Image that illustrates Preschool assistant

Preschool assistant

27 500 kr

Childcare workers

23 900 - 28 900 kr / month

Women earn 105% of what men do.

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Salary progression Preschool assistant

Average salary 27 500 kr
Males 26 300 kr
Females 27 600 kr

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

A preschool assistant works to support preschool teachers and childcare workers in daily activities at the preschool. Tasks often include assisting during meals, play, and educational activities, as well as creating a safe and stimulating environment for children. Preschool assistants are also responsible for light cleaning, preparing materials, and ensuring children receive the support they need during the day. The work environment is social and characterized by close collaboration with colleagues and children, where flexibility and engagement are important qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary for a preschool assistant has increased gradually in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,800 SEK per month, rising the following year to 26 600. The latest data from 2024 shows a further increase to 27 500, representing a total salary increase of approximately 10% over three years. This rise is mainly due to increased demands on preschool staff and general salary adjustments within the public sector. The trend indicates that although the profession does not have the highest salaries in the pedagogical field, steady improvements are making the profession somewhat more attractive over time.

Preschool assistant salary – comprehensive overview

  • Average salary: 27 500 SEK/month
  • Lowest salary: 23,900 SEK/month (male, private sector, high school education, 3 years)
  • Highest salary: 28,900 SEK/month (female, government sector, high school education, up to 2 years)
  • Hourly wage (average): 165 SEK
  • Women earn: 105% of what men do (27 600 SEK vs. 26 300 SEK)
  • Regional differences: Data is lacking, but variations may occur between larger and smaller municipalities.

Education and qualifications

The path to working as a preschool assistant is often quite flexible and rarely requires longer formal education. Many employers view high school education in the Child and Recreation program positively, but internal training is also common. Practical experience with children is advantageous, and personal suitability carries significant weight in hiring. To enhance their skills, various short courses or certifications can be beneficial.

  • High school education: Child and Recreation program (3 years)
  • Internship: Often meritorious, but not always required
  • Short courses: For example in child safety or pedagogy
  • Prerequisites: No formal education is always required, but experience in childcare is a plus
  • Tips: Engagement and interest in children's development are appreciated by employers

Many preschool assistants describe that the job provides a unique insight into children's development and learning. It is not uncommon for the role to be a stepping stone to further education in pedagogy or childcare, as it offers practical experience and opportunities to build valuable relationships in the preschool world.

– statsskuld.se

Common benefits and compensations

Preschool assistants are often covered by collective agreements that entitle them to holiday pay, occupational pension, and insurance. Many workplaces also offer wellness contributions, subsidized lunches, and opportunities for professional development. Working hours are generally during the day and follow the preschool's opening hours, which can facilitate a stable work routine.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a preschool assistant is considered high, as the demand nationwide remains unchanged and there is a surplus of trained personnel within the profession. Over the next five years, the job market is expected to remain stable without major changes in recruitment. This means it can be difficult to secure permanent employment in some regions, especially where population growth is low. However, there are still available positions – currently around 237 within the profession – indicating that opportunities exist for those who are flexible and proactive in their job search.

Tips for those wishing to become a preschool assistant

To succeed as a preschool assistant, it is good to have a genuine interest in children's development and strong collaboration skills with colleagues and parents. Being attentive and flexible makes it easier when tasks quickly shift between practical chores and educational moments. A positive attitude and patience help in meeting children's diverse needs, while responsibility and structure make it easier to contribute to a safe environment. Showing initiative and openness to further education can also create more opportunities for development within the profession.

Key facts about preschool assistants

  • Education level: High school education, most commonly Child and Recreation program
  • Typical work arrangement: Full-time, daytime within preschool
  • Demand: Limited opportunities, surplus of workforce nationally
  • Number of available jobs: Approximately 237 positions within the profession
  • Special skills: Experience in childcare and good teamwork skills

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as a preschool assistant, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified roles, such as childcare worker or preschool teacher, often after additional training. Some choose to specialize in areas like language support or working with children with special needs. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates that the job market remains stable but competitive, with limited opportunities for new applicants. Despite this, experience and further education can open doors to more secure employment and new career paths within the preschool sector.

Frequently asked questions about preschool assistants

  • What does a preschool assistant earn?
    - The average salary is 27 500 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience and employer.
  • What education is required to become a preschool assistant?
    - Usually, a high school education, preferably in the Child and Recreation program, along with childcare experience.
  • Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
    - Yes, women earn on average 105% of what men do within the profession.
  • What is the job market like for preschool assistants?
    - There is a surplus of trained staff and limited opportunities for new jobs nationally.
  • What are the working hours for a preschool assistant?
    - Working hours are usually during the day and follow the preschool's opening hours.
  • Can you further education within the profession?
    - Yes, there are opportunities to further education, for example as a childcare worker or preschool teacher.
  • What is the average hourly wage?
    - The average hourly wage is 165 SEK.

Who has the highest salary?
The highest salary for a Preschool assistant is 28900 kr. This salary belongs to a woman working in the Government sector with a upper secondary education, maximum 2 years. The highest salary for a man in this profession is 28500 kr.
Who has the lowest salary?
The lowest salary for a Preschool assistant is 23900 kr. This salary belongs to a man working in the Privately employed officials. The lowest salary for a woman in this profession is 24900 kr.
Salary distributed by age and sector
Age Women's salary as a percentage of men's Base salary Monthly salary
18-24 101% 23600 kr 23700 kr
25-34 99% 26400 kr 26500 kr
35-44 100% 27200 kr 27300 kr
45-54 97% 28700 kr 28800 kr
55-64 99% 29900 kr 30000 kr
65-68 29800 kr 29900 kr
Snitt 105% 27400 kr 27500 kr
Salary per sector
Salary based on education
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About the data

All information displayed on this page is based on data from the Swedish Central Bureau of Statistics (SCB), the Swedish Tax Agency and the Swedish employment agency. Learn more about our data and data sources here.

All figures are gross salaries, meaning salaries before tax. The average salary, or mean salary, is calculated by adding up the total salary for all individuals within the profession and dividing it by the number of individuals. For specific job categories, we have also considered various criteria such as experience and education.

Profession Preschool assistant has the SSYK code 5311, which we use to match against the SCB database to obtain the latest salary statistics.

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