Nelson Primary School – Tarnhow Curved Freestanding Timber Canopy Case Study
Client: New Vision Trust
Product: Tarnhow Curved Freestanding Canopy
Size: 13m x 5.5m
Timber Stain Colour: Nutwood
Installation Date: January 2025
Intended Use: Outdoor Learning Shelter
Brief
Nelson Primary School, located in East Ham, London, is one of the largest primary schools in the country, catering to children aged 3 to 11. The school’s historic three-storey building, originally constructed in 1901, has seen multiple modern additions over the years to ensure that its facilities remain up to date and provide the best possible learning environment for its pupils. With a motto of “Inspiring Ambition, Achieving Success,” Nelson Primary School is committed to continuously improving its facilities to support the development and success of its students.
As part of New Vision Trust, a London-based academy trust, Nelson Primary School joins a network of schools dedicated to excellence in education. Able Canopies has previously supplied and installed canopies for several other schools within the trust, including Elmhurst Primary School, Vicarage Primary School and Gallions Primary School.
To further enhance its learning environment, Nelson Primary School sought to install a large timber canopy adjacent to one of the classrooms in its Key Stage 1 building. The goal was to create a functional and friendly, pleasing, sheltered outdoor space.
The project was initiated by Dave Tillman, Director of Spring (Cultivated) Ltd, specialists in school grounds development across East London. Having worked closely with the school on various projects, Dave contacted us to request a quote for a bespoke timber canopy that would meet the school’s needs. Following the enquiry, Able Canopies arranged a site survey in October 2024 to assess the outdoor space and determine the best canopy solution for the school.
Proposal
To meet the school’s requirements, we recommended the Tarnhow Curved Freestanding Timber Canopy, designed to provide reliable weather protection for outdoor learning and play in the designated area.
In late October, we prepared and submitted a detailed proposal for a 13m x 5.5m timber canopy, finished in a Nutwood stain. This solution was designed to meet all the school’s functional needs while complementing its existing aesthetic.
Installation
In December 2024, Nelson Primary School placed an order for a Tarnhow Curved Freestanding Timber Canopy to enhance their outdoor learning and play space. By January 2025, we successfully supplied and installed the canopy, complete with Green Post Pads for added safety. Following the installation, Spring (Cultivated) Ltd fitted artificial grass beneath the canopy to complete the transformation.
With the new canopy in place, the staff and students at Nelson Primary School were delighted with the results. This weather-protected outdoor space will enable students to learn and play outside year-round, a proven benefit to both their education and overall well-being.
We are proud to have contributed to creating a more engaging and versatile learning environment for the school!
If you require a canopy for your school, contact us today to discover the perfect solution.
