Rudolf Steiner school, Sweden

Rudolf Steiner School in Norrköping dreamed of a new school playground that would encourage pupils of all ages to be more physically active. However, the school lacked sufficient funding to turn the pupils’ and teachers’ visions into reality. As a result, the school applied for support from the Let’s Pep grant, launched by KOMPAN Sweden with the aim of supporting projects that promote increased physical activity.

The project was awarded 16,500 EUR in funding, enabling the school to exceed its original ambitions. The school playground got an obstacle course, outdoor fitness area, swings, and a basket ball court. Today, the playground is full of activity - during break times, PE lessons and after school hours. Teachers also report significantly fewer conflicts and improved focus during lessons.

It was important for the school to be able to offer all pupils more opportunities for physical activity in the playground - from preschool class through to Year 9. The school also wanted the solution to blend naturally into the surrounding environment on the school grounds. As a result, an outdoor fitness area was created for older pupils, along with swings and a 30‑metre-long trail for younger children - all equipment made from durable robinia wood. In addition, the basketball court was upgraded with new hoops, installed at a height of 305 cm in line with official regulations.

The trail is ideal for developing balance, muscle strength and coordination. Pupils can choose to complete the entire course in different ways or focus on climbing and playing on individual obstacles. When several pupils use the obstacle course at the same time, they also develop empathy and teamwork skills. The outdoor fitness structure features ten different stations, allowing many pupils to train simultaneously. Additional standalone fitness equipment has also been added, offering even more opportunities for activity.

The training concept focuses on calisthenics, meaning a wide range of exercises can be performed at each station. This gives pupils the flexibility to use the equipment for traditional strength training, playful exercise and social interaction - an ideal way to motivate and introduce young people of this age group to physical training. In our guide, play equipment for schools, you can find popular playground equipment for schools, further inspiration, and practical tips on what to consider when designing your school playground.