Childcare teacher, not vocational education

What does a preschool teacher within upper secondary school do? – Tasks and work environment

Preschool teachers within upper secondary schools are responsible for teaching students about topics related to child development, care, and pedagogy, often within the children’s and leisure program. Tasks include planning, delivering, and evaluating lessons, supervising students in practical activities, and collaborating with colleagues and external partners such as preschools and leisure activities. The work mainly takes place in a school setting, but practical visits and supervision at various workplaces are also common. The focus is on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, requiring flexibility and pedagogical expertise.

Salary development over time

The salary for preschool teachers within upper secondary school has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK per month, increasing to 41 400 SEK in 2023, and further to 42 700 SEK in 2024. This development reflects an overall increase of nearly 6.5% over three years, indicating moderate positive salary growth in line with increased demand for qualified teachers and a greater focus on educational quality. The trend can also be explained by general wage pressures within the teaching profession and improved working conditions in the public sector. Gender pay gaps have largely been eliminated, and the profession is characterized by relatively equal pay with few extreme deviations.

Preschool teacher within upper secondary school salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (woman, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (woman, government sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 257 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women and men earn the same (women: 42 700 SEK, men: 42 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data on regional differences is unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a preschool teacher within upper secondary school, a teaching degree focusing on children’s and leisure subjects is required, often combined with subject studies in pedagogy and child development. The education includes both theoretical studies and extended practical periods, providing a broad understanding of pedagogical methods and workplace requirements. Formal requirements are clear, but supplementary courses and experience from work in preschools or leisure centers are advantageous.

• Teacher certification with subject specialization: 4–5 years at college/university
• Additional pedagogical training (KPU): For those with relevant subject education
• Workplace-based training: Extended practical periods included
• Eligibility requirements: Passing grades in Swedish, English, and social studies
• Valuable experience: Work within preschools, leisure centers, or childcare

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for preschool teachers within upper secondary school include occupational pension, generous vacation policies, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development through training courses. Benefits may vary depending on employer and collective agreement, but often include subsidized lunch and support for work-related aids. Employment in the public sector generally offers security and stability.

Challenges and competition

The job market for preschool teachers within upper secondary school is balanced, with moderate opportunities for new positions according to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecasts. Competition for positions varies across regions, but there is generally no shortage of qualified teachers. The main challenges include staying updated on new pedagogical methods, adapting teaching to students’ diverse needs, and handling administrative tasks. The role also requires the ability to collaborate across professions and to engage with students from different backgrounds and circumstances.

Tips for aspiring preschool teachers within upper secondary school

To succeed as a preschool teacher within upper secondary school, it’s beneficial to have a genuine interest in children’s and adolescents’ development and strong pedagogical skills. Being attentive and communicative facilitates both classroom teaching and supervision of practical activities, while patience is helpful in various teaching situations and when students need extra support. Flexibility is valuable for adapting teaching to different needs and changing curricula, and good collaboration skills ease teamwork with colleagues and external partners. Finally, it’s important to be curious about new pedagogical methods and to continuously develop your own competence to meet the profession’s demands.

Key facts about preschool teachers within upper secondary school

• Education level: Teacher certification (4–5 years)
• Work environment: School-based, often combined with practical supervision
• Work format: Full-time, daytime, semester-based
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, balanced job market
• Special skills: Child development, pedagogy, supervision

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to take on expanded responsibilities, such as mentor, subject coordinator, or supervisor for student teachers. Some choose to further their education in special education or school leadership, which can lead to roles such as assistant principal or education coordinator. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service forecast, demand for upper secondary school teachers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, providing stable employment opportunities and continued balance in the job market. With 434 available jobs in the profession, there are good chances to find positions across different locations and school types.

Common questions about preschool teachers within upper secondary school

• What is the salary of a preschool teacher within upper secondary school?
  - The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - No, women and men have essentially the same salary within this profession.
• What education is required to become a preschool teacher within upper secondary school?
  - Teacher certification with a focus on children’s and leisure subjects, often 4–5 years at college/university.
• What is the job market outlook?
  - Opportunities for employment are moderate, and the job market is expected to be balanced in the coming years.
• What are the most common job duties?
  - Teaching, supervision, planning, and evaluation within children’s and leisure subjects at upper secondary level.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, for example as a mentor, subject coordinator, or through further education to become a special education teacher or school principal.
• What is the hourly wage for a preschool teacher within upper secondary school?
  - The average hourly wage is 257 SEK (based on 166 working hours per month).