Saltsjöbadens Samskola

Established in 1895, Saltsjöbadens Samskola, affectionately known as “Samskolan,” has witnessed generations of students pass through its halls. This very building, constructed in 1915 by architects Ture Stenberg and Victor Holmgren, stands as a testament to the school’s enduring presence in Saltsjöbaden. Initially a private institution located near Ringparken, Samskolan embraced a progressive co-educational approach, a rarity for preparatory schools of that era. This forward-thinking philosophy laid the groundwork for a vibrant learning environment. Saltsjöbadens Samskola earned the right to grant the realexamen, a significant milestone in its early years. This academic pathway expanded, solidifying the school’s commitment to providing comprehensive education. A pivotal moment arrived in 1919 when Saltsjöbadens Samskola obtained the royal decree to award the studentexamen, marking its formal recognition as an institution of higher learning. The first examination took place on May 12th of that year. Originally focused on the science-oriented “reallinjen” curriculum, the school broadened its offerings to include a humanities track (“latinlinjen”) in 1920. This expansion was made possible by the generous support of the “Association for the Advancement of Saltsjöbadens Samskola.” The original school building near Ringparken, despite expansions, eventually proved inadequate for the growing student body. A new building was commissioned in Tattby Forest. This is the “Old Building” you see before you today. The school continued to evolve with the addition of a new wing, the “New Building,” in 1965 to accommodate the burgeoning gymnasium (upper secondary school). Further expansions followed in 1982-83 with the “Annex,” nestled between the old and new buildings, providing dedicated spaces for home economics, technology, and economics classes. More recently, a state-of-the-art extension in 2000-2001 brought modern science labs, a revamped cafeteria, and contemporary classrooms. From its humble beginnings with just nine students in 1895, Saltsjöbadens Samskola’s student population has grown significantly. By 1915, it had reached 205 students, exceeding 400 by 1921, and peaking at 521 in 1956. Today, Saltsjöbadens Samskola serves as a comprehensive F-9 school, educating approximately 920 students. The school has a rich history, from its origins in a different building to the modern structure you see now. The artwork within the school, including the auditorium’s mural by Sven X:et Eriksson and Barbro Nilsson and classroom decorations by Thomas Nordström, add to its unique character.