In educational settings, reducing heat and providing cooling is essential for creating a comfortable, safe, and productive environment for students and staff. With rising temperatures and increased awareness of the impact of extreme heat especially on children, schools are increasingly prioritizing cooling strategies in both playgrounds and outdoor learning areas. Here are some of the best ways to effectively cool outdoor spaces in schools and make your school a safe and enjoyable environment.
1. Increasing Vegetation
Planting trees and other vegetation is one of the most effective ways to reduce heat in outdoor spaces. Vegetation provides natural shade, improves air quality, and helps lower surrounding temperatures. You can read further about the cooling effects of vegetation here. Plant species selection is crucial and schools should opt for fast-growing, hardy vegetation that can thrive in the Australian climate. Popular choices for trees include Syzigium species (Lily Pilly), Macaranga tanarius (Macaranga), and Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Tuckeroo), for more information on tree species for schools read our blog post here. The added benefits of planting vegetation are their contribution to the insulation and energy efficiency of school buildings, promoting biodiversity, as well as creating a visually appealing environment.
2. Built Structures (Covered Walkways, Pavilions, & Shade Sails)
Covered walkways, pergolas and pavilions not only offer protection from the sun but also shield students from rain and inclement weather. These structures can connect different buildings throughout the school campus helping students remain protected as they move around the school campus, as well as enable year round outdoor learning spaces and recreational areas. These structures are primarily constructed using materials such as steel or timber providing long-lasting durability.
Shade sails and canopies are versatile, cost-effective solutions for covering large areas. Shade sails can be custom-designed to fit specific spaces and adjusted as necessary with availability in various shapes, sizes, and colours, adding a vibrant touch to schoolyards while protecting against UV radiation. The disadvantage of shade sails is that they can collect heat underneath and prevent air flow creating very hot environments.
3. Other Cooling Methods (Water Elements, Fans, & Heat-Reflective Colours)
Additional cooling methods can further enhance outdoor comfort. Water features such as misting systems, fountains, and outdoor waterplay can help reduce ambient temperatures in high-use areas. Installing outdoor fans in covered spaces can improve airflow and provide relief on hot days. Using light-coloured or heat-reflective surfaces for pavements, roofs, and playground equipment can reduce heat absorption. Permeable surfaces like grass and mulch help to lower ground temperatures compared to heat-retaining materials such as asphalt and concrete.
Conclusion
Reducing heat and providing cooling in schools requires a combination of natural elements, smart design, and innovative solutions. By increasing vegetation, incorporating well-designed shade structures, selecting appropriate materials, and utilizing additional cooling techniques, schools can create comfortable and sustainable outdoor environments. Encouraging students and staff involvement in these projects fosters a sense of ownership and environmental stewardship, ensuring that schools remain welcoming environments that are able to respond to the future effects of climate change and provide comfortable spaces for future generations. Contact us today for help in creating a strategy and design to reduce the effects of heat within your school’s outdoor spaces.