High school teachers, vocational subjects

What does a vocational subject high school teacher do? – Tasks and work environment

A vocational subject high school teacher is responsible for teaching practical and vocational courses at the upper secondary level. Tasks include planning and conducting lessons, supervising students in both theory and practical activities, and assessing students' knowledge and skills. Contact with working life is often central, as collaboration with companies and internships is a natural part of the education. The work environment varies between classrooms, workshops, and sometimes on-site at workplaces, requiring both pedagogical skills and professional expertise.

Salary development over time

The salary for vocational subject high school teachers has developed steadily in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, rising the following year to 40 200 SEK. In 2024, the average has increased further to 41 600 SEK, representing a total increase of about 6.4% over three years. Drivers of salary development include high demand for qualified vocational teachers and increased competition for skills, especially in shortage occupations. An increased focus on the quality of vocational training has also contributed to raising salary levels. The trend indicates continued steady growth, albeit at a slower pace compared to previous years.

Vocational high school teacher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 250 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 41 300 SEK, men 41 800 SEK (women 99 % of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but salaries can be higher in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a vocational subject high school teacher, both professional experience in the relevant field and pedagogical teacher training are required. The most common path is to first gain solid vocational competence and then complete a supplementary pedagogical education (KPU) focused on vocational subjects. Practical experience and updated industry knowledge are crucial for success in the role.

• Teacher training: Supplementary pedagogical education (KPU) for vocational teachers, approximately 1.5 years
• Professional experience: Several years of documented experience within the relevant vocational area
• Internship: VFU (workplace-based training) is included as a mandatory part
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary education and vocational training or equivalent work experience
• Subject specialization: Adapted to own vocational area and the school's needs

Common benefits and compensations

Vocational high school teachers are often covered by collective agreements that provide benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, professional development, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations may include overtime premiums for work outside regular hours and opportunities for further training and mentoring support.

Competition and challenges

The profession is characterized by high demand on the labor market but also challenges in recruiting qualified teachers with both pedagogical and professional competence. The recruitment situation is described as paradoxical, with difficulties in finding the right skills while mobility within the profession is high. Many leave the profession or work part-time, contributing to a constant shortage of qualified teachers. For those with the right education and current industry experience, competition for positions is relatively low, especially in occupations with teacher shortages.

Tips for those who want to become vocational high school teachers

To succeed as a vocational high school teacher, it is good to have strong pedagogical skills and a genuine interest in sharing your professional knowledge with young people. Flexibility and patience are important qualities, especially when adapting teaching to different students’ needs and conditions. Staying updated within your vocational field and collaborating with working life increases credibility and the ability to inspire students. Engagement and clear communication are crucial for creating a safe and developmental learning environment. Finally, it helps if you appreciate variety, as tasks often shift between theory, practice, and collaboration with external actors.

Key facts about Vocational High School Teachers

• Education level: Supplementary pedagogical training and professional experience
• Work environment: School, workshop, and sometimes workplaces outside school
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment nationwide
• Competence requirements: Combination of pedagogy and current professional knowledge
• Job openings: 434 positions nationwide (May 2024)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to take on advanced roles such as program coordinator, team leader, or mentor for new teachers. Some choose to further specialize in special education, school leadership, or subject deepening. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that opportunities for employment for vocational high school teachers are expected to be large over the coming five years, with unchanged demand at the national level. The profession is also characterized by recruitment difficulties, making skills and experience particularly valuable for future career development.

Frequently asked questions about Vocational High School Teachers

• What does a vocational subject high school teacher earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, but it varies with experience, education, and sector.
• What education is required to become a vocational subject high school teacher?
  - Supplementary pedagogical training (KPU) and documented professional experience within the relevant area.
• What does the job market look like for vocational high school teachers?
  - Job opportunities are plentiful and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Are there salary differences between genders?
  - Yes, men earn on average 41 800 SEK and women 41 300 SEK, which means women earn 99% of men's salaries.
• What influences the salary of vocational high school teachers?
  - Factors such as education level, experience, sector (municipal or private), and geographic location influence the salary.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK (male, private sector, doctoral degree) and the lowest is 34,400 SEK (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education).
• How many job openings are there for vocational high school teachers?
  - Currently, there are 434 vacancies nationwide.