Rudolf Steiner School

Rudolf Steiner School in Norrköping envisioned a new playground that would motivate students of all ages to be more physically active. However, limited funding stood in the way of turning that vision into reality. To bridge the gap, the school applied for support through the Let’s Pep grant—an initiative from KOMPAN Sweden created to encourage projects that promote increased physical activity.

The school was awarded €16,500 (just under $20,000), allowing the project to exceed its original scope. With the funding, the playground gained an outdoor fitness area, an obstacle course, swings, and an upgraded basketball court. Now, the space is full of activity throughout the day—from break times to PE and even after‑school play. Teachers also report a noticeable decrease in conflicts and improved focus during class, showing just how much a well‑designed play environment can contribute to a positive school culture.

When selecting the new play equipment, it was important for the school to offer all students—from preschool through 9th grade—more opportunities for physical activity throughout the day. They also wanted the new play areas to blend naturally into the surrounding school grounds. To achieve both goals, the school chose a 100‑foot obstacle course for younger children and an outdoor fitness area for older students—all built from durable robinia wood. Swings were added for mixed ages, and the basketball court was upgraded with new hoops installed at the regulation height of 10 feet.

Developmentally, the obstacle course supports balance, muscle strength, and coordination—whether students complete the full trail or focus on individual elements. When multiple students use the trail at the same time, they naturally practice teamwork, turn‑taking, and empathy.

For older students, the outdoor fitness structure includes ten different stations, allowing many students to train simultaneously, while additional standalone fitness elements offer even more ways to stay active. The training concept centers on calisthenics, giving students the freedom to use each station for strength training, playful movement, or social interaction. It’s an ideal, age‑appropriate introduction to physical training that encourages healthy habits from an early age.

Ready to transform your schoolyard? Explore popular play equipment for schools. Plus, get inspiration and practical planning tips for planning your next playground project.