Assistant professor, high school

What does a deputy teacher in upper secondary school do? – Tasks and working environment

A deputy teacher in upper secondary school is responsible for teaching within their subject area, planning and conducting lessons, and assessing students' performance. The role also includes mentoring, guidance, and development of course materials. The working environment often involves collaboration with colleagues, participation in interdisciplinary projects, and contact with guardians. Most work takes place in classroom settings but can also include digital teaching and administrative tasks related to education.

Salary development over time

The salary for a deputy teacher in upper secondary school has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK, which increased to 41 400 SEK in 2023 and reached 42 700 SEK in 2024. The total increase over the period is approximately 6.5 %, reflecting continued demand for qualified upper secondary teachers and general salary development within the education sector. Salary increases can also be explained by improved collective agreements and higher requirements for formal education and skills. Despite a relatively uniform salary progression between genders, small differences in the highest and lowest salaries are noted depending on education level and sector.

Deputy teacher, upper secondary school salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 257 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn the same as men in this profession (women 42 700 SEK, men 42 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data is lacking or marginal for this profession

Education and qualifications

To work as a deputy teacher in upper secondary school, a university degree with a focus on teaching is generally required, often at an advanced level. Many also have subject studies within their specialty and sometimes doctoral studies. Internships and experience in pedagogical work provide additional competitive advantages during recruitment.

• Teacher degree: Higher education (3–5 years) with subject specialization
• Qualification courses: For example, pedagogy and didactics
• Internship: Practical training (VFU) is part of the teacher education program
• Doctoral degree: Opens opportunities for higher salary, especially in the public sector
• Further education: Courses and seminars to stay updated within the subject

Common benefits and compensations

Deputy teachers in upper secondary school are often covered by collective agreements that provide rights to vacation, occupational pension, and insurance. Other common benefits include wellness contributions, professional development, flexitime, and parental leave with good conditions. In some cases, additional salary supplements are offered for special tasks or responsibilities.

Challenges and competition

The competition for positions as a deputy teacher in upper secondary school is considered balanced, with moderate opportunities for employment according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. Challenges in the profession often involve high workload, demands for flexibility, and the need to continuously adapt teaching to new curricula and student needs. Changes in student numbers and school finances can affect the number of positions, and digitalization increases demands on technical skills. Despite this, there is a stable demand for qualified deputy teachers, especially within certain subject areas.

Tips for those who want to become a deputy teacher in upper secondary school

To succeed as a deputy teacher, it’s good to have strong pedagogical skills and a genuine interest in the subject area. Developing good communication skills makes it easier to engage and motivate students, while structured planning helps manage workload and create clear lesson plans. Flexibility is an important trait, as the school's needs and teaching methods are constantly changing. Curiosity and willingness to participate in further training are also valuable to stay updated in your subject. Lastly, a collaborative attitude provides good opportunities to contribute to school development and create a positive working environment.

Key facts about Deputy Teacher, upper secondary school

• Education level: Teacher degree at university level, often with doctoral studies for the highest salary level
• Working environment: School environment with a focus on collaboration and pedagogical development
• Work form: Permanent employment is most common, but hourly employment also occurs
• Demand: Moderate opportunities for work, 434 available jobs in the profession
• Gender equality: No salary differences between women and men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a deputy teacher in upper secondary school, career paths can lead to senior teacher, team leader, or subject coordinator. Some choose to further qualify as a lecturer or move into school leadership roles such as assistant principal or principal. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, opportunities for employment are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over five years. Digitalization and changing educational requirements may create new roles, especially within school development and pedagogical innovation. The number of available jobs across the profession is currently 434, indicating a continued stable job market.

Frequently asked questions about Deputy Teacher, upper secondary school

• What does a deputy teacher earn in upper secondary school?
  - The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 257 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - No, women and men earn the same within this profession.
• What education is required to become a deputy teacher in upper secondary school?
  - A teaching degree with a subject specialization is required, often at an advanced level.
• What is the job market like for deputy teachers in upper secondary school?
  - Opportunities are considered moderate and stable over the next five years.
• What influences the salary of a deputy teacher in upper secondary school?
  - Education level, sector (public, municipal, private), and experience affect the salary level.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Senior teacher, subject coordinator, or leadership roles within school management are common paths.
• How many job openings are there for deputy teachers in upper secondary school?
  - There are 434 available positions according to current statistics.