A New Outdoor Learning Canopy and Shade Sail at Aldwickbury School

Aldwickbury School in Harpenden, Hertfordshire is a well-established independent preparatory school.

Like many schools, however, it faced a practical challenge with its pre-prep playground. The area was grassed and prone to becoming muddy, which meant it was largely unusable during the wetter winter months and limited outdoor use to part of the year.

To address this, the school worked with Kensington Systems to improve the space and make it usable year-round. The solution combined the installation of a Spaceshade canopy and shade sail over the play area with the replacement of the existing grass surface with durable artificial turf.

Together, these changes created a sheltered, robust outdoor environment that could be used in all seasons.

Kensington Systems delivered the project on a turnkey basis, covering groundworks, astroturf installation, canopy and sail installation, and the addition of post protectors to meet the school’s requirements.

The completed scheme has transformed the playground into a practical, weather-resilient space that supports outdoor play and learning throughout the year.

'Kensington Systems were outstanding from start to finish! Laurie and the team kept us informed throughout the project and worked at speed to complete the job within our time frames.

We now have a space that is used all year round, which brings the outside in, on our wonderful site. The area has transformed teaching and learning opportunities and most importantly further strengthened friendships made through play and outdoor learning!'

Paul Symes, Headmaster

'What an addition to our School and a great place for the boys to play and learn - thanks to all at Kensington Systems.' 

Ianek McLaughlin, Bursar

If you’re considering an upgrade to your outdoor space, we’d be happy to discuss your requirements and explore suitable canopy and surface solutions for year-round use.