An Outdoor Canopy Project at The Royal Kent CofE Primary School

The Customer

The Royal Kent School located in Surrey sets high aspirations for every pupil. Their carefully designed curriculum stimulates children’s natural curiosity and enthusiasm which makes learning ‘come alive!’

Teaching staff wanted year 1 pupils to be able to access outdoor provision on a daily basis and reached out to outdoor playground expert Donella Felton to make their vision a reality.

Their Objectives

Donella knew that a large 9m x 6m Canopy would solve the schools’ current issues, creating a free flow outdoor play environment.

Pentagon’s timber canopies are made using high quality tanalised and pressurised timber which children will enjoy for many years to come. Timber frame canopies also come with a 15-year guarantee.

Watertight construction allows pupils to venture outside in all weathers as a clever rainwater system feeds into existing drains.

Our Approach

The outdoor shelter was extended to sit in line with the EYFS canopy of the classroom next door, ensuring consistency throughout EYFS and KS1.

A twin-walled polycarbonate roof protects from rain and sun but also helps to create a light, bright airy space which learners enjoy spending time in.

Year 1 class teacher, Chloe Price explained that the canopy has made a big difference to teaching and learning. Before the project children were restricted when using the outdoor space, problems occurred if it had rained or was too hot. Now pupils can access allocated areas and teaching staff don’t have to worry about moving resources in and out.

The available outdoor space offers a multitude of experiences to pupils. They can experience the natural world, experiment with scientific concepts, make structures and models, create artwork and explore scenarios through role play.

Pupils now have more space to move, explore and to use an outside voice which for some pupils suits their style of learning better. Chloe commented that the noise level inside the classroom is much improved during formal learning time as energy can be released in the outdoor environment.

Pupils are clearly motivated to learn outdoors and really enjoy the different learning opportunities and resources available to them.

The Results

School Business Manager, Louise Wheatley who coordinated the project was extremely pleased with the level of professionalism and open communication throughout the development from the initial site visit to the order and installation. Louise commented that queries were promptly replied to, realistic delivery times were exceeded and she was confident that should any issues occur, they would be quickly resolved.

Louise praised the quality workmanship from our professional, approachable team of playground installers. Nothing was ever too much trouble and she couldn’t believe what was achieved in two days!

We hope that year 1 pupils continue to learn, grow and engage in playful experiences in their fantastic sheltered provision!

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