The right security perimeter fencing or boundary wall for a childcare centre must meet a number of requirements. Choosing the right solution could not only save you money and time; it can also increase the assessment rating and popularity of the childcare centre.
When the physical learning environment is stimulating and creates a ‘wow-factor’, it can:
- Impresses families
- Engages children
- Leads to a stronger centre assessment result
1. Secure and safe
Firstly, the wall or fence must be secure and made from safe, sturdy materials, to comply with Area 2 and 3 of the National Quality Standard. For example, chain-link fencing is climbable and far too visible from the public, while timber fencing weakens rapidly and causes dangerous splintering over time.
A strong boundary offers families a safe and private atmosphere when walking into the space, which is an important factor during enrolment periods.
2. Acoustically rated
Whether it’s to keep traffic noise out or to keep playground noise in, sound attenuation is a key factor to keeping your centre a safe space and to keeping neighbouring residents happy. After all, the last thing you need, is to receive a notice from Council permitting you to now erect an acoustic wall due to noise complaints. Especially after already spending time and money on a new boundary solution!
3. Cost effective
Brick walls are secure and offer a long design life. However, they come with large costs that many childcare centres may not have the budget for — especially when including a rendered finish. Budgets must be closely adhered to, especially in the first few years of operation, but this doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or aesthetics.
4. Durable
The playground of a childcare centre is a space to engage in active play and explore their surroundings, and thus may need to withstand more wear and tear than other structures. Basically, the more your centre has to spend on maintenance, the less it will have to run effectively and the less profit it will provide.
5. Fast build schedule
Specifically affecting operational centres, renovation projects mean that the children may have restricted or no access to the playground. This can consequently interfere with staff programming schedules, the safe operation of the centre and the wellbeing of the children (related to Outcome 3 of the Early Years Learning Framework) .
Therefore, a speedy installation ensures that the project limits inconvenience and hassle for everyone involved; including parents that may not appreciate that the facility is not fully functional.
6. Enhance their learning environment
Children are stimulated by their senses. Additionally, a fun, lively learning space has been directly related to better learning and positive emotional behaviours. When referring back to the National Quality Standard, Area 3 details the requirements for the physical environments of childcare centres. In conclusion, if your physical environment is positive and engaging for your children, families and assessors will notice, and the business will flow in.
