Closed since June 2024 Internationella Engelska Skolan Skärholmen holds a unique place in Stockholm’s educational landscape. It’s a story of adaptation and change. The school once thrived in Storsätragränd in Sätra. However due to safety concerns and a lack of building permits the school closed for years four to eight. Year nine students were relocated. They now attend Internationella Engelska Gymnasiet Södermalm near Skanstull. This temporary move became permanent. In June 2025 IES Skärholmen will close completely.
The relocation presented challenges. Yet the school ensured a smooth transition for its students. Year nine students received support. They were offered bus passes for easy travel to their new location. Many younger students were offered places at other IES schools. The school’s staff also received help finding new positions within IES. Approximately 100 people including 88 students and 12 staff members are now based in Södermalm.
The closure wasn’t simply a logistical exercise. It was an emotional one. Students experienced disappointment and sadness. The school worked hard to foster understanding and to maintain focus on their studies. This period highlighted the strength of the school community. It showed the dedication of both students and staff.
The decision to close IES Skärholmen was not arbitrary. It was prompted by a power line issue behind the building. Stockholm City Council deemed the school unsafe. This fact highlights the interplay between urban development and educational infrastructure. The school’s closure also reflected the changing global security climate.
The move to Södermalm gave the year nine students an unexpected advantage. They were studying alongside older students at the gymnasium. This early exposure to a high school environment helped with their transition. It also provided valuable insight into their future options. Many found this aspect unexpectedly beneficial. Students even created a WhatsApp group to help each other navigate the city.
IES Skärholmen may be closing its doors. The impact of this school will linger. The lessons learned the friendships forged and the resilience demonstrated remain. It is a testament to the adaptability of both students and staff in the face of unexpected circumstances. The school left behind more than just a building it left behind a legacy. A legacy of community and the pursuit of education. Remember IES Skärholmen not for its closure but for its enduring spirit.