What does a home economics teacher do in upper secondary school? – Tasks and work environment
A home economics teacher in upper secondary school is responsible for teaching subjects such as home and consumer studies, focusing on cooking, nutrition, economics, and daily life skills. The tasks include planning, conducting, and evaluating lessons, as well as assessing student performance according to current curriculum standards. Lessons can be both theoretical and practical, where students work in kitchens or on projects related to consumer issues. The work environment is characterized by a mix of classrooms, specialized kitchens, and sometimes field trips outside the school. Collaboration with colleagues and contact with guardians are common, as well as working with students from diverse backgrounds and prior knowledge.
Salary development over time
Over the past three years, home economics teachers in upper secondary school have experienced steady salary increases. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK per month, which increased to 41 400 SEK during 2023. In 2024, the average reached 42 700 SEK, representing a total increase of approximately 6.5% over the period. This salary trend reflects increased demand for qualified upper secondary teachers and general efforts to raise teacher salaries within the public sector. The shortage of subject teachers in certain specializations, along with higher requirements for pedagogical competence, has contributed to salary increases. Nonetheless, the growth is moderate and largely follows the overall salary development within the teaching profession.
Home economics teacher salary in upper secondary school – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, research education)
- Hourly wage: 257 SEK
- Women's salary: 42 700 SEK
- Men's salary: 42 600 SEK
- Gender differences: Women and men earn the same within this profession
- Regional differences: Data on regional differences is not available for this profession
Education and qualifications
To work as a home economics teacher in upper secondary school, an academic degree focusing on teaching and home and consumer studies is required. The most common route is the subject teacher program with relevant subject combinations, including pedagogy and subject specialization. Practical training and supervised teaching are central parts of the education, and a teaching license from the Swedish National Agency for Education is required for permanent employment.
- Subject teacher program: 4.5–5 years at university or college
- Teaching license: Required for permanent employment
- Workplace-based training (VFU): Included as part of the practical training
- Eligibility: Basic university entrance requirements and specific subject requirements
- Supplementary pedagogical education (KPU): Possible if subject knowledge is already acquired
A profession as a home economics teacher offers the opportunity to combine culinary passion with societal engagement – many actively work on issues related to sustainability, economy, and health, and are often pioneers in schools' work with practical life skills. It is common for home economics teachers to collaborate with other subject teachers to create comprehensive projects around topics like environment or entrepreneurship. The role requires both creativity and the ability to inspire young people to take responsibility for their daily lives.
Common benefits and compensations
Home economics teachers in upper secondary school are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, and wellness allowances. Other common compensations include professional development, work clothing during practical activities, and flexible working hours. In some cases, additional compensation for mentoring or supervisory roles may also occur.
Competition and challenges
The competition for positions as a home economics teacher in upper secondary school is currently moderate, with 434 available jobs in the field. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicate a balanced recruitment situation and moderate employment opportunities, with demand expected to remain stable over the next five years. Challenges in the profession include staying updated on new curricula, digital tools, and current societal issues. Since the subject often involves both theoretical and practical elements, it requires a particular ability to adapt teaching to different student groups and available resources. Some schools may have limited access to modern kitchen facilities or materials, which can affect the quality of teaching.
Tips for those wanting to become a home economics teacher in upper secondary school
To succeed as a home economics teacher, it is beneficial to combine pedagogical skills with a genuine interest in food, health, and daily life skills. Structured planning and the ability to create clear lesson plans facilitate work, especially when coordinating many practical activities. Flexibility is an important trait, as schedules and student groups often require adjustments. Being communicative and attentive helps in collaboration with students and colleagues, while engagement in sustainability issues and societal development is often appreciated. Continuous professional development and staying updated on new didactic methods are also valuable. Patience and the ability to motivate young people are crucial for enjoying and succeeding in the role.
Key facts about home economics teachers in upper secondary school
- Education level: Subject teacher program, 4.5–5 years
- Work environment: School environment with classrooms and practical kitchens
- Gender distribution: Equal pay between women and men
- Job market: 434 available jobs, moderate opportunities
- Special skills: Combination of pedagogy and practical subject knowledge
Career paths and future prospects
After three to five years in the profession, a home economics teacher in upper secondary school can advance to roles such as lead teacher, subject coordinator, or school principal. Further education can open opportunities in special education, school leadership, or development work within the school organization. The forecast from the Swedish Public Employment Service indicates moderate opportunities and a balanced recruitment situation, with stable demand over the next five years. Those interested in subject development or didactic research can also pursue further studies and projects in pedagogy. Regional differences may occur, but generally, the need for qualified home economics teachers remains high nationwide.
Frequently asked questions about home economics teachers in upper secondary school
- What does a home economics teacher earn in upper secondary school?
- The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 257 SEK.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- No, women and men earn the same within this profession.
- What education is required to become a home economics teacher in upper secondary school?
- Subject teacher program with specialization in home and consumer studies, 4.5–5 years, plus a teaching license.
- What is the job market like for home economics teachers?
- There are 434 available jobs and moderate opportunities, according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
- What are the main challenges in the profession?
- Balancing practical and theoretical teaching, staying updated, and adapting to different student groups.
- What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
- The highest salary is 48,400 SEK (female, public sector, research education), the lowest is 32,400 SEK (female, private sector, pre-secondary education).
- What career opportunities are available after a few years in the profession?
- Lead teacher, subject coordinator, school principal, or further education in pedagogy and research.
