Gymnastics teacher, primary school

What does a primary school physical education teacher do? – Tasks and work environment

A primary school physical education teacher is responsible for planning, implementing, and evaluating lessons in the subject of sports and health for students of various ages. The work involves creating varied and safe lessons that motivate students to engage in physical activity, movement, and health knowledge. The work environment is often dynamic and can vary between gyms, outdoor environments, and classrooms, depending on the season and teaching activities. Collaboration with other teachers and school management is common, and it also includes supervising students, participating in development projects, and sometimes organizing outdoor days or competitions.

Salary development over time

The salary for primary school physical education teachers has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,700 SEK, followed by an increase to 39 000 SEK in 2023, and further up to 40 200 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total salary increase of approximately 6.4% during the period. This positive development can be linked to continued demand for qualified teachers, an increased focus on health in schools, and general salary adjustments within the public sector. Gender pay gaps have also decreased, with women now earning slightly more on average than men in the profession. The trend shows that the profession continues to be valued and that employers invest in retaining competent educators within schools.

Primary school physical education teacher salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,900 SEK/month (male, government sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Women/men: Women earn 40 400 SEK, men 39 700 SEK (women 102% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Variations between regions may occur depending on the school authority and local agreements.

Education and qualifications

To work as a primary school physical education teacher, a teaching degree with a focus on sports and health is required. The educational path includes both academic studies and practical training (internship) to build pedagogical and subject-specific competence. Additional courses are also common for specific qualifications or to broaden subject expertise.

• Teaching degree with a focus on sports and health: 4–5 years of university studies
• Practical training (internship): Included in the program
• Additional courses: For special qualifications or broadening
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility for university studies
• Tips for choosing: Focus on pedagogical skills and interest in movement and health

Common benefits and compensations

Primary school physical education teachers often have collective agreements that provide security regarding salary, vacation, sick leave, and pension. Common benefits include wellness allowances, professional development, work clothing, and sometimes opportunities for further education with salary. Trust-based working hours and favorable working times are also common, especially within the municipal sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as primary school physical education teachers is considered moderate, with a job market currently characterized by a balance between supply and demand. However, demand is expected to decrease slightly over five years, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service. Challenges in the profession may include meeting students with diverse needs, working with limited resources, and staying updated on new curricula and pedagogical methods. There is also an expectation to contribute to the school's overall work on health and well-being, which may require extra engagement and collaboration.

Tips for those interested in becoming a primary school physical education teacher

To succeed as a primary school physical education teacher, it is good to have strong pedagogical skills and a genuine interest in children's development. Being attentive and flexible makes it easier to adapt teaching to different student groups and situations. Good physical health and endurance are important qualities, as the work is often active and energy-consuming. It is also valuable to be initiative-taking and creative, which can inspire students and create variation in teaching. The ability to collaborate with colleagues and guardians is central, as is clear communication. Finally, being solution-oriented, especially when dealing with safety, inclusion, and motivation challenges in the classroom, is an advantage.

Key facts about primary school physical education teachers

• Education level: Teaching degree with a focus on sports and health (4–5 years)
• Work environment: Varies; gym, outdoors, classroom
• Demand: Moderate, balanced job market
• Job openings: 434 in the profession
• Gender distribution: Women have slightly higher average salaries than men

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a primary school physical education teacher, there are opportunities to develop into roles such as senior teacher, team leader, or subject coordinator, depending on the school's organization and further training. Further education can also open doors to roles like special education teacher, school principal, or trainer in sports at higher levels. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the job market is balanced but demand is expected to decrease slightly over five years, making broad subject competence and experience working with diverse groups increasingly important. The profession also offers good opportunities to work on development projects or further specialize in areas such as health, training science, or leadership, which can strengthen career prospects further.

Frequently asked questions about primary school physical education teachers

• What does a primary school physical education teacher earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education, and sector.
• What are the gender differences in salary for primary school physical education teachers?
  - Women earn on average 40 400 SEK, which is 102% of men's average salary of 39 700 SEK.
• What education is required to become a primary school physical education teacher?
  - A teaching degree with a focus on sports and health, involving 4–5 years of university studies.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can vary depending on the school authority and local agreements, but exact figures differ between regions.
• What is the job market like for primary school physical education teachers?
  - There are about 434 job openings in the profession, and the job market is considered balanced, but demand is expected to decrease over five years.
• What are the common benefits?
  - Wellness allowances, professional development, work clothing, and collective agreement-based conditions on salary and pension are common benefits.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a primary school physical education teacher?
  - The highest salary is 42,900 SEK (male, government sector, research education) and the lowest is 26,500 SEK (female, private sector, upper secondary education).