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We were approached by Dwight School to produce a playground canopy to shelter children during break times and parents at the end of the day.
The requirement
The school wanted a canopy that would help children get outside at break times, which could also be used as an outdoor classroom and for PE lessons. The Parent Teacher Association expressed concerns about parents waiting in the rain at home time and had requested a parent waiting shelter.
We needed to create a multipurpose covered area to provide complete protection, including a UV filter for sun and a fully waterproof and weatherproof roof with guttering. The school’s playground is limited on space so the ideal solution would not impact the available space.
Challenges
The main challenge was designing the canopy to give maximum protection and get most use for students, parents, and staff. After several site meetings, we decided a cantilever Connekt canopy would provide the required cover without losing any playground space.
The solution
The Connekt system was used with posts against the edge of the playground. The canopy cantilevers from these posts and overhangs the playground, without any obstructing posts in the play area. We colour matched the rear panel above the fence line to be sympathetic to the neighbours behind.
Results
The completed canopy provides multipurpose shelter throughout the school day. The canopy was installed over some weekend days to gain access at times convenient to the school. The school is very pleased with the results:
“Having dual usage helped raise interest”
“One of the driving points for purchasing a canopy was that our parents wanted shelter. The other driver was using the outdoor space as a break-out classroom during the school day. Having dual usage helped raise interest in the canopy, with students, staff, and parents.
Our PTA and Student Council agreed to it. They researched various providers, chose Canopies UK, and raised half of the funds. The school matched the other half. Canopies UK established a quick and trustworthy relationship with us.
Canopies UK kept us in the loop and visited the site. They provided the necessary paperwork and documentation for parents and students. They stayed within the agreed schedule and the canopy was erected in March 2020. It has worked well for us during the pandemic as it has facilitated outside meetings, classes, and presentations. We also use it for outdoor picnics!
I would recommend Canopies UK wholeheartedly. They were professional, friendly and got the job completed in the time required.”
Matt Parkin, Lower School Principal, Dwight School London
