Roundpeg Outdoor Shelters at John of Rolleston School

It was a pleasure to be involved in a project with John of Rolleston School, to enhance their outdoor learning opportunities, by designing and installing an outdoor shelter. This was intended to facilitate outdoor education in the school’s on-site woodland, regardless of weather conditions and provide protection from the elements.

We had a really positive experience with Round Peg from beginning to end; listening carefully to create a perfectly bespoke product for our needs and responding quickly to communications. I would definitely recommend them to someone looking to create a bespoke outdoor space.

Project Aims

The main objective of this project was to create a durable and accessible outdoor space that could be utilised by the entire school community. By providing a sheltered area, the school aimed to encourage more children to engage with nature, promoting both their well-being and educational experiences. The structures were designed to be user-friendly, allowing students and teachers to transition into outdoor learning seamlessly, even in poor weather conditions.

The Challenges

Throughout the project, the team faced several challenges. One of the primary hurdles was managing concerns from a neighbouring property. The school felt Roundpeg Outdoor Building played a crucial role in resolving these issues by making on-site adaptations, such as adding guttering, to mitigate the impact on neighbours.

Funding was another challenge, and to assist, Roundpeg Outdoor Buildings, worked closely with the school to adjust costs and ensure the project remained financially viable without compromising quality.  Despite some difficulties with the weather, the installation process was smooth and efficient. Our installation team kept minimal disruption to the school’s daily operations. The client commented on how Roundpeg Outdoor Buildings were mindful of environmental impact, using minimal concrete to preserve the natural setting. Our commitment to thoughtful design and quality craftsmanship ensured that the structures met the school’s needs perfectly.

The Impact

The completed outdoor shelters have had a transformative impact on John of Rolleston School. The woodland shelter blends into the environment, offering a functional yet aesthetically pleasing space for outdoor lessons. The shelter provides much-needed protection from the unpredictable weather, enabling students to explore nature and engage in outdoor learning throughout the year. By removing weather-related barriers, the project has significantly enhanced the school’s ability to incorporate outdoor learning into the curriculum. The structures have not only improved accessibility to nature but also contributed to students’ overall well-being by encouraging more time spent outdoors.

The Outcome

Roundpeg Outdoor Building have successfully implemented an innovative solution to enhance the outdoor education space at John of Rolleston School. Despite challenges related to funding and neighbouring properties, our adaptability and commitment to customer satisfaction ensured the project’s success. Today, the outdoor structures stand as a testament to how thoughtful design and collaboration can positively impact a school’s learning environment and students’ connection with nature.