Home economics teacher, primary school

What does a home economics teacher do in primary school? – Tasks and work environment

A home economics teacher in primary school is responsible for teaching home and consumer studies and inspiring students to develop practical skills for everyday life. Tasks include planning and conducting lessons on cooking, nutrition, household economics, consumer rights, and environmental awareness. The teacher leads both theoretical and practical activities, often in specially equipped home economics rooms, where safety and hygiene are central. Collaboration with colleagues and contact with parents are included, and the work environment is characterized by creativity, variation, and high student engagement.

Salary development over time

The salary for home economics teachers in primary school has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,700 SEK per month, which increased to 39 000 SEK in 2023 and has reached 40 200 SEK in 2024. This represents an increase of approximately 6.6% over three years. The positive salary trend is mainly linked to increased demand for qualified teachers, a greater focus on practical subjects in schools, and general investments in teacher salaries. Although the job market for primary school teachers is expected to become more balanced in the future, home economics teachers continue to experience stable salary development, especially those with specialist skills and experience.

Home economics teacher, primary school salary – complete 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, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 242 SEK
• Women earn: 40 400 SEK/month (102 % of men's salary)
• Men earn: 39 700 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Data varies, but larger cities and regions with teacher shortages may offer somewhat higher salaries.

Education and qualifications

To work as a home economics teacher in primary school, a teacher degree with specialization in home and consumer studies is required, which includes both academic studies and practical training. The education combines subject knowledge with pedagogy and concludes with a teaching license. Self-study and further training in areas such as sustainability and nutrition can also be valuable to meet evolving demands in schools.

• Teacher education: Subject teacher degree with specialization in home and consumer studies (3.5–5 years)
• Teaching license: Required for permanent employment
• Practical training (VFU): Included as a mandatory part of the education
• Further training: Courses in nutrition, environment, and consumer economics
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility and specific subject requirements

Common benefits and compensations

Home economics teachers in primary school are often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pension, holiday pay, sick pay, and parental leave. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, professional development, and opportunities for further training and supervision during internships.

Challenges and competition

The job market for home economics teachers in primary school is characterized by balance, meaning the number of positions matches the number of applicants nationally. According to the Employment Service’s forecasts, the demand for primary school teachers is expected to decrease slightly over the next five years, which could lead to increased competition for positions. Challenges in the profession include staying up-to-date with current subject areas, managing large student groups, and working with varying resources and equipment. At the same time, there are opportunities for those who specialize or combine their teacher degree with other subjects.

Tips for aspiring home economics teachers in primary school

To succeed as a home economics teacher in primary school, it is beneficial to combine an pedagogical approach with practical problem-solving skills. A genuine interest in cooking and sustainability makes teaching more lively and engaging for students. Good organizational skills facilitate planning of both theory and practical lessons, especially in larger groups. Flexibility and patience are important qualities for working with students from diverse backgrounds and needs. Continuously updating your subject knowledge and participating in further training strengthen your professional role. Good communication skills contribute to effective collaboration with colleagues and parents. Finally, a positive attitude and creativity enable the creation of inspiring and meaningful lessons.

Key facts about home economics teachers in primary school

• Education level: Subject teacher degree (3.5–5 years) with license
• Work environment: School environment, often practical-oriented
• Common employment type: Permanent employment in the public sector
• Demand: Moderate, expected to decrease slightly over five years
• Special skills: Cooking, nutrition, consumer economics

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a home economics teacher in primary school, opportunities open for taking on more responsibilities, such as team leader, senior teacher, or subject coordinator within home and consumer studies. Some choose to further their education in pedagogy or special education to broaden their skills. According to the Employment Service, the job market for primary school teachers is generally balanced, but demand is expected to decrease slightly over five years. Despite this, there are still 434 available positions in the profession, and specialization or combining with other subjects can increase employability.

Frequently asked questions about home economics teachers in primary school

• What does a home economics teacher in primary school earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience, education level, and sector.
• How do gender differences in salary look for home economics teachers?
  - Women earn on average 40 400 SEK per month, which is 102 % of men's salary (39 700 SEK).
• What is the highest and lowest salary for home economics teachers?
  - The highest salary is 42,900 SEK (male, public sector, research education) and the lowest is 26,500 SEK (female, private sector, upper secondary education).
• What education is needed to become a home economics teacher?
  - A subject teacher degree with specialization in home and consumer studies and a teaching license are required.
• How is the job market for home economics teachers?
  - Opportunities are moderate and expected to decrease slightly over five years according to the Employment Service.
• Are there regional salary differences?
  - Yes, salaries can be somewhat higher in metropolitan areas or where there is a shortage of qualified teachers.
• What are common benefits for home economics teachers?
  - Occupational pension, holiday pay, wellness allowance, and professional development are common benefits.