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Wimbledon High School – Outdoor Learning & Classroom Cooling Solutions

Expanding Shaded Space for a Modern Learning Environment

Wimbledon High School, an independent day school for girls in South West London, wanted to enhance both its outdoor and indoor learning environments. With more pupils spending time outside and growing awareness of the impact of heat and glare in classrooms, the school sought a professional shading and shelter solution that would protect students and staff, support flexible outdoor teaching, and reflect the school’s modern architectural style.

This project was part of a wider initiative to improve wellbeing and ensure compliance with the school’s duty of care - providing safe, comfortable spaces conducive to learning in all weather conditions.

The Challenge

The school’s playground and teaching courtyards lacked effective shade, leaving students exposed during peak sunlight hours.
Certain classrooms experienced excessive solar gain, resulting in overheating and glare that affected concentration.
The school required a solution that combined aesthetics, durability and low maintenance, while meeting strict safety standards for educational environments.
There was also growing interest in accessing local grant funding for school shading solutions, available to schools investing in sustainable and health-focused facilities.

The Solution

Our expert team conducted a full site survey and proposed a combination of R220 retractable canopy systems and R116 fixed shelters, both designed to deliver versatile and long-lasting school shading.

Key features included:

Aluminium structure with integrated drainage and optional lighting for year-round use
Retractable roof system to control light and ventilation in outdoor areas
Clear polycarbonate fixed roof shelters for continuous weather protection
Powder-coated finishes in neutral tones to complement the school’s façade
Optional side screens for additional comfort and shelter

This mix of permanent and retractable solutions allowed the school to maximise its outdoor teaching space while reducing internal heat levels - a significant win for both learning outcomes and sustainability.

The Results

Created an all-weather outdoor learning area now used for lessons, lunch breaks and assemblies.
Reduced classroom temperatures and glare, improving student comfort and concentration.
Demonstrated the school’s proactive commitment to pupil wellbeing and duty of care responsibilities.
Supported the school’s environmental goals and opened up opportunities to benefit from government and local education grants that promote sustainable shading and energy efficiency.

“Just to say that the canopies are fantastic. They look great and complete the building and you can feel a reduction in heat. Staff were keen last week to have their doors open and let in the air. They’re going to prove really useful and have already provided additional space for things such as an igloo tent!”
Kate Mitchell - Head of Wimbledon High Junior School

Why This Matters for Schools

Across Southern England, rising classroom temperatures and limited outdoor shade are growing concerns. Projects like this help schools:

Meet health and safety and duty of care requirements for pupil protection.
Qualify for school shading grants and environmental funding schemes.
Support curriculum-led outdoor learning and wellbeing activities.
Reduce energy use by limiting the need for artificial cooling systems.

Complete Turnkey Service

At Broadview, we provide full end-to-end service for education clients - from initial consultation and design to professional installation and aftercare. Our expertise covers school canopies, outdoor shelters, pergolas, awnings and classroom blinds, including groundworks where required.

Whether you’re enhancing playground areas or tackling classroom overheating, our tailored school shading solutions ensure safe, modern and sustainable learning environments.

Contact us today to arrange a free consultation and discover how your school can benefit from grant-assisted outdoor learning shelters and classroom cooling systems.

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If you'd like a member of our team to give you a call to talk through your requirements just contact us and we'll be in touch as soon as possible.

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