Play & Learn Outdoors
WELCOMETOTHEAUTUMN EDITION
OFPLAY & LEARN OUTDOORS
Hello and welcome to the September edition of P&LO
At the time of writing this, the rain is pouring, I have a hot drink to hand and I can feel autumn in the air
It feels like summer has well and truly left, and after a busy summer of installing canopies and shelters at schools across the UK, we are looking forward to getting back in touch and seeing what new projects you have in mind
CONTENTS
But first, we have a jammed packed issue of Play & Learn Outdoors for you to sift through
You will be sure to find lots of playground design inspiration, including a focus on some stunning shade sails installed at a school in London, lot's of fundraising ideas, and outdoor play and learning inspiration
If you enjoy reading P&LO, we'd love you to pass a copy onto your
colleagues to also enjoy If they would like to receive their own copies, email us at: marketing@ablecanopies co uk and we'll add them to the list
Enjoy the cosines the Autumn brings, and we'll be back in the winter for more ideas and inspiration
Best Wishes
Tr a c y Mea kins
Managing Director
Becom e Par t of th e P& L O Facebook Gr ou p
It?s so helpful to be part of a community of like-minded people who talk about something that interests you and supports your profession However, being a teacher doesn? t leave you with much time to go to regular meets outside of your career and personal life That?s why we have created a Facebook group where
you can meet like-minded teachers and education specialists online to discuss any ideas and tips you have for outdoor play and learning ideas, all from the comfort of your home or staff room.
The idea of this online group is so you can gather and share ideas, discuss what has worked for you enabling you to hold outdoor sessions that work out perfectly for both you and your pupils.
We'll also be sharing weekly posts with lot's of outdoor play and
How can you join t he group? If you have a Facebook profile, it?s really simple, search Out door Play & Learning Ideas for Schools UK in Facebook, click the join button, answer the questions, hit submit, and you?re in!
Alternatively, scan the QR code here:
HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR PLAYGROUND
Even the smallest outdoor spaces can be transformed into inspiring areas for learning and play, especially with a school canopy Whether you?re working in a compact urban nursery or simply looking to optimise your current outdoor provision, there are creative ways to enhance your early years environment and support the goals of the EYFSframework
Outdoor learning is a vital part of early development, encouraging children to explore, imagine, and engage with the world around them But when space is limited, it can be challenging to provide an area that is both accessible and enriching At Able Canopies, we believe that with a little planning and the right resources, any outdoor space? no matter how small? can become a valuable extension of your classroom
Here are our top tips for making the most of limited outdoor space:
St art w it h a Plan
Before making any changes, take time to evaluate your space
Create a scaled drawing to visualise how different features could fit Don? t overlook areas like narrow pathways, unused corners, or empty flower beds; these spots often hold untapped potential for small-group activities, nature-based learning, or quiet zones.
Underst and t he Needs of Your Children
Tailor your outdoor space to the different age groups within your setting Ask the children what they would enjoy, whether it?s a peaceful space to relax, a creative corner, or a more active play zone Their feedback will help you design an environment they feel connected to and excited about
Ut ilise Your Vert ical Space
When floor space is tight, go vertical Outdoor walls can host chalkboards, magnetic boards, sensory panels, or colourful murals. If walls aren? t available, post-mounted play panels are a versatile and cost-effective option These interactive features not only save space but also add valuable learning opportunities
Incorporat e Flexible Resources
Sand and water play are ideal for compact outdoor areas, as they encourage sensory exploration and are suitable for all ages By adding canopies or covers, such as our Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy, you can ensure these areas remain usable in all weather conditions, offering both sun protection and rain shelter
Keep
it
Fresh and Engaging
Introduce a rotation of outdoor resources to maintain interest and variety Items like balls, hoops, scooters, musical instruments, and seasonal materials (such as leaves, snow, or twigs) help children engage with their environment in new ways. Natural play elements can also enhance sensory development and spark curiosity
Make Sure It ?s Accessible t o All
Accessibility is key. Your outdoor space should be inclusive for children with mobility challenges, sensory impairments, or other additional needs Consider surface materials, ramp access, and sensory-friendly zones.
Provide Year-Round Use
Outdoor learning shouldn? t be limited by the weather A permanent canopy or shelter allows children to enjoy the space throughout the seasons, whether it?s raining or bright and sunny Our canopies, including the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy, are designed to offer excellent UVprotection and reliable shelter, making them a smart and affordable solution for early years settings
With thoughtful planning and a few clever additions, even the most compact outdoor spaces can offer rich and rewarding learning opportunities
CASE STUDY: GREENVALE SCHOOL, LONDON
Facilit ies Managem ent Com pany: Equans
Product : Able Shade Sail Array
Size: 6m x 5.8m x 6m x 6.4m & 6.4m x 6m x 5.4m x 6m
Fabric Colour: Aquamarine
Inst allat ion Dat e: July & August 2025
Inst allat ion Durat ion: Posts - x2 days & Sails ?x1 day
The Brief
Greenvale School is an existing customer of Able Canopies, having invested in two Coniston Wall Mounted Canopies in the past. They are based in Lewisham, London and are a community special school for secondary aged pupils with severe learning difficulties
Their Waters Road site was purpose built under the Building Schools for the Future program in 2007 and caters for their KS3 and KS4 students. This means that the school is a PFI (Private Finance Initiative) which is managed by the facilities division of Equans
Equans are also an existing customer of Able Canopies; we
Int ended Use: Sensory Garden Shade Above:Both shadesail designs
have worked with them in the past on numerous other schools they manage. Their Operations Manager therefore got in touch with us in March 2025 to discuss shade and shelter options at the school?s Waters Road site, as they were looking to cover an area in their sensory garden
The Solut ion
After completing a full site survey at the school, we were able to provide Equans with a full quotation as requested. At the site survey, it was discovered that a shade sail array would fit the schools requirements perfectly for their sensory garden They were looking to create a cool, shaded area and shade sails are perfect
for exactly that. They are available in a range of playful and subtle tones, allowing you to create the ambiance that would match the setting perfectly
To help the school choose the right colour, we sent them some shade sail fabric samples in the post, so they could see the colours in person. Various computer screens can cause colours to appear different, so seeing them in person helped the school colour match the area perfectly, ensuring they would be happy with the end result
Both the school and Equans were delighted with the design proposal and placed an order for the shade sails for a summer holiday installation
The Inst allat ion
When installing shade sails, we install the posts and leave them to set fully which takes 3-5 weeks We then return to site to install the shade sail fabric. Ensuring the posts are fully set before installing the fabric
means we can fully tension the fabric to ensure there is no sagging, and that the school is left with a high-quality shade sail array that creates a striking focal point to their outdoor area
We installed the shade sail posts at Greenvale School over two days in July 2025, and returned
to site in August to install the fabric sails within just one day.
We think the end results looks great and the Aquamarine fabric sets the area off perfectly, creating a stylish, shaded sensory area within the school grounds
Above:BeforetheShade Sail installation
Above& Below:After theShade Sail installation
INTRODUCING OUR BRAND-NEW BROCHURE FEATURING OUR LATEST PRODUCT RANGES
We are delighted to announce the launch of our brand-new brochure which showcases the very latest additions to the Able Canopies product range along with a fresh new look that reflects our continued commitment to quality, innovation, and customer-focused solutions.
This exciting new edition introduces our cost-effective entrance canopies which are compact yet robust structures developed in response to the demand for high-quality shelters at an affordable price.
Designed with smaller budgets in mind, these stylish entrance canopies provide reliable weather protection and instant visual appeal for a wide range of commercial settings, including schools, healthcare facilities, offices, and retail premises.
In addition, we are proud to unveil our new range of polycarbonate glazing systems, a versatile solution ideal for use in canopy construction, outdoor shelters, and architectural glazing projects Lightweight, durable, and high-performing, our polycarbonate systems offer excellent light
transmission and UV protection while maintaining long-term structural integrity ? making them a smart choice for modern outdoor environments
But that?s not all ? our new brochure features an all-new design and layout, giving it a fresh, contemporary look that reflects the evolution of the Able Canopies brand With improved navigation, updated project photography, and easy-to-understand product information, it?s now easier than ever for schools such as yourselves to explore our full product range and find the perfect solution for their next project.
Whether you?re planning a new area, upgrading an
existing space, or working to a tight budget, our latest offerings ensure you have access to the quality, flexibility, and value that Able Canopies is known for, all backed by our comprehensive design, manufacture and installation service
Dow nload a Copy Today
To download a copy of the new brochure or to speak with a member of our team about your next canopy project, please visit our website:
w w w.ablecanopies.co.uk
We look forward to supporting you with your outdoor cover requirements, and helping you make the most of your outdoor space.
SAVE THE ENVIRONMENT AND RAISE MONEY FOR YOUR SCHOOL
Recycling is a fantastic way for schools and nurseries to make a positive impact on the planet while generating extra funds for important projects like a new school canopy However, not every recycling scheme will suit your setting, so it?s worth exploring different options to see which works best for your community
A great starting point is to send a short survey home to parents and carers. This will help identify which items families are most able to recycle regularly, allowing you to choose a scheme that benefits both your school and the environment
Below is a guide to some popular recycling schemes and the types of items they accept:
Tin Cans
Schem e: Think Cans ? Cash for Cans
This initiative offers a ?cash for cans?service to schools and charities, rewarding you for every aluminium can recycled Alongside cash rewards, you?ll receive free posters, leaflets, and potentially free recycling boxes and bags. Their website also provides engaging educational activities and information sheets to help pupils understand the value of recycling.
Clot hing, Shoes & Accessories
Schem e: Bag 2 School
Bag 2 School offers £500 per tonne (that?s 50p per kilo) of clothing collected They accept a wide range of items including clothing, shoes, bags, belts, hats, scarves, soft toys, and even jewellery.
80%of clothing collected is reused in countries across Eastern and Western Europe, Africa, and Asia
The remainder is recycled into products such as blankets, socks, and industrial materials. You?ll also receive free promotional posters and collection bags to make organising the scheme easy
Difficult -t o-Recycle It em s
Schem e: TerraCycle
TerraCycle specialises in recycling items that are difficult to process through regular household systems, including certain packaging and hard-to-recycle
plastics Collected materials are repurposed into affordable, eco-friendly products
Schools earn 2p per item, which can be donated
to your own setting or another chosen charity.
Many of their recycling programmes are free to join and supported by well-known brands
Get t ing St art ed
There are countless recycling companies across the UK, so it?s worth researching which ones operate in your area and offer the best returns for your needs. Whether you choose one scheme or a combination, the benefits are clear and, less waste going to landfill, more resources for your school, and a greener future for the next generation
By embracing a recycling programme, your school can truly save the environment and raise money, a win-win for both your pupils and the planet
CROWDFUNDING FOR SECONDARY SCHOOLS
Crowdfunding for secondary schools is becoming an increasingly popular and effective way to raise money for school projects and equipment. While traditional fundraising methods are still widely used, crowdfunding offers a more modern, inclusive, and educational approach
What is Crow dfunding?
Crowdfunding involves raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, usually through an online platform It allows schools to reach beyond their immediate community and engage supporters from far and wide.
There are different types of crowdfunding, but the most relevant for schools is the donation-based model This is where contributors give money towards a cause without expecting anything in return, although some campaigns may offer small rewards as a thank you
Crowdfunding is perfect for educational projects, where the goal is to fund initiatives that benefit pupils, staff, and the wider school environment
Why Crow dfunding Works for Secondary Schools
Crowdfunding is not just about raising money, it?s also a valuable learning experience. Campaigns can be integrated into the curriculum, offering opportunities for students to build skills in:
- Communication and marketing
- Budgeting and financial planning
- Digital literacy and online engagement
- Teamwork and project management
With guidance from staff, pupils can take an active role in running the campaign, making it rewarding and empowering
Schools can tap into a network of supporters, including parents, teachers, PTAs, and local businesses,creating a community-focused effort that brings people together
7 St eps t o Launch a Successful Crow dfunding Cam paign
1 Have a Clear Focus
Select a project that pupils can relate to perhaps something linked to the curriculum or school improvements.
2 Choose a Plat form
Research platforms that suit educational causes. Options like GoFundMe, JustGiving, or Crowdfunder often have features tailored to schools
3 Set a Realist ic Target
Work with pupils to identify costs and create a detailed budget
This helps build transparency and trust with potential donors
4 Plan Your Rew ards (Opt ional)
While not essential, offering small rewards, like cards or shout-outs on social media can boost engagement
5. Creat e a Com pelling Cam paign Pit ch
Use videos, photos, and clear messaging to explain what the campaign is for, who it benefits, and why it matters
6 PR & Social Media Prom ot ion
Share your campaign widely across your school newsletter, website, local press & social platforms to increase visibility.
7 Creat e a Cam paign Tim eline
Set a launch date and outline key milestones. Assign daily or weekly tasks to keep momentum going and maintain engagement throughout the campaign
CHILDREN CAN GAIN MORE KNOWLEDGE WHEN LEARNING OUTSIDE
There is growing evidence that children gain more knowledge when learning outside. Whether they?re exploring natural textures, investigating wildlife, or simply moving around in the fresh air, outdoor learning stimulates curiosity and helps reinforce educational outcomes far beyond what?s possible within the four walls of a classroom.
In Devon, a passionate group of educators and organisations formed the Growing Devon Schools Partnership, a collective that champions outdoor education across the region Their mission is clear: to support schools in delivering engaging, hands-on learning experiences in nature The partnership has developed a dedicated website full of resources, advice, and funding opportunities to help schools introduce or expand their outdoor learning provision
But outdoor learning isn? t limited to Devon Schools across the UK
are increasingly embracing the outdoors as a rich, versatile teaching environment, and with the right shelter in place, they can do so all year round.
Canopies Make Out door
Learning Possible in Any Weat her
At Able Canopies, we?ve seen firsthand how our freestanding and wall mounted canopies enable schools to create safe, all-weather outdoor classrooms. These structures allow pupils to continue learning outside? rain or shine, while enjoying the benefits of movement, natural light, and sensory engagement
Our most popular option for outdoor classrooms, the Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy, combines robust weather protection with a sleek, unobtrusive design. It?s the ideal solution for extending classroom space and supporting outdoor teaching throughout the seasons
Funding Support for Out door Learning Project s
Schools may be eligible for grants and funding to support the purchase and installation of educational canopies and outdoor learning spaces. These opportunities are available not just in Devon, but across the UK
You can find more details on national funding schemes and tips for securing support on our website
Ready t o Take Learning Out side?
Explore our range of all-weather canopies designed to support outdoor learning. You can also download our free guide, How to Get the Most Out of Your Canopy on our website, for creative ideas on how to incorporate more outdoor activities into your teaching
Because when children are inspired by the world around them, they don? t just learn? they remember, engage, and thrive
LE T ?S G O O U T S I D E BE CAU S E W E CAN
At Able Canopies, we believe that access to safe, engaging outdoor environments isn? t just a luxury? it?s a necessity And when it comes to supporting the health, happiness, and development of children, the simple act of spending time outside can have life-changing benefits It?s time we embraced the idea: Let?s Go Outside Because We Can
W hy O ut d oor T ime
Mat t er s
Spending time outdoors plays a vital role in children?s physical and mental well-being. Unfortunately, modern lifestyles often limit those opportunities. A report from The Children?s Society highlights how today?s children are facing increasing levels of unhappiness? and a major contributing factor is the lack of freedom to play outside
The statistics are eye-opening:
A Guardian survey revealed that 64%of children only play outside once a week
28%haven? t been on a country walk in the past year
Some children even believe that conkers grow on oak trees and that cows hibernate? a clear sign of disconnection from nature
It?s not just about knowledge? it?s about well-being Research from the University of Essex found that just five minutes of outdoor play in a green space can reduce the
risk of obesity and significantly improve mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
T he E d uc at iona l
Ad va nt a ge
Outdoor play isn? t only beneficial for physical and mental health? it supports learning, too
Unstructured outdoor activity encourages:
- Problem-solving skills
- Focus and self-discipline
- Social development
Children who regularly spend time outside are more likely to communicate effectively, cooperate with peers, and show reduced behavioural issues in classroom settings Simply put, outdoor learning builds more confident, engaged learners
Cha nging At t it ud es: Ar e
Ad ult s Hold ing Child r en Ba c k?
Parental concerns around safety have increased over the past few decades? and while well-intentioned, this cautious approach is limiting valuable play opportunities. Since the 1970s, the average distance a child roams from their home has shrunk by 90%
Surprisingly, 43%of adults believe children shouldn? t play outdoors unsupervised until age 14? even in secure spaces like gardens. And yet, statistics show that more
children are injured falling out of bed than from climbing trees Alarmingly, 1 in 5 children under 12 have never climbed a tree at all
Cr eat ing S a f e O ut d oor Sp a c es
We understand the importance of safety, which is why Able Canopies designs secure, sheltered outdoor environments that encourage healthy, open-air experiences? whatever the weather By creating designated outdoor areas such as covered playgrounds, secure gardens, or all-weather school canopies, schools and nurseries can give children the freedom to explore safely
Let?s go outside because we can With the right environment, we can reconnect children with nature, reduce screen time, improve educational outcomes, and nurture happier, healthier futures
SCHOOL CANOPY HIGHLIGHTS
Below isaselectionof our canopyinstallationssinceour last newsletter in June,to provideyouwithinspirationfor your school grounds.
Able Canopies: The Canopy Experts
Canopies & Covered Walkways
Cycle & Waiting Shelters
Shade Sails & Tensile Structures
Able Canopies are the canopy experts We provide safe and stylish weather protection that transforms outside spaces
- Every year we complete hundreds of successful school canopy installations across the UK
- These canopies provide schools with effective shelter & areas for outdoor learning and dining
- We also work with universities and the retail, leisure & hospitality sectors to effectively transform outside space
- Our team of canopy experts work with schools, architects & contractors to ensure on time, on budget, project completion
- To ensure consistent high quality we control the design, manufacture & installation process of our canopies
Awnings & Playground Accessories
External Works: Surfacing, Fencing etc.
" Absolutely outstanding from start to finish.
The contractors working on site were very polite and professional in their job.
Would recommend you and this contractor to anyone."
- Purple Oaks Academy, Northampton Installed April 2025
The Coniston Wall Mounted Canopy installed at Bishop Young Cof EAcademy in West Yorkshire