Templeton Primary School COLA
Project Details
Location: Wantirna, VIC
Completion Date: July 2025
Size: 34m x 18m (650 m2)
Fabric: PVC - Mehler FR700N
Client: Templeton Primary School
Photography: © MakMax Australia & Sky Skills
Located in Melbourne’s leafy eastern suburbs, Templeton Primary School has embraced outdoor learning and sport through recent campus upgrades, including the installation of a MakMax TensoCola canopy over its assembly and activity area. The new structure provides a versatile, weather-protected space that supports both school assemblies and outdoor education.
The Brief
The primary objective was to create a covered outdoor learning area (COLA) that provided reliable shade and weather protection while fitting seamlessly into the school grounds. A key design consideration was the placement of columns, particularly ensuring clear sightlines from the flagpoles and stage area during assemblies. MakMax’s design and engineering team customised the standard TensoCola model to minimise columns while maintaining full structural integrity.
The Concept
Working closely with the school, we engineered a roof structure that balanced the need for open views with the technical requirements of load distribution and structural stability. The refined column layout not only preserved visibility for students and staff during events but also created a more open and flexible space for everyday use.
The Materials
The canopy was fabricated using Mehler FR700N architectural-grade PVC, a durable and long-lasting material that delivers excellent weather resistance and light transmission. The steel frame features a hot-dip galvanised finish, ensuring long-term corrosion protection and the resilience needed for a busy school environment.
The Result
Installation was scheduled during the school holiday period to minimise disruption. On their return, students were delighted to discover their new outdoor area, while Principal Rod McKinlay expressed his enthusiasm for the upgrade. The Templeton Primary School COLA has quickly become a valued part of school life, offering a comfortable, multi-purpose space that will support learning and community activities for years to come.
