with how smart the two tepees look within the school grounds. Upon commencement of the project, the school were a little nervous due to the extensive range they had available to them. However, with the help of A&S Landscape, the information was broken down into smaller, digestible chunks, and so they felt they had made a well-informed decision.

The result now is that the students are able to enjoy time outside whatever the weather, safe in the knowledge that the tensile structure above will provide adequate shade and shelter. The two tepees are a real focal point within the school grounds and have also eased the pressure on the school buildings. Children can now sit and eat outside, enjoying the fresh air while they have their lunch. The two canopies have had a massively positive effect on the school environment, and with the two shade structures branded to the school colours, they look immensely smart too.

About the client

“Team Wright Robinson is fully committed to inspiring its students to achieve academic excellence, good character and resilience.” This mission statement by Wright Robinson College is one in which they hold dear to their whole ethos. Located in Gorton, Manchester, this school has been identified as an outstanding secondary school by Ofsted, and you can see the investment they make in their students by admiration of their beautiful campus.

We loved the enthusiasm and passion shown by this school for their students. They didn’t just want a shelter to fulfil their own obligatory requirements, they wanted the space to be attractive and appealing to the students too. Evidently, they see the bigger picture when it comes to the education experience, and we took great pleasure in working them to achieve this. We are proud to know that the fabric tensile structure will serve its purpose for years and years to come.

The benefits of outdoor learning for secondary school children

Quite often the benefits of outdoor learning are associated with early year settings, however, it is just as important for older children too, making their way through senior school and into college. It is important to remember that for younger children, being outside is a great way for them to develop their multiple senses, it allows them to smell, hear and see varying stimuli. However, there is a requirement for this to be maintained throughout childhood. Some may argue that it is even more important for educational settings to provide outdoor learning to older children due to the high amount of time teenagers spend in front of their mobile phones or a computer.

There is even a name for a person who experiences a persistent lack of nature and the outdoors. Although not recognised as a medical condition, ‘nature deficit disorder,’ has been linked to a number of physical and mental health problems, including obesity, attention difficulties and diminished use of senses! All of these problems can have hugely negative impacts on learning and development. Whether your school is located in an city, or in a more rural setting, it is hugely important to ensure that the students have a comfortable space to be outside when they can.

There are so many other benefits of being outdoors, it is impossible to list them all. However, when it comes to enhancing learning and education, both students and teachers will feel the benefits. Both will have higher energy levels, and the removal of the constraints of the classroom can even give the teachers a wider insight into the motivation of their students. This can help the entire learning process, giving the teacher a better understanding of how to educate their students.

Why choose A&S Landscape?

If you’re looking for inspiration for your school canopy, A&S Landscape is here for you. We have been installing canopies all across the UK for 44 years, with thousands of outdoor canopies installed within a school environment. We are committed to ensuring that children can access an outdoor area all year round, for their personal development, wellbeing and mental health. That is why all of our canopies are designed with children at the forefront.

Whether you are a nursery, primary school, or university, we have a canopy that can enhance your student’s education experience. Whatever your requirements, we have the perfect solution. As well as our expertise, being a family-led business, we will ensure that you receive the best possible customer service, and you can guarantee that we will be personal, reliable and friendly throughout.

If you’d like to discuss how we can help you find the best solution to your outdoor cover requirements, get in touch with our friendly team on 01743 444100 or at [email protected].