Westwood Middle School
When it comes to playground design, older students are often overlooked. Westwood Middle School in Blaine, Minnesota, shows how a thoughtfully designed play space can keep middle school-aged kids and teens moving, challenging themselves, and spending more time outdoors.
Rather than relying on traditional playground equipment, this space was designed around climbing, physical challenge, and high-energy play. The project combines equipment from three leading manufacturers to create an experience that feels engaging and age-appropriate for older students.
Trekfit Summit Boulder Climbing Feature
The TrekFit Summit Boulder gives students a chance to climb, problem-solve, and build confidence through movement. The Berliner IKO Large adds another level of challenging net play, encouraging coordination, strength, and social interaction. And the Playworld Mighty Descent Slide brings a bold, exciting element that students will want to return to again and again.
Together, these pieces create more than a playground. They create a destination where students can take a break from the school day, move their bodies, build confidence, and connect with peers.
At Midwest Playscapes, we believe play spaces should serve the people who use them. For schools, that means designing environments that meet the needs and interests of students at every age, including the often-hard-to-engage middle school group. Westwood Middle School is a great example of what is possible when play is designed with older kids in mind.
Visit Westwood Middle School:
711 91st Ave NE, Blaine, MN 55434
