Ever noticed the red brick facade as you pass by Gärdeskolan? This isn’t just any school. It’s a piece of Stockholm’s history. Let’s uncover the story behind this impressive building on Banérgatan 56.
Gärdeskolan is a municipal primary school. It serves students from F-9 grades. That means it covers education from preschool class all the way through ninth grade. Around 1,000 students attend Gärdeskolan. It also has about 150 dedicated employees.
Back in the 1940s, Gärdet was a growing residential area. The existing Östermalms folkskola couldn’t accommodate all the new children. The city needed a new school. Gärdeskolan was the answer.
Construction began in 1944. Paul Hedqvist was the architect behind the design. In August 1945, Gärdeskolan opened its doors. Originally named Gärdets folkskola, its name changed in the 1960s. The buildings feature a distinctive red brick facade. White window frames add a touch of contrast.
The city paid Djurgårdskommissionen 1.8 million kronor for the land. That was 62.50 kronor per square meter. Building costs totaled 3.6 million kronor. The government contributed over 2.5 million kronor in state grants.
A Dagens Nyheter article described the new school as a “pampigt, fullt tidsenligt skolpalats.” That translates to a stately, fully contemporary school palace. Gärdeskolan boasted 49 classrooms. It also had special purpose rooms and a large auditorium. The school grounds covered 30,000 square meters.
Originally, there were plans for a swimming pool. The plans included a 17-meter long pool and four gymnasiums. But these were scrapped. However, the school did have a special dental clinic. It also housed a school doctor and nurse.
Östermalm’s city library once had its premises in Gärdeskolan’s current dining hall. The school initially had space for 1,300 students.
In 2017, a new artificial turf field was inaugurated. The school and local sports clubs use it.
Today, Gärdeskolan continues to evolve. It strives to improve the learning environment. The school culture emphasizes high expectations. Teaching combines traditional and digital methods. Gärdeskolan focuses on creating a safe and thriving environment. Students feel secure and happy here.
Gärdeskolan also includes Olaus Petri school for grades F-3. It also has programs for adapted primary school students. Gärdeskolan truly is a school for everyone.
So, next time you see Gärdeskolan, remember its history. It stands as a testament to Stockholm’s commitment to education. It’s a vibrant place of learning.