It took its time but it looks like the British summer is finally here. The blue skies and warm days are the perfect opportunity to get outside and enjoy it while it lasts. However with this heatwave getting us all sizzling in the sunshine, it’s reminded us of the importance of not having too much of a good thing. Staying sun safe is crucial when playing outside, it’s easy to get caught up in a game of rounders or cops and robbers and find yourself turning a bit pink!
The best way to ensure that everyone at school stays sun safe is to provide a sheltered area for play. They’re not just great for taking learning outside during the more miserable months but perfect for giving everyone a rest from the sun in the summer.
We’ve chosen a handful of our favourite shelter projects to show you how you can provide a safe spot for when the sun has got his hat on.
At Bridge Farm Primary School in Somerset, storytelling is an important part of the school day. They wanted to create a space that made it easier to transfer it to the playground throughout the year. Their shelter is used to take lessons outside and is used by the children at break times to put on their own performances inspired by their storytelling curriculum.
As part of a large project to completely redevelop their outdoor space, Garfield Primary School in London included a shelter in their design. Their aim was to increase the connection between the children and the world and they succeeded as the students now love their outdoor space and are more curious about the natural space around them. They chose to create more sheltered areas so that they could use the space in the unpredictable English weather all year round.
For Hallmoor Special School in Warwickshire, being able to enjoy outdoor learning come rain or shine was top priority. They found it was difficult to encourage the children to head into the playground in extreme weather so they wanted to provide an outdoor space that could be used whatever the sky decided to do. The new shelter has enabled them to take lessons outdoors in bright sunshine or rainy grey days. It’s accessible to all of their students and has been used as everything from a show stage to a parent’s waiting area.
We love seeing how you use your Playforce playgrounds in all weathers. Send us your photos on Twitter or Facebook for your chance to be featured on our blog.