Canopies for Education

Affordable, multi-use canopies for schools and the education sector 

Expand your outdoor education and dining with our high-quality, weather resistant canopies and shelters. 

Up to three times cheaper than a traditional extension and often requiring no planning permission, Spaceshade® canopies are trusted by education providers throughout the UK. These canopies can also be fitted with solar roofs, delivering on your decarbonisation targets and reducing energy costs.

Our products span the entire education sector, including nurseries, primary schools, secondary schools, universities and more.

Contact Us Today
Download brochure
Spaceshade School Canopy

What our customers say

'A valuable asset'

'This has been a valuable asset to the school, with a very quick and cost effective installation - thank you to all at Kensington Systems!'

David Rushton - The Hart School

Our products

Our comprehensive range of canopies and shelters for schools gives your students more space to learn, play and socialise.

solar roof canopies

Solar Canopies 

Decrease carbon emissions, reduce energy bills, and access a wider range of funding opportunities with our solar roof canopies for schools. This is an ideal solution if an existing building’s roof is unsuitable for solar panels, or has maximised its solar use.

View our solar canopies
Large school dining canopy

Outdoor dining canopies

In need of more covered outdoor dining spaces? Increase your overall pupil capacity and funding allowance with our outdoor dining canopies for schools. Due to the modular design, our shelters are suitable for either large courtyards or tight spaces and can be easily expanded. Fast and cost-effective to install, our outdoor dining canopies are a great way to create emergency and long-term spaces in the education sector.

View our outdoor dining canopies
School canopy enclosed

Enclosed school canopies

Protect your students whatever the weather, with our Spaceshade® enclosed canopies. Side wall options include toughened glass, impact-resistant polycarbonate, and wind-resistant motorised blinds to create a robust and weather-proof outdoor space.

Our enclosed school canopies are particularly suited for all-weather outdoor dining space.

View our enclosed canopies
Canopy inside view copy

MUGA Canopies

Enable your students to play sports year round regardless of weather while creating a high-quality flexible space which is also suitable for everything from dining to exams to school events.

Our modular, clear-span MUGA-shade™ canopies are designed to be installed as quickly and cost-effectively as possible, while minimising carbon impact thanks to the innovative design.

Find out more about our MUGA canopies
Walkway school Canopy

Covered walkways

Keep your staff members and students dry when walking to and from classrooms and buildings with our Spaceshade® covered walkway canopies. These can be fitted with glass side-walls and doors to create a weatherproof environment.

View our covered walkways for schools
Castle Primary School Coloured Canopy

Outdoor learning canopies

Engage your students with our safe, stimulating and visually attractive outdoor learning canopies. Spaceshade® outdoor learning and playground canopies are customisable, with coloured roofs, all-weather sidewalls and a wide range of frame colours available. It’s time to put the ‘play’ back in playground.

Find out more about our playground canopies
Shade Sails for schools

Shade sails

Provide students with vital UV protection and enjoy the outdoor areas even on the hottest days with playground shade sails. Available in a wide range of shapes and sizes, these shades create a colourful and fun playground feature.

Find out more about our playground shade sails
timber school shelter

Timber canopies for schools

Made from high-quality, play-grade wood, our timber canopies are low maintenance and robust enough to handle harsh weather. And, due to our bespoke sizing service, timber canopies can be installed anywhere.

Find out more about timber canopies
timber outdoor learning pod for schools

Outdoor learning pods

Manufactured from long-lasting, pressure-treated, sustainably-sourced softwood, our outdoor learning pods and canopies combine natural timber beauty with the durability of an aluminium roof system. All the materials we use are fully recyclable, meaning that no components will end up in a landfill.

Find out more about our outdoor learning pods

Budgets Tight?

We partner with Tower Leasing to provide Department for Education-approved operating and finance leases. Leasing makes getting a new school canopy simple and affordable, without the need for a large capital outlay.

Find out more about leasing
Outdoor dining canopy for schools

Featured Case Study

Solar panel canopy cuts energy bills and carbon emissions at Three Peaks Academy

Three Peaks Academy replaced an aging playground shelter with a new, larger canopy with solar panels fitted on top.

The new canopy saves the school an estimated £10,000 per year in electricity bills while providing children with a sheltered area for outdoor play and an extension to their classroom.

Continue reading

What our customers say

'We are already seeing the savings'

"I am extremely pleased with the quality, workmanship, and cost of the canopy installation with added solar panels at Three Peaks Primary. The project was completed to a high standard, and the attention to detail was evident throughout. 

The installation process was smooth and efficient, and the end result has exceeded expectations. We are already seeing the savings for the PV installation. I would highly recommend this service to anyone looking for a reliable and professional solution."

James Nadin, Regional Facilities Manager - Creative Academy Trust

Case study

Outdoor dining canopy installation for Sir Frederick Gibberd College, to improve dining space

To generate additional dining space and relieve overcrowding, we installed a large 24m x 12m dining canopy in St Frederick Gibberd College’s courtyard. The sheltered space is close to the college’s catering pod and helps to keep students safe and dry during bad weather.

Read the full case study
Outdoor Dining Canopy for schools

Benefits of Kensington Systems' canopies for schools & educational purposes

Reliable and trustworthy service

For over 30 years, Kensington Systems has been installing school canopies and shelters for the UK’s education sector, hospitals and businesses, projects for the UK’s schools, hospitals and businesses, and has built a reputation for high-quality products and customer service. 

We guide you every step of the way

Enjoy peace of mind knowing we manage your project from start to finish, including groundwork, installation and surfacing when required. 

Safe and easy to maintain

Our canopies and shelters are safe, easy to maintain and include features like non-fragile roofs, concealed fixings and built-in gutters and downpipes.

DBS-checked installers

Our school canopy installations are carried out by DBS-checked installers to ensure your students and staff remain safe at all times.

Exceptional service

Our reputation for high-quality, long-lasting solutions is built on our exceptional customer service, as well as constant innovation and continual improvement.

25-year warranty

Durable and corrosion-free, all our Spaceshade® school canopy frames come with a 25 year warranty.

Free site survey

We aim to be on-site within five working days of receiving your request; we’ll follow up with a no-obligation quote and bespoke visual. In some cases, an initial call may be helpful to establish your broad requirements first.

Smart and adaptable

We’re committed to creating sustainable, future-proof products for the education sector, including canopies with inbuilt solar panels to generate renewable energy.

Bespoke solutions

Our solutions are flexible and tailored to suit your needs. Our modular system allows us to design solutions that use your space as efficiently as possible.

Would you like to know more?

If you’d like to learn more about our bespoke outdoor canopies and shelters for the education sector, download our brochure.

Download our school canopies brochure
Spaceshade Walkway Canopy For Schools

Case study

Creating more outdoor space for Royal Docks Academy

A covered outdoor space was essential to expand the facilities and support the well-renowned special education program at Royal Docks Academy. To achieve this, we installed a Spaceshade® canopy for the school, allowing specialist outdoor facilities, including wheelchair swings, to be utilised regardless of British weather conditions.

Read the full case study
Royal Docks Academy School Canopy

Case study

Multiple canopy and shade sail installations at Saint Dunstan's College

We installed two school canopies and a playground shade sail at Saint Dunstan's College, to provide a significant amount of extra covered space for outdoor learning and covered play. The staff and children now have options in where they want to be, whatever the weather.

Read the full case study
Playground shade sails for schools

case study

SpaceMax solar canopy provides dining space for over 200 pupils at Cleeve School

With glass walls, heating, lighting and 40 solar panels on the roof, this dining canopy has space for over 200 students to eat and socialise.

Continue reading
Cleeve School canopy (10)

Looking to start your canopy project today?

Interested in installing a canopy for your school, college or university? We’re here to make the process as easy as possible. 

Simply get in touch with our team to kickstart the process. First, we’ll come to your site for a no-obligation survey and provide a quote. Then, you’ll receive a bespoke visualisation of your canopy so you can picture exactly what the installation will look like.

Take the first steps today
Spaceshade School Canopy Colourful

"The work was started and completed as scheduled and to budget: we are very pleased with the structure, it enhances the appearance of the building."

Graham Newman
Facilities Manager, The Pines School, Sutton

"The Spaceshade canopies installed at our new school are very robust, look fantastic, we are very impressed by the ongoing service levels received by Kensington Systems Ltd. We would recommend them to any school or academy trust looking for a new covered space or shaded area."

Craig Davis
Facilities Manager, Perry Court Primary Academy, Bristol

"I am writing to express my thanks for the work your company completed for us during the half term break. It was a pleasure to come back to school today to find not only was all the work completed as per the schedule but unlike some of the other contractors on site, each area your people worked in was left totally clean and tidy."

Bob Henstridge
Technical Services Manager, Belfairs High School
Man surveying grounds for school canopy
Spaceshade Walkway
Man installing solar panel

Where in the UK do you install your canopies?

We are based in Bristol, but install canopies for schools all across the UK, including Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and the Isle of Wight.

What is a school canopy

A school canopy is an outdoor shelter which is frequently used in schools to create extra covered space. Canopies can be used for outdoor learning and play, as walkways or to create extra dining space.

School canopies come in many different materials and designs, including aluminium canopies, timber canopies and tensile fabric canopies and sails. They can also be adapted to your needs by installing side walls, retractable blinds, lighting, heating and more. Find out more about the differences between school canopies, shelters and awnings.

School canopy prices

The cost of your playground canopy will depend on a number of factors, including overall size, extent of groundworks, and choice of extras like side walls. As a general rule, you can expect to pay between £500-£800 (ex VAT) per sqm for a fully installed canopy (including groundworks), depending on the size and circumstances. The cost per sqm generally reduces as the canopy increases in size.

Read more about the factors that affect the cost of a canopy.

What are the benefits of canopies for schools?

Canopies for schools have several benefits, which include:

Creating valuable covered space which can be used for teaching or outdoor play
A dining canopy or playground shelter provides cost-effective additional space compared to an extension
Canopies allow outdoor learning and play to take place throughout the year without being dependent on weather conditions.
Outdoor learning is encouraged by Ofsted and has proven benefits for childrens’ physical and mental health as well as their social development.
Find out more about the benefits of playground shelters and dining canopies

How long does a canopy take to install?

Our lead times are generally between 6-8 weeks from paying a deposit to installation. They can be dependent on the complexity of the project, availability of labour and whether you have chosen a non-standard colour. If you want your canopy to installed during a busy period like the summer break, ordering as early as possible will help to guarantee your preferred slot.

Do I need planning permission for a school canopy?

It is always best to check with your local authority whether planning permission is required.

The canopy may fall under Permitted Development guidelines if it is less than 5m from the school boundary and is less than 25% of the total footprint of the building or less than 100 sqm (whichever is less) and has a total height of less than 5m.
If you are planning a very large structure however, planning is likely to be required.
Kensington Systems can provide you with bespoke CGI visualisations to help you apply for planning.
Read more about applying for planning permission for your canopy.

Do you have enhanced DBS accreditation?

Yes, our installers and project management staff hold enhanced-DBS certification, enabling them to work on site without direct supervision if required.

What are the benefits of a canopy for school playgrounds?

A canopy can be beneficial in your school playground as it can be used to create extra covered space, outdoors. Adding a canopy to your playground can add space for outdoor learning, outdoor dining or simply as an area for pupils to play under shelter.

Why choose sail canopies for schools?

Sail canopies are a perfect option for UV protection and shelter in outdoor areas for schools. Their shapes and colours make them an attractive option for schools as they can be personalised to meet the school’s needs.

Learn more about shade sails.

Why choose timber canopies in schools?

Our timber canopies are a low-cost, sustainable canopy solution for schools. Whether they be installed for a small covered seating area or an additional space for outdoor learning, timber canopies can be made to meet any size, bespoke to your school needs.

Learn more about timber canopies.

case study

Red Outdoor Dining Area at Nether Stowe School

A bright red dining canopy (matching the school's colours) provides practical shelter for dining space as well as vibrant colour in a sheltered courtyard at Nether Stowe School.

Continue Reading
covered walkway canopy for school

Case study

All-Season Outdoor Play Area Installed at Aldwickbury School

Aldwickbury School wanted an all-weather, all-season play area for their pre-prep boys. They opted for a shade sail and Spaceshade® canopy to fit that brief.

Button text
Playground shade sail

Accreditations

Our team of ISO 9001-accredited experts deliver high quality canopies, shelter and carports to delighted customers within the education, commercial and healthcare sectors, throughout the UK.

CHAS logo
ISO 9001 logo
Planet Mark Logo

Ready to design your school’s next outdoor space?

Get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help. We’ll conduct a full survey and provide a comprehensive quote free of charge. 

Get in touch
White outdoor canopy for school

What Canopy Roof Types are Available?

When selecting a canopy roof for your school, the choice between fragile and non-fragile materials is crucial for safety and durability.

Non-fragile roofs, like those made from multiwall polycarbonate or high-quality laminated glass, provide robust protection against impacts and comply with safety regulations, minimizing the risk of injury.

Polycarbonate is particularly popular due to its strength, UV protection, and cost-effectiveness, while glass offers a stylish finish and good acoustic properties.

Alternatives like GRP and corrugated metal have their drawbacks in terms of impact resistance and aesthetics, respectively.

Additionally, solar panel canopies present an eco-friendly option, combining energy savings with renewable energy generation. 

Read the full blog
Comparing Canopy Roof Types

Sustainability Grants for Schools

 
Schools play a crucial role in the UK's journey towards achieving net zero, contributing significantly to public sector building emissions. The Department of Education offers various grants to aid schools in reducing their carbon footprint and energy costs.
These include the Energy Efficiency Grant, which allocates significant funds for installing solar energy and EV charging points, and the Go Eco Fund, providing support for eco-friendly projects. Additional opportunities include the Veolia Environmental Trust grants for community projects and the National Lottery's Climate Action Fund, which supports large-scale environmental initiatives.
The Mayor of London's Green Energy Fund also offers financial assistance for low-carbon projects, while innovative solutions like solar canopies provide both energy savings and educational benefits.
 
 
Read the full blog
About Us - Our History

What our customers say

'The whole team were extremely easy to work with...the quality of the product is excellent'

'The process was swift and easy to manage. The whole team were extremely easy to work with and were happy to answer any questions concerned. They understood the challenges surrounding projects such as these in schools and were flexible in the organisation of the install.

 

The quality of the product is excellent. We had one issue with a piece disconnecting during some particularly bad weather but the team came out extremely quickly to fix it with no charge.

 

The new canopy has transformed the approach to teaching, allowing for a holistic curriculum to be delivered. It has doubled the teaching space...the coloured roof has brought light to a sunken space that was dark and grey.

 

We are thrilled with the outcome.'

 

Emma Field, School Business Manager at Excalibur Academy Trust

Funding Sources for School Canopies

Despite recent increases in government funding, schools in England continue to face budget constraints, impacting infrastructure improvements like school canopies.
However, multiple funding avenues exist to support these projects. Options include Condition Improvement Funding (CIF) for maintaining and expanding academic buildings, local council grants, and the National Lottery Community Fund.
Schools can also explore partnerships with local businesses and apply for support from organizations like Tesco Bags of Help or Sport England. Trust funds and community-led fundraising activities, such as cake sales and crowdfunding, further provide opportunities to finance school canopies.
Read the full blog
Colourful school canopy

How Much Does a School Canopy Cost?

 
How much a canopy costs is influenced by many considerations, such as modular versus bespoke designs, size, colour options, and materials used. Costs vary with the size of the area, with prices ranging from approximately £500-750 per square meter for areas up to 50 sqm, £450-550 for 50-100 sqm, and £350-450 for areas over 100 sqm.
Additional costs may arise from features like solar panels, side walls, and lighting. Financing options are also available to help schools manage expenses through partnering with Tower Leasing, our finance partner.
Read the full blog
Image 4-4

Is Planning Permission Required for a Canopy Installation?

Typically, planning permission to install a school canopy is needed under Town and Country Planning Legislation, but many canopies qualify as 'permitted development,' exempting them from this requirement.
Key criteria include:
  • The canopy must not be more that 100 sqm or 25% of the total footprint of the building
  • The canopy must be more than 5m from the site boundary
  • The height of the canopy must be less than 5m
For canopies outside these specifications, you'll need to apply to the local authority. Working with a professional helps ensure compliance and expedite the process. 
Read the full blog
Thistley Hough v5

6 Things to Consider Before Installing A Canopy

Before installing a school canopy, careful planning is crucial to ensure it enhances outdoor spaces effectively. Key considerations include:
 
  • Purpose: Determine the intended use, such as storage, dining, play, or as a walkway.
  • Planning Permission: Check if planning permissions or building regulations are required.
  • Safety: Ensure structural integrity and consider hidden safety features.
  • Minimising Disruption: Plan for delivery timing, site access, and waste disposal.
  • Positioning: Evaluate sunlight exposure, weather conditions, and access for maintenance.
  • Groundworks & Drainage: Ensure proper foundations and manage rainwater runoff effectively.
 
These elements help in creating a functional and safe canopy that meets the school's needs.
Read the full blog
Castle Primary School Coloured Canopy 3

Solar Canopies for Schools

Solar canopies present an innovative approach to energy efficiency, combining the benefits of shelter with the ability to generate renewable electricity.
 
Ideal for schools and businesses, these structures integrate solar panels into canopies, providing shade and reducing energy costs. Beyond financial savings, solar canopies contribute to sustainability efforts by decreasing carbon footprints and offering educational opportunities.
 
They are versatile, suitable for various applications, and can be installed at sites regardless of age or location. With the potential for energy cost protection, revenue generation, and enhanced solar capacity, solar canopies offer a compelling return on investment while supporting environmental goals.
Read the full blog
Image 9.1 jpg

From our blog