Leisure assistant

What does a Fritidsassistent do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Fritidsassistent works to create meaningful and safe leisure activities for children, youth, and sometimes adults. Tasks can include planning and leading sports activities, cultural events, crafts, games, and social activities in various leisure settings. Fritidsassistenter often serve as adult role models and contribute to a positive and inclusive environment. The work usually takes place at youth centers, schools, or within municipal operations, requiring flexibility and the ability to meet diverse individual needs.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, the salary for a Fritidsassistent has shown steady and positive growth. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, increasing to 30 600 SEK in 2023. The latest data from 2024 shows a further increase to 31 900 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 7.4% over the period. The trend indicates growing recognition of the profession's importance, alongside increased competition for qualified Fritidsassistenter. Salary improvements are also linked to higher educational requirements and efforts to create attractive work environments within leisure activities.

Fritidsassistent 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
• Regional differences: Variations occur depending on employer and location, often in large cities or counties

Education and qualifications

To work as a Fritidsassistent, a high school diploma within the Child and Leisure Program is usually required, but post-secondary courses or leisure leader training are also advantageous. Practical experience with children and youth is highly valuable. Many employers value personal qualities such as teamwork, engagement, and good communication.

• High school education: Child and Leisure Program (3 years)
• Post-secondary education: Leisure leader training (1–2 years, folk high school)
• Internship: On-the-job learning is common
• Certifications: Courses in leadership, conflict management, and safety are advantageous
• Prerequisites: High school diploma or equivalent

Common benefits and compensations

Fritidsassistenter are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, professional development, subsidized lunches, and sometimes overtime pay for evening and weekend work. Pensions, collective agreements, and insurance are also common within the profession, especially in the public sector. Flexibility in working hours and opportunities for further training are appreciated by many employees.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Fritidsassistenter is characterized by balanced competition, where the number of qualified candidates matches the number of available positions. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, employment opportunities are moderate and expected to remain stable over the next five years. Challenges may include variable working hours, high social competence requirements, and sometimes limited resources within certain organizations. Larger cities often offer more positions, while competition can be tougher in smaller municipalities. Managing diverse needs and engaging youth requires patience and creativity.

Tips for those who want to become a Fritidsassistent

To succeed as a Fritidsassistent, it is beneficial to be attentive, proactive, and genuinely committed to youth development. Showing patience and the ability to listen to young people's needs contributes to a safe and inclusive environment. Flexibility and quick adaptation to different situations are also important, as the work often involves rapid changes and unexpected challenges. Good teamwork skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues, guardians, and other stakeholders. Continuously seeking new knowledge and participating in further training enhances confidence and work performance. A creative flair and willingness to inspire others make it easier to create activities that engage and motivate participants.

Key facts about Fritidsassistent

• Education level: High school diploma or leisure leader training
• Work environment: Youth centers, schools, and municipal activities
• Work schedule: Often scheduled day, evening, and weekend shifts
• Demand: Moderate national opportunities for employment
• Job openings: 237 within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Fritidsassistent, opportunities exist to advance to roles such as leisure leader, supervisor, or coordinator within leisure activities. Some choose to further their education as social pedagogues or work in student health and school development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for the profession is stable, with moderate opportunities for employment and an unchanged forecast over the next five years. Positions are mainly found in the municipal sector, but also within private and non-profit organizations. Those seeking variety and personal development have good prospects for growth within the field.

Frequently asked questions about Fritidsassistent

• What is the average salary of a Fritidsassistent?
  - The average salary is 31 900 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a Fritidsassistent?
  - High school education within the Child and Leisure Program is most common, but leisure leader training is also advantageous.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 102% of what men do within the profession.
• What does the job market look like for Fritidsassistenter?
  - Opportunities for employment are moderate and expected to remain unchanged in the coming years.
• Which workplaces hire Fritidsassistenter?
  - Most commonly, youth centers, schools, and municipal activities.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Fritidsassistent?
  - The highest salary is 37,600 SEK (male, municipal sector), the lowest is 27,400 SEK (male, private sector).
• What benefits are common?
  - Wellness allowances, professional development, pensions, and sometimes overtime pay.