Amidst high temperatures, children's comfort becomes an essential concern. Inaugurated in September 2026, the new green courtyard at La Vernette elementary school offers a cooler and more pleasant environment. This transformation marks a first step in evolving schoolyards in Sanary.
The renovated courtyard now features spaces adapted for various uses, including a climbing structure, sports areas, relaxation zones, and playhouses. Vegetation and shaded areas also provide increased coolness. The bike path has been improved with light, draining surfaces and wood chip-covered play areas.
“"It feels like a park!"
The City designed this development in consultation with educational teams, professionals, parent representatives, and children. The work was carried out during the school holidays of 2026. Teachers are observing calmer behavior and a less noisy courtyard.
“"The children have embraced the spaces and can choose their activity. They are free while respecting the rules we established together."
The green courtyard also offers new educational possibilities with an amphitheater, an outdoor classroom, and a vegetable garden. Dominique Ivanez, deputy delegate for Childhood, highlights: 'It's a wonderful courtyard that helps restore a more serene educational and school climate.'
Key figures for the renovation at La Vernette include 3,000 m² of renovated courtyard, 2,031 m² of de-impermeabilized surfaces, 14 trees planted, with an investment of €614,000 HT, 70% of which is funded by the State.
Children also participated in creating a mural with artist Floya Jam. The renovation is part of a broader initiative to improve the thermal comfort of school buildings, including solar protection on exterior joinery, air conditioners, and LED lighting. Claudia Vitel, delegate councilor for Energy and Ecological Transition, states that 'the environment serves education and children's well-being.'
At Cousteau school, thermal comfort has been enhanced through exterior insulation and the installation of air conditioners. The city will study the feasibility of a green development in the elementary courtyard.
The greening also contributes to better rainwater management thanks to de-impermeabilized surfaces. Additionally, 1,900 m² of roofing at La Vernette elementary school have been covered with reflective white paint, reducing indoor temperatures by up to 5 °C.
