Pre-school teacher

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

A preschool teacher works to support and educate children in preschool class or early school years, often focusing on children needing special support in their development. Tasks include planning, implementing, and following up on educational efforts, collaborating with other school staff, and establishing action plans. Contact with guardians is central, and the work is carried out in close dialogue with both student health services and school management. The work environment is characterized by variation and switching between individual work with students, group activities, and administrative tasks, where flexibility and the ability to handle rapid changes are important qualities.

Salary development over time

The salary for preschool teachers has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary has risen further to 45 900 SEK, which corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.7% over the period. This positive trend can be linked to increased demand for specialized educators and a general focus on strengthening salaries within the education sector. Salary development has also been influenced by labor market balance and investments in professional development, benefiting the profession both short and long term.

Preschool teacher salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, government sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month (female, public sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK
• Women: 46 000 SEK/month
• Men: 45 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 101 % of men's salaries

Education and qualifications

A preschool teacher needs to complete a teacher education program with specialization in preschool class or early school years, often supplemented with special education skills. Formal qualification requires a teacher degree, sometimes further education in special education. Practical components and experience working with children are usually required. Competition for places in these programs is fierce, and having a genuine interest in children's learning and development is advantageous.

• Teacher degree: Basic teacher degree with specialization in preschool class and grades 1–3 (3.5–4 years)
• Further education: Special education supplement (1 year)
• Practical training: Included as a mandatory part of the program
• Qualification requirements: Approved high school grades and special qualifications in Swedish and mathematics
• Tip: Experience from working with children or within schools is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Preschool teachers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and the possibility of holiday exchange. Other compensations may include overtime pay for work outside regular hours and insurance through the employer. Many workplaces also offer supervision and support from specialists within student health services.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a preschool teacher is currently moderate, meaning there is a balance between the supply of qualified candidates and employer needs. Challenges in the profession often involve meeting children with diverse needs and backgrounds, as well as working in environments with limited resources and time. Documentation requirements and collaboration with many different actors demand structure and teamwork skills. Despite these challenges, many professionals experience high job satisfaction and meaningfulness in their roles.

Tips for those who want to become preschool teachers

To succeed as a preschool teacher, it is helpful to combine engagement and patience with a good ability to build relationships. Showing sensitivity to each child's unique needs makes it easier to adapt teaching and create a safe learning environment. Communication skills are crucial both in interactions with children and in collaboration with colleagues and guardians, to convey information clearly and empathetically. Flexibility facilitates managing a workday that can change quickly, while structure and organizational skills are needed to balance teaching and documentation. Lastly, maintaining a positive attitude towards development is important, as methods and requirements evolve over time within schools.

Key facts about preschool teachers

• Education level: Basic teacher degree + special education training (4–5 years)
• Work form: Usually full-time, daytime
• Gender distribution: Predominantly women
• Demand: Moderate opportunities nationwide
• Available jobs: 434 advertised positions in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a preschool teacher, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as special education teacher, team leader, or mentor for colleagues. Further education can also lead to positions like development leader or principal. The Employment Service's forecast indicates that job opportunities are assessed as moderate and that demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The balance between supply and demand means good chances for employment, especially for those with special education skills and experience. Those interested in working with development issues or specializing further within specific areas have good prospects for career advancement within the school system.

Frequently asked questions about preschool teachers

• What does a preschool teacher earn?
  - A preschool teacher has an average salary of 45 900 SEK per month in 2024.
• What are the salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn an average of 46 000 SEK while men earn 45 500 SEK, meaning women have 101 % of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become a preschool teacher?
  - A basic teacher degree with specialization in preschool class and grades 1–3, often supplemented with special education training.
• Are there many job openings for preschool teachers?
  - There are 434 available jobs according to the latest statistics.
• What are the most common benefits for preschool teachers?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and insurance through the employer.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are moderate and that demand will remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for preschool teachers?
  - The highest salary is 50,700 SEK (female, public sector, research degree) and the lowest is 34,600 SEK (male, government sector, upper secondary education).