Top 5 Shade Solutions for Schools & Playgrounds

Providing safe and durable shade solutions for schools and playgrounds is crucial for protecting tamariki and rangatahi from harmful UV rays. It’s also about creating a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor environment.

With over 20 years of expertise in the field, Sunshade has developed a reputation for creating custom-designed, high-quality shade systems that cater to the unique needs of the ed sector.

Here our team cover off the top five shade solutions specifically designed for schools and early childhood centres, focusing on safety and durability. 

1. Exterior Classroom Shades

Classroom environments are made much more livable through exterior shading solutions that reduce glare and heat inside. For example, Ziptrak® mesh screens and exterior shade sails are perfect for classrooms exposed to the sun.

These solutions not only protect students from UV exposure and heat but also enhance the learning environment by minimising glare on screens and whiteboards. Custom-fitted to the veranda or building, shades can improve comfort and energy efficiency.

2. Playgrounds

Playgrounds require robust and safe shading solutions to protect children while at play. Shade sails and outdoor shade structures are ideal for these areas, providing extensive UV protection and durability.

Experienced shade sail designers will ensure height and angles are programmed to provide optimum coverage at key times of the day through the year.

Additionally, installing pole pads around playground equipment prevents collisions, enhancing overall health and safety.

3. Seating & Lunch Areas

Shaded seating and lunch areas allow students to enjoy their breaks and meals in comfort. Using outdoor shade sails, shade structures, and commercial-strength Shade7 umbrellas, these areas can be shaded, reducing glare, heat and providing high UVR protection.

Sunshade consultants use 3D modeling to design these spaces, ensuring maximum coverage tailored to the school’s layout and sun trajectory.

4. School Pool Coverage

Ensuring adequate shade over school pools is essential for protecting children from excessive sun exposure while they swim and spectate.

Custom-designed shade sails or outdoor shade structures provide optimal coverage, offering up to 95.8% UVR block depending on the fabric colour. These solutions enhance the safety and usability of the pool area. Choosing a high-quality textile will also ensure colour-fastness for years to come.

5. Sandpits

Sandpits are popular play areas that need effective shading to protect younger children from direct sunlight. Our shade sails for sandpits keep these areas cool and safe for extended play, using high UVR block fabrics to maintain a comfortable temperature and protect sensitive skin.

Sandpit covers made from durable, UV-resistant materials, protect toys and keep the sandpit clean overnight. Custom-designed to fit the sandpit shape and for practical application, straps and toggles can be designed to ensure an easy job for the teachers at the start and end of the day.

Why Choose Sunshade?

Benefit from Sunshade’s 20+ years’ creating amazing shade + screen spaces for NZ’s young people. At Sunshade, we bring you innovative ideas for getting more use out of your outdoor areas. Sunshade excels in designing and installing shade solutions for kohanga to high schools.

• Experience. Our local experts understand the specific needs of educational settings and use 3D modeling to tailor shade solutions to each school’s layout and sun path.
• Durable & colour-fast. Our fabrics offer up to 95.8% UVR block, depending on the colour choice of fabric. They can provide superior protection against harmful sun exposure.
• We know schools. Understanding the importance of maintaining a safe and uninterrupted school environment, our install process is flexible and designed to minimise disruption, with careful consideration of school schedules and health and safety requirements.

Budgets & helping you achieve the investment

Outdoor weather protection can be a significant investment, especially with tight budgets and funding opportunities.

We provide clear, upfront costs to avoid unexpected expenses, and can break the project up into chunks if needed. If fundraising is required, you’ll know your targets and can be assured your budget will stay on track. Let us know your scenario and we can work in with your needs.

By choosing Sunshade, schools and playgrounds can benefit from expertly designed shade solutions that prioritise safety, durability, and maximum UV protection, enhancing the overall outdoor experience for all students.

Talk to your Local Sunshade specialist in shade + screen today and find out how we can help keep your Tamariki safe and shades looking awesome for years to come!