Shaded areas in schools and sports grounds have many benefits, from maximising outdoor spaces to protecting against harmful UV rays.
Shade isn’t a luxury – it’s a necessity.
The need to avoid excessive sun exposure is well-known in Australia. We know prolonged exposure can cause sunburn, heatstroke, and dehydration. We know sun protection is crucial, with UV radiation causing skin damage, eye damage, and increasing the risk of skin cancer, especially during childhood and adolescence.
In schools, this is particularly important with kids spending time outdoors for play, sports, and other activities. Shaded spaces provide a safe refuge where kids can cool off, rehydrate, and avoid the harsh effects of the UV. Similarly, when spending time outdoors for weekend sports, shade brings welcome relief.
For award-winning outdoor furniture designer and manufacturer, Felton Industries, effective shade also enhances social spaces.
Head of Marketing Mr Drew Mackinnon says shaded areas let students take breaks during recess and chat with friends in comfort.
“These areas become social hubs where kids can build friendships and a sense of community. In the hustle of the school playground, shaded areas become mini community hubs, providing kids with a safe spot to connect, chat, and unwind, all while avoiding sunburn,” he says.
Felton Industries offers a range of options to provide shade in schools.
It has recently launched an octagonal outdoor umbrella, available in various sizes, colours, and branding options. Built to withstand Australian conditions, it provides year-round sun protection and weather resistance for long-lasting performance.
Designed to be open all year round with an 80km/h wind rating, the outdoor umbrella features user-friendly opening and closing mechanisms, including crank or pulley systems.
For schools looking for a more permanent structure, Felton has designed a 6×3 metre Aluminium Skillion Shelter, featuring a sleek six-metre Colorbond roof, providing 18 square metres of shade.
“Schools can easily add shelter over new or existing outdoor furniture with its durable aluminium frame and a 7.6-degree skillion roof design for water runoff,” Mr Mackinnon says.
“The architectural louvre screen gives an extra layer of practical aesthetics.”
For more shade and comfort, Felton’s Deluxe Broad Roof Sheltered Park Setting is the ultimate solution, he says.
“With its Colorbond roof and a design that offers over two square meters of shelter, it’s shade-ready and seats up to eight people,” Mr Mackinnon says.
“Whether you’re a teacher on playground duty watching kids in the playground or a kid looking for a cool spot for recess, the sleek, powder-coated frames look modern, while bolt-down lugs make the shelter safe and reliable.”
Felton’s outdoor shelters are engineered to handle the harsh Australian climate. Materials such as Colorbond roofing and powder-coated aluminium frames are designed for durability and resistance to the elements.
“The ability to withstand wind, rain, and sun without deteriorating means years of shade, while bolt-down footing ensures the structures stay securely in place, even during storms or cyclones, as we’ve recently experienced in New South Wales and Queensland,” Mr Mackinnon says.
“In schools and parks, durability and safety are top priorities.”
Installing high-quality, durable aluminium shade structures is an investment in the comfort and wellbeing of those who use the space.
Creating usable spaces all year round, regardless of the weather, is a win-win Mr Mackinnon says.
“Using infinitely recyclable, locally sourced aluminium ensures it never ends up in landfill, and the solvent-free powder-coating is an eco-friendly solution.
“Whether you need a more comfortable learning environment at school or a relaxing social space in a park, the right shade makes all the difference.”
Want more information? To discuss the best shade for your school, call 1800 834 016, email sales@felton.net.au or visit felton.net.au.
More reading: Felton Industries expands options with new solar-lit sheltered seating
