Child care teacher, vocational education

What does a childcare teacher in vocational education do? – Tasks and work environment

A childcare teacher in vocational education trains students within the child and leisure program at high school or within adult education. The main task is to teach subjects related to children's development, pedagogy, care, health, and work environment. The instruction is often combined with practical components and supervision during internships, where students apply their theoretical knowledge in real situations. The work environment is characterized by close collaboration with colleagues, student groups, and sometimes external actors such as preschools and leisure activities. The role requires good pedagogical skills, commitment to youth development, and the ability to adapt teaching to various needs and conditions.

Salary development over time

The salary for childcare teachers in vocational education has shown a stable and positive development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, then increased to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 41 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.4% during the period. The salary increase can partly be explained by the high demand for vocational teachers, especially in the child and leisure sector, and the need for employers to offer competitive wages to attract and retain qualified staff. The nationwide shortage of qualified vocational teachers has also contributed to upward pressure on salaries, while education level and experience continue to play a significant role in salary setting.

Childcare teacher in vocational education salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, high school education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK/hour (average, hourly employed)
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of men's salary (women: 41 300 SEK, men: 41 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but generally somewhat higher wages in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a childcare teacher in vocational education, a combination of pedagogical training and work experience in childcare or pedagogy is required. The most common pathway is to first train as a preschool teacher, leisure pedagogue, or child carer, and then supplement with a vocational teacher degree. The education is academic and includes both subject studies and pedagogy, as well as practical training in schools or other child-related activities.

• Vocational teacher degree: 1.5 years (additional qualification after work experience)
• Basic education: Preschool teacher degree, leisure pedagogue, or equivalent education (3–4 years)
• Practical training: Included as a mandatory part of teacher training
• Prerequisites: Work experience in childcare/pedagogy
• Further education: Opportunities for courses in special pedagogy, leadership, and didactics

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for childcare teachers in vocational education include occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and favorable working conditions such as holiday employment or scheduled working hours. Many employers also offer flexible working hours, subsidized lunch, and sometimes extra vacation days or bridging days. Opportunities for further education and supervision are also common.

Challenges and competition

The profession as a childcare teacher in vocational education is characterized by high demand but also some challenges. The recruitment situation is often described as paradoxical, with difficulties in finding qualified teachers and at the same time a certain proportion of part-time workers or those leaving the profession. Workload can be high, especially during periods with many internship students or extensive curriculum work. Changing requirements from authorities and the working life, as well as the need to constantly update pedagogical methods, demand flexibility and ongoing training. However, those who enjoy working closely with students and want to shape the future of childcare can find a rewarding and developing career in the profession.

Tips for those who want to become a childcare teacher in vocational education

To succeed as a childcare teacher in vocational education, it is good to have a genuine interest in children's development and learning, as well as strong pedagogical skills. Patience and attentiveness facilitate both in the classroom and during supervision of students during internships. Building good relationships with students and colleagues and being able to adapt teaching to individual needs is important. Engagement and clear communication help motivate and inspire students, while organizational skills facilitate planning and coordination of courses and internships. A continuous desire to learn and develop one's teaching is also crucial for thriving and progressing in the profession.

Key facts about childcare teachers in vocational education

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree (additional 1.5 years after work experience)
• Work environment: School-based, often with elements of internship supervision
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Gender distribution: Even, with small salary differences between women and men
• Number of job openings: 434 within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a childcare teacher in vocational education, there are opportunities to take on expanded responsibilities such as program coordinator, mentor, or become a senior teacher. Some choose to further specialize in special pedagogy, leadership, or supervision of student teachers. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that job opportunities within the profession are large and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The industry is also characterized by some recruitment difficulties, which provides good opportunities for recent graduates and experienced teachers to find work. With the right education and engagement, there is also potential to advance to leadership positions within schools or educational administration.

Frequently asked questions about childcare teachers in vocational education

• What does a childcare teacher in vocational education earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month.
• How has the salary development looked for childcare teachers?
  - Salaries have increased from 39,100 SEK (2022) to 41 600 SEK (2024).
• What education is required to become a childcare teacher in vocational education?
  - A vocational teacher degree and work experience in childcare or pedagogy are required.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 99% of men's salaries within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for childcare teachers?
  - Opportunities for employment are large, and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Occupational pension, wellness allowance, and professional development are common benefits.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK and the lowest is 34,400 SEK per month.