Nursery assistant

What does a preschool assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A preschool assistant primarily works in preschools, after-school centers, and other childcare environments supporting educators and contributing to children's safety and development. The tasks are varied and include helping during meals, play, and educational activities, as well as assisting children with special needs. Practical duties such as organizing materials, cleaning, and ensuring a safe and pleasant environment are also common. The work is carried out in close collaboration with children, colleagues, and sometimes parents, requiring flexibility and good teamwork skills. The work environment is usually lively and diverse, where initiative and patience are important qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary development for preschool assistants has been positive in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 36 100 SEK per month, representing a total increase of approximately 8.7% over three years. This salary trend reflects increased demand for qualified staff in childcare and a general push for higher wages in the welfare sector. The trend indicates that the profession is increasingly valued, partly due to the growing need for skilled labor and demands for improved work environments and quality. Differences between employers and regions may occur, but the overall development is steadily upward.

Preschool assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK/month (female, public sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, with research education)
• Hourly wage: 217 SEK
• Women: 35 900 SEK/month
• Men: 36 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 98% of what men do
• Regional differences: May occur, but detailed statistics are lacking

Education and qualifications

To work as a preschool assistant, usually no formal university education is required, but many employers prefer applicants with a high school diploma focusing on children and recreation. Practical experience working with children is highly valued and can sometimes weigh more than formal credentials. Additional training, courses, or certifications in childcare can also improve employment opportunities.

• High school education: Child and Recreation Program, 3 years
• Practical experience: Experience from preschools or after-school centers is advantageous
• Supplementary courses: For example, child safety, first aid
• Prerequisites: Often Swedish language skills and a criminal background check
• Tips: Engagement in community or volunteer work with children is viewed positively

Common benefits and compensations

Preschool assistants are often covered by collective agreements, entitling them to occupational pension, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Working hours can be flexible, and some employers also offer opportunities for skills development or further training. Other common benefits include insurance and subsidized lunches.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a preschool assistant is generally balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of labor nationwide. Challenges in the profession can include a high pace, many children per adult, and sometimes limited resources, requiring resilience and adaptability. The work environment can be physically demanding, and social interactions with children and adults require sensitivity and patience. In some regions, job availability may vary slightly, but overall, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Being prepared to handle both joys and challenges in daily work is important.

Tips for those wanting to become a preschool assistant

To succeed as a preschool assistant, it is good to be attentive, as the work often requires quickly assessing children's needs and adapting to different situations. Patience and pedagogical skills facilitate conflict management and support for children with special needs. Initiative is valuable, especially in planning activities and finding creative solutions in daily routines. Engagement and a sense of responsibility are highly appreciated by employers, as the work involves being a role model for children. Flexibility is also an advantage, as tasks can vary greatly from day to day. Finally, good teamwork skills are essential, since the role involves close collaboration with colleagues and contact with parents.

Key facts about preschool assistants

• Educational level: High school diploma (recommended: Child and Recreation Program)
• Work environment: Preschools, after-school centers, childcare
• Employment type: Full-time or part-time employment, sometimes hourly
• Demand: 237 job openings nationally in the current profession
• Future prospects: Moderate opportunities, demand expected to remain unchanged according to the Employment Service

Career paths and future outlook

After several years of experience as a preschool assistant, there are opportunities to further qualify as a preschool teacher, recreation pedagog, or social pedagogue. Some choose to specialize in working with children with special needs or take on more responsibility as team leaders. According to the Employment Service, the future outlook for the profession is moderate, with demand expected to stay stable over five years. The recruitment situation is balanced, indicating good chances of employment for those with relevant education and experience. However, regional differences and local needs in childcare and education influence the job market.

Common questions about preschool assistants

• What is the average salary for a preschool assistant?
  - A preschool assistant has an average salary of 36 100 SEK per month.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What are the requirements to work as a preschool assistant?
  - Usually, a high school diploma with a focus on children and recreation, along with experience working with children.
• What are the job prospects for preschool assistants?
  - According to the Employment Service, job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the tasks of a preschool assistant?
  - Supporting educators, helping children in daily routines, and contributing to a safe environment at preschools or after-school centers.
• How does salary distribution look?
  - The lowest salary is 31,800 SEK and the highest is 41,500 SEK per month.
• Do preschool assistants usually work full-time or part-time?
  - Most work full-time, but part-time and hourly positions are also common.