Teach-Primary-Issue-19.4

24 | www.teachwire.net What are some of the most popular all-weather solutions right now? We provide a whole range of off-the shelf and bespoke canopy solutions from covered walkways, through to all-weather learning, play and sports spaces and outdoor dining and seating. And we’re also seeing more and more schools installing all-weather bike and scooter storage solutions to encourage families to travel to school in a more environmentally friendly way, that also helps alleviate parking issues. Why should schools consider upgrading when funds are tight? Creative all-weather canopies completely transform daily school activities and can give previously neglected areas a whole new lease of life. Unattractive concrete spaces can be transformed into vibrant all-weather learning zones, unused playground corners can become much-loved social and dining areas, and under- used sports facilities can be used year-round! What are the most transformative projects for schools? The impact of covered walkways is hugely underestimated. If you make themwide enough, they not only create a more comfortable way of travelling between classrooms, but they also create valuable ad-hoc learning spaces for undertaking outdoor creative work or science experiments. Another transformative project is installing a canopy over your multi-use games area (MUGA). Our canopies instantly elevate MUGAs into year-round facilities. ASK THE EXPERT “Transform school life” What are the emerging trends in outdoor structures? Sustainability is the current watch word in design and construction, and there are some really simple and achievable wins you can make. Look for suppliers that use sustainably sourced and recyclable materials. And consider ways to weave environmentally friendly solutions into your design. For instance, we have helped schools create bike storage with solar panels on the roof, or covered walkways and learning spaces with green roofs that are not only beautiful to look at, but that also encourage biodiversity. Are there any design considerations schools should think of? Two key considerations are durability and aesthetics. Always team up with a supplier that offers a guarantee on the lifespan of your structure to ensure you achieve maximum return on your investment. It’s also worth thinking about how your new canopy will blend with its surroundings. Look for hybrid wood and steel structures to blend with natural environments, or different coloured powder-coated finishes that enable you to tailor your new structure to your school’s colours or landscape. Update under-used areas andmake themost of your grounds with sustainable and functional all-weather solutions EXPERT PROFILE Name: Stephen Toone Job title: Managing director Area of expertise: Providing innovative, versatile and affordable all-weather solutions for schools across the UK Best part of my job: Working with schools to completely transform the quality of their daily school life ASK ME ABOUT SITE VISITS: We offer a complimentary site visit with our expert team to help you get the most out of your project. OPTIONS: Our designs are thoughtful, practical, and affordable, and with value in mind we always ensure they can be easily converted or added to over time. SUSTAINABILITY: All our structures come with an industry-leading 25-year guarantee and are made from recyclable materials. PARTNER CONT ENT