What does a preschool teacher do? – Tasks and work environment
A preschool teacher works with children aged one to six years and is responsible for stimulating their learning and development through play, educational activities, and social interaction. The profession involves planning, implementing, and evaluating activities based on the preschool curriculum. Preschool teachers often collaborate with colleagues, child carers, and guardians to create a safe and developmental environment. The work environment is dynamic, involving both physical activity and creative problem-solving, requiring flexibility, patience, and good communication skills.
Salary development over time
The salary for preschool teachers has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,600 SEK per month, rising to 34 600 SEK in 2023 and reaching 36 300 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of about 8% over two years. The development reflects an increased demand for qualified preschool teachers and efforts to strengthen the profession's attractiveness, especially given recruitment challenges in the sector. Salary increases have been somewhat higher than the average for the labor market, partly due to political investments and a greater focus on the preschool's role in the education system. The trend shows that the profession's importance has been reinforced, although salary levels still vary depending on education, experience, and employer.
Preschool teacher salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 36 300 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 23,700 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 40,100 SEK/month (female, government sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 218 SEK/hour
- Women/men: Women earn 36 300 SEK, men 35 700 SEK (women 102% of men's salary)
- Regional differences: Salaries may vary depending on location and employer, but differences are generally moderate.
Education and qualifications
To work as a preschool teacher, a university degree in preschool pedagogy is required, providing fundamental and advanced knowledge about children's development, learning, and needs. The education includes both theoretical and practical components, with mandatory internships in preschool. After completing the education, certification is required to obtain permanent employment as a preschool teacher.
- Preschool teacher degree: University education, 3.5 years (210 hp)
- Certification: Required for permanent employment
- Internship (VFU): Mandatory part of the program
- Eligibility requirements: Basic university eligibility
- Further education: Opportunities for specialization or master's degrees
The preschool teaching profession offers unique opportunities to follow children's development over time and build strong relationships with both children and parents. Many experience that each day is different, contributing to an inspiring workday with plenty of room for creativity and initiative.
Common benefits and compensations
Preschool teachers often have access to benefits such as wellness allowances, professional development days, opportunities for skill enhancement, and subsidized lunches. In addition to base salary, some employers offer extra vacation days, pension supplements, and insurance. Working in municipal or government sectors often includes collective agreement benefits.
Competition and challenges
The job market for preschool teachers is characterized by high demand and significant recruitment difficulties. There is a constant need for qualified preschool teachers, making competition for positions often low for qualified applicants. At the same time, workload can be high, especially in larger cities and areas with many children per staff member. Challenges in the profession may also include managing large groups of children, varying working hours, and requirements for documentation and follow-up. Preschool teachers also need to be prepared to meet children with diverse needs and backgrounds, which demands pedagogical competence and social skills.
Tips for those aspiring to become preschool teachers
To succeed as a preschool teacher, it is beneficial to have a genuine interest in children's development and learning, along with patience and responsiveness. Flexibility helps when the workday changes quickly, and good teamwork skills are important for working both with colleagues and parents. It is wise to seek internships early to get a realistic view of the profession, and building networks during education is advantageous. The ability to communicate clearly and create a sense of security for children makes daily work easier, and being structured to handle documentation and planning is a plus. Continuing education and staying updated on new pedagogical methods also enhance opportunities for growth within the profession.
Key facts about Preschool Teachers
- Educational level: University education, 3.5 years + certification
- Work environment: Child-centered, often in teams, with varying pace
- Demand: Great opportunities for jobs nationwide
- Job vacancies: 434 advertised positions in Sweden
- Gender distribution: The profession is dominated by women, but men are in demand
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years as a preschool teacher, there are good opportunities to develop within the profession, such as team leader, preschool principal, special educator, or student supervisor. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, job opportunities remain large nationwide, and demand is expected to stay steady over the next five years. Despite recruitment challenges in many regions, there is a paradoxical situation where unemployment or part-time work exists simultaneously with a significant shortage of qualified preschool teachers. Those who choose to pursue further education or specialize, for example in language support or children with special needs, have excellent chances for development and new roles within preschools.
Frequently asked questions about Preschool Teachers
- What is the average salary for a preschool teacher?
- A preschool teacher has an average salary of 36 300 SEK per month.
- How has the salary development for preschool teachers been?
- Salaries have increased by about 8% over two years, and the trend remains positive.
- What education is required to become a preschool teacher?
- A university degree (3.5 years) and certification are required to work as a preschool teacher.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- Yes, women earn on average 102% of what men do in the profession.
- What is the job market like for preschool teachers?
- Opportunities for employment are plentiful, with 434 available jobs nationwide.
- What factors can influence a preschool teacher's salary?
- Level of education, experience, sector (public, municipal, private), and region are significant factors.
- What personal qualities are important for a preschool teacher?
- Patience, responsiveness, teamwork skills, and structure are central qualities.
