Leigh Academy Rainham

Established in 2021, Leigh Academy Rainham, part of the renowned Leigh Academies Trust, is a unique, purpose-built school, known for its inclusive environment and high aspirations for every student. With over 1,200 students in Rainham, Kent, the school is dedicated to fostering academic success and personal growth, not least through its impressive range of facilities and carefully designed environment.

As part of its continued growth, the academy sought to address the increasing demand for an outdoor social and dining space that could be used year-round.

Streetspace Structures was chosen to provide a solution that would offer much-needed extra capacity and ensure comfort and protection from the elements. The result was a state-of-the-art ORION Barrel Vault Fabric Canopy, at an impressive 34m x 6.4 m2 which now provides additional dining capacity for over 200 students.

The canopy is fully glazed, ensuring students remain comfortable even in adverse weather. It features integrated infrared heaters and lighting to extend its use throughout the year while the CITY3 9700 treated benches provide comfortable seating. The sleek, minimalist design allows the canopy to blend seamlessly with the existing campus buildings, offering a stylish and practical solution to the academy’s growing needs. The free-standing steel frame is finished with high-quality powder coating and the architectural membrane roof lets light flood in, truly enhancing the school’s wraparound provision for all pupils, all day.

In addition to being used for dining and socialising, the canopy is a flexible space that can host various outdoor learning and school events. It provides the academy with increased access to all its carefully designed areas during break and lunch times.

This versatile expansion will continue to benefit Leigh Academy Rainham, helping the school accommodate its growing student body in a modern, inclusive environment. It aligns perfectly with the academy’s mission to provide a supportive, high-quality learning environment, where every child has the opportunity to thrive.