Leisure instructor

What does a Fritidsinstruktör do? – Tasks and Work Environment

A Fritidsinstruktör works with planning, leading, and developing leisure activities for children, youth, or adults in various environments. Tasks include organizing activities, guiding participants, creating safe social contexts, and collaborating with colleagues, parents, and external actors. The role often involves responsibility for adapting activities to the group's needs and encouraging participation and personal development. The work environment can vary between youth centers, schools, sports facilities, or other meeting places, characterized by a social and relationship-building focus.

Salary development over time

The salary for a Fritidsinstruktör has increased steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 29,600 SEK per month, rising to 30 600 SEK in 2023 and further to 31 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 8% during the period. This positive salary trend reflects an increased focus on quality and competence within leisure activities and a growing need for qualified leaders. The demand for personnel in the profession has been relatively stable, contributing to a balanced salary development without major fluctuations or sudden peaks.

Fritidsinstruktör salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 31 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,400 SEK/month (male), 28,000 SEK/month (female)
• Highest salary: 37,600 SEK/month (male), 35,700 SEK/month (female)
• Hourly wage: 192 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 102% of what men do (men 31 500 SEK, women 32 100 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To work as a Fritidsinstruktör, a high school or post-secondary education focused on leisure activities, pedagogy, or social work is usually required. Many employers also value experience working with children or youth, as well as good teamwork and leadership skills. Further training and shorter courses can be advantageous, especially within special education, conflict management, or sports leadership.

• Basic education: Leisure leader training at a folk high school (2 years)
• Alternative: Upper secondary education with a focus on children and leisure
• Additional courses: Leadership, pedagogy, conflict management
• Internship: Often included in the education
• Experience requirements: Previous work in leisure activities is advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Common benefits for a Fritidsinstruktör include wellness allowances, professional development, flexible working hours, and opportunities for further education. Employment within municipal sectors may also include extra vacation days, pension contributions, and sometimes subsidized lunch or work clothing.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a Fritidsinstruktör is considered moderate, and the job market is characterized by a balance between supply and demand. The number of available jobs in the profession is currently 237, indicating stable demand. Challenges in the profession include adapting activities to changing needs, working with groups with different prerequisites, and handling administrative tasks beyond the pedagogical work. The profession also requires the ability to quickly resolve conflicts and create inclusive environments for all participants. For those wishing to develop, it is important to stay updated on new methods and trends within the leisure sector.

Tips for aspiring Fritidsinstruktörer

To succeed as a Fritidsinstruktör, it is beneficial to combine a genuine interest in people with high creativity and initiative. Being attentive and having good communication skills facilitates collaboration with participants and colleagues, helps build relationships, and prevents conflicts. Flexibility is an important trait, as the work environment and participants’ needs often change rapidly. Those who are solution-oriented will find it easier to handle unexpected situations. Gaining practical experience through summer jobs, internships, or volunteer work in leisure activities is recommended, as well as taking own initiatives for activities or projects. Continuing education and participating in networks or industry meetings provide valuable insights and inspiration for daily work.

Key facts about Fritidsinstruktör

• Education level: Post-secondary education or high school with a focus on children and leisure
• Work environment: Youth centers, schools, sports facilities, and other meeting places
• Common employment forms: Full-time, but part-time and hourly positions also occur
• Demand: Moderate, with approximately 237 available jobs in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women have slightly higher average salaries than men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, Fritidsinstruktörer can advance to supervisory roles such as coordinators or managers of leisure activities. Opportunities also exist to further education in pedagogy, social work, or specialized fields like sports and culture. According to the Swedish Employment Service's forecast, the opportunities for employment are considered moderate, and the recruitment situation is balanced. Over a five-year period, demand for Fritidsinstruktörer is expected to remain unchanged nationally. Those wishing to broaden their career options can also consider related professions, such as youth coach, activity leader, or social pedagogue.

Common questions about Fritidsinstruktör

• What is the average salary of a Fritidsinstruktör?
  - The average salary is 31 900 SEK per month.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 32 100 SEK and men 31 500 SEK; women earn approximately 102% of what men do.
• How has the salary development looked for a Fritidsinstruktör?
  - The salary has increased from 29,600 SEK in 2022 to 31 900 SEK in 2024.
• What education is required to become a Fritidsinstruktör?
  - Most commonly, leisure leader education at a folk high school or upper secondary education with a focus on children and leisure.
• What does the job market look like for Fritidsinstruktörer?
  - The job market is considered balanced with moderate opportunities for employment.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Fritidsinstruktör?
  - The highest salary is 37,600 SEK (male), 35,700 SEK (female); the lowest salary is 27,400 SEK (male), 28,000 SEK (female).
• What common benefits are offered?
  - Wellness allowances, professional development, and flexible working hours are common.