Schools and education settings continue to work incredibly hard to keep staff and students safe as they plan a return to the classroom and an exit from lockdown.
The coronavirus pandemic has not only made us think about the way we operate now, but also how our buildings and spaces might need to function in the future.
The roadmap out of the current national lockdown has been announced just days after details of the first phase of transformative school rebuilding programme were released.
And as schools are among the first to return to a more structured daily routine over the next few weeks, both programmes call for a focus on how surroundings can support a positive – and safe - school culture.
With acute awareness of health and hygiene, the return to lessons – whether in a new school 12 months down the line or an existing building with enhanced protocols by next month – is forcing greater scrutiny of our education buildings.
Space and flexibility
Flexible space that can be utilised for a wide range of purposes has been the saving grace of many schools grappling with the logistics of enabling safe movement or reducing the need to travel.
Making use of the natural ventilation afforded by exterior areas is balanced with efforts to create safe, stimulating and comfortable learning environments.
And making use of school grounds to take the pressure off indoor areas seems to be a practical way forward – not just in terms of retrofit but also when looking at rebuilding.
In both cases, Broxap can offer its expertise.
Going beyond four walls
Whether it is a case of safely maximising a small space or realising the potential of a large outside area, Broxap has many years of experience in helping schools embrace the great outdoors.
Taking learning beyond the classroom is becoming more commonplace. A previously neglected or overlooked patch of land can bring vital benefits with the addition of a simple, cost-effective canopy.
Broxap’s role in the changing and varied nature of shelter applications has resulted in the highest quality range of products available in the UK.
Thoughtful in design and secure in structure, our shelters are intended to form part of an environment which aids and encourages learning.
At Wistaston Academy, in Crewe, Broxap designed a version of the Newcastle Monopitch shelter featuring integrated roller shutter security doors and side panels made of PETg UV to filter harmful rays. This created a safe space to be comfortably used in all weather.
The flexibility that comes with incorporating a shelter into a school design can also benefit students during break or lunch times.
At Balcarras School in Cheltenham, an awkward space between two existing buildings was given new purpose with a Cambridge Cantilever shelter. This created a covered dining area with impressive capacity.
And as well as improving functionality, a shelter can become an important part of a school’s architecture.
At Ysgol Pen Rhos, a new build school on a former copper works in Llanelli, Broxap worked with contractors to deliver a series of stunning, cost-effective canopies.
These sheltered walkways are well lit and well ventilated to support safe movement around the site and look completely at home as part of the premium-finish school construction.
Supporting school vision and values
Motivating young people to make use of outdoor learning and wellbeing experiences is often more effective with the right resources.
Making a statement about sustainability now can add value to a school premises in the future.
At Broxap, our experience of working with national framework contractors has resulted in a collection of progressive products to ensure positive experiences for students, staff and visitors.
At Aureus Primary School in Didcot, Oxfordshire, we supplied a range of cycle parking solutions as well as a series of entrance canopies.
The Sheffield Cycle Racks and Scooter Racks installed at the state-of-the-art new build school support its vision to encourage children to lead healthy lives.
At Ursuline Preparatory School, in London, the brief was to create a covered area where children could stage concerts, presentations and other events.
Our designers worked with the appointed architect to engineer a curved mono-pitch structure to frame and protect performers without spoiling the audience’s view.
Quality in every last detail
Broxap believes in products that are designed to be used – that means producing external furniture, shelters and outdoor play, sport and fitness equipment that can withstand more than just daily wear and tear.
Our litter bins are the toughest in the UK, the Broxap seating collection is highly durable and our range of bollards are extremely strong, ensuring every investment – particularly when it comes to education budgets - delivers value for money.
At Porth Community School in Mid Glamorgan, Broxap was selected to provide not just a series of canopies, but also a portfolio of site fittings including Derby Eros Litter Bins, Stainless Steel Bollards, Willenhall Seats and Tiptree Picnic Units.
At Oaklands School in Hounslow, working with contractor Farrans Construction, we provided outdoor gym equipment from our Sunshine Gym division as well as a Forest Story House from our specialist playground business Hand Made Places.
Choose Broxap as your school building project single source partner. Get in touch today.