What does a Barnkoloniledare do? – Tasks and Work Environment
A Barnkoloniledare works to lead and support groups of children during camp or holiday activities, often during the summer months. The tasks include planning, executing, and evaluating activities aimed at providing children with a safe, developmental, and meaningful stay. The Barnkoloniledare is responsible for the children's safety, social interactions, and daily routines, and collaborates closely with other staff and sometimes parents. The work environment is characterized by outdoor activities, high pace, and varying working hours, where flexibility and strong engagement are essential.
Salary development over time
Barnkoloniledare have experienced a steady increase in average monthly salary over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK, which increased to 30 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 31 900 SEK in 2024. This development corresponds to a total increase of approximately 7.4% over the period. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified leaders and general salary growth within the leisure leader profession. Education level and experience continue to influence salary levels, and employers in the public sector tend to offer slightly higher salaries than private employers. The trend indicates that the profession is valued higher than before, which may be linked to a greater focus on children's well-being and quality assurance in camp and holiday activities.
Barnkoloniledare salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 27,400 SEK/month (men), 28,000 SEK/month (women)
- Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (men), 35,700 SEK/month (women)
- Hourly wage: 192 SEK
- Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (women: 32 100 SEK, men: 31 500 SEK)
- Regional differences: Data not available
Education and qualifications
Most Barnkoloniledare have a high school education in children and leisure, but higher education in pedagogy or social work is also common. Experience from working with children, such as as a leisure leader or scout leader, is often advantageous. Many employers also require leadership training and basic first aid knowledge.
- High school education: Children and leisure program (3 years)
- Shorter post-secondary courses: Leadership, pedagogy, first aid
- Internships: Work experience from camps, leisure activities, or community work
- Prerequisites: Experience working with children and youth
- Tips for choosing: Engagement in volunteer organizations or community activities can be a good pathway in
Many Barnkoloniledare report that leadership skills develop quickly in the profession because they face new challenges daily and must make decisions in critical situations. The practical experience of working with children in groups provides valuable insights that are appreciated even in other industries.
Common benefits and compensations
Common benefits for Barnkoloniledare include free food and accommodation during camp or holiday periods, as well as compensation for unsociable hours. Many employers also offer further training in leadership and safety, as well as mentoring and support from experienced colleagues. Some workplaces provide access to wellness allowances and work clothing.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as Barnkoloniledare varies between regions and seasons, but overall, the job market is described as balanced. There is a continuous need for committed and trained leaders, but employment is often seasonal and linked to holiday activities. One of the biggest challenges is managing groups with different needs and backgrounds, and maintaining a safe and stimulating environment for all children. Working long hours and being responsible for children's safety requires endurance and good teamwork skills.
Tips for those who want to become Barnkoloniledare
To succeed as a Barnkoloniledare, it is good to be flexible, as unexpected situations often arise when working with children. Genuine engagement for children's development and well-being is crucial, as is the ability to listen and communicate clearly with both children and adults. Leadership skills facilitate organizing groups and planning activities, while patience helps in challenging situations. It is also important to be responsible, especially regarding children's safety and security. Showing empathy and building trust makes it easier to establish relationships and handle conflicts. Finally, initiative allows you to contribute new ideas and create memorable experiences for children.
Key facts about Barnkoloniledare
- Education level: High school education, often supplemented with shorter courses
- Work environment: Outdoors, camp and holiday environment with varying working hours
- Typical employment type: Seasonal employment part- or full-time
- Demand: Moderate, approximately 237 job openings nationwide within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After 3–5 years as a Barnkoloniledare, there are good opportunities to advance to coordinating roles, such as head leader or responsible for camp and holiday activities. Some choose to further their education to become leisure leaders, pedagogues, or social pedagogues, which can open doors to full-time employment within schools, leisure centers, or community organizations. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's prognosis, the demand for leisure leaders is moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified candidates. The practical experience gained as a Barnkoloniledare can also be valuable when applying for education or other social professions.
Frequently asked questions about Barnkoloniledare
- What does a Barnkoloniledare earn?
- The average salary is 31 900 SEK per month. The hourly wage is 192 SEK.
- Are there gender differences in salary?
- Yes, women earn on average 32 100 SEK and men 31 500 SEK. Women therefore earn 102% of men's salaries.
- What does the salary development look like?
- Salaries have increased from 29,600 SEK in 2022 to 31 900 SEK in 2024, which corresponds to an increase of about 7.4%.
- What education is required to become a Barnkoloniledare?
- Usually, a high school education in children and leisure, along with experience working with children, is required.
- What does the job market look like?
- Demand is moderate, and there is a balanced number of positions. About 237 job openings within the profession were recently noted.
- What are the lowest and highest salaries?
- The lowest salary is 27,400 SEK (men) and 28,000 SEK (women). The highest salary is 37,600 SEK (men) and 35,700 SEK (women).
