Leisure center assistant

What does a leisure center assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

A leisure center assistant works closely with leisure teachers and childcare workers to support children aged six to twelve during their time at the leisure center. The work involves participating in and leading educational activities, assisting during meals and breaks, and creating a safe and stimulating environment for children's development and social interactions. The work environment is lively and dynamic, where flexibility and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously are very important. Leisure center assistants often work in teams and play a vital role in ensuring children's well-being and safety after school hours.

Salary development over time

The salary for a leisure center assistant has shown steady increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 25,800 SEK per month, which increased to 26 600 SEK in 2023 and now reaches 27 500 SEK in 2024. The total increase from 2022 to 2024 amounts to approximately 6.6%. This positive trend can partly be explained by an increased focus on working conditions in childcare as well as salary adjustments to reduce gender differences. Despite the profession belonging to a group where demand is assessed as unchanged nationally and there is a certain surplus of workforce, wages have continued to rise, possibly due to local shortages or employer initiatives to retain staff.

Leisure center 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: 165 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 105% of what men do (women: 27 600 SEK, men: 26 300 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on employer and region

Education and qualifications

To work as a leisure center assistant, usually no formal university education is required, but high school education with a focus on the child and leisure program is highly meritorious. Employers often seek experience working with children, good teamwork skills, and a strong commitment to children's development. It is also common for new hires to receive internal orientation and supervision at the workplace.

• High school diploma: Child and leisure program (3 years) is most common
• Practical training: Workplace-based learning during high school provides valuable experience
• Courses: Short courses in pedagogy or childcare are meritorious
• Pre-requisites: Often a criminal record extract is required
• Experience: Previous work with children is prioritized in recruitment

Common benefits and compensations

Leisure center assistants are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, holiday pay, and sometimes wellness allowances. Other common benefits include subsidized lunch, work clothing, and opportunities for professional development and training provided by the employer.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for leisure center assistants is characterized by a certain surplus of workforce, meaning competition for positions can be high, especially in larger cities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, opportunities for employment are expected to be limited, with demand remaining unchanged over five years. Challenges in the profession include managing large groups of children, meeting various individual needs, and working in a sometimes noisy and fast-paced environment. The ability to collaborate, be flexible, and have patience are crucial for success in the role.

Tips for those who want to become a leisure center assistant

To succeed as a leisure center assistant, it is good to have a genuine interest in children's development and strong communication skills in an educational manner. Being flexible makes it easier when the workday can change direction quickly and different situations arise. Initiative is valuable, as there are often opportunities to plan and lead activities for children. Teamwork skills are central since the work is done in teams and with colleagues from different professions. Additionally, patience and a positive attitude are helpful when challenging situations occur in the group. Good organizational skills help structure the day and create a safe environment for children. Finally, being creative is an advantage, as it contributes to making the activities stimulating and varied.

Key facts about leisure center assistants

• Education level: High school education recommended, usually child and leisure program
• Work environment: Social, active, and often noisy environment with many children
• Typical work hours: Daytime, employment via municipality or private school
• Job opportunities: Small, with some surplus of workforce according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Number of vacancies: Approximately 237 positions nationally in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years of experience as a leisure center assistant, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as childcare worker, leisure pedagogist, or student assistant, especially if additional training is completed. Many choose to further their education in pedagogy or social work to broaden their career options. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's national forecast for childcare workers, including leisure center assistants, the job market is stable but with limited opportunities for new employment and an oversupply of applicants. Demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, local variations may occur, especially in smaller municipalities or areas with high staff turnover.

Frequently asked questions about leisure center assistants

• What does a leisure center assistant earn?
  - A leisure center assistant has an average salary of 27 500 SEK per month.
• How does the difference between men and women look?
  - Women earn an average of 27 600 SEK while men earn 26 300 SEK, which means women have 105% of men's salary.
• What education is required to become a leisure center assistant?
  - High school education, especially the child and leisure program, is recommended but not always a formal requirement.
• What does the job market look like for leisure center assistants?
  - The job market is considered competitive with limited opportunities for new employment and a certain oversupply of applicants.
• How much does an hourly leisure center assistant earn?
  - The hourly wage for a leisure center assistant is approximately 165 SEK.
• What are the most common tasks?
  - Supporting children in their leisure activities, assisting during meals, and creating a safe environment.
• Are there opportunities for further education?
  - Yes, there are opportunities to further educate yourself as, for example, a childcare worker or leisure pedagogist.