Boarding school director

What does a boarding school principal do? – tasks and work environment

A boarding school principal is responsible for the daily operations and management of boarding activities, often connected to schools, folk high schools, or educational institutions where students live on-site. Tasks include personnel management, scheduling, budgeting, property management, and coordinating activities for resident students. The role requires close collaboration with other school leaders, pedagogical staff, and sometimes parents. The work environment is varied and can involve both administrative tasks in an office and presence in communal areas of the boarding facility. A boarding school principal often needs to be available outside regular office hours and possess strong skills in handling practical and social matters.

Salary development over time

Boarding school principals have experienced steady and positive salary growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40,000 SEK per month, followed by a slight increase to 39 900 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the salary has risen further to 41 600 SEK, representing an approximate 4.3 percent increase compared to the previous year. This rise can partly be explained by an increased focus on leadership and competence within boarding operations, as well as higher requirements for education level and experience. The market for boarding school principals is also influenced by the number of boarding facilities and educational institutions offering on-site accommodation, where demand for qualified leaders remains stable. Salary increases also reflect changes in collective agreements and increased competition for experienced managers.

Boarding school principal salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 36,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, up to 2 years of upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 45,400 SEK/month (male, public sector, at least 3 years of post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 250 SEK/hour
• Women's average salary: 42 400 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Limited data, but variations may occur depending on proximity to larger educational centers

Education and qualifications

To work as a boarding school principal, a post-secondary education of at least three years is generally required, often in pedagogy, social work, hotel and restaurant management, or similar fields. Experience in leadership and strong knowledge of finance and administration are highly meritorious. Practical experience from boarding facilities, schools, or similar operations is highly valued, and it is common for professionals to have supplementary training or certifications in leadership and work environment management.

• Formal degree: Post-secondary education (minimum 3 years)
• Certifications: Leadership courses and work environment training
• Practical experience: From boarding facilities, student accommodations, or the education sector
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary school diploma and relevant work experience
• Tips: Combining pedagogical and administrative skills is highly valuable

Common benefits and compensations

Boarding school principals are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, extra vacation days, wellness grants, and sometimes flexible working hours. Additional benefits may include staff training, work clothing, subsidized meals, and access to staff accommodation at certain boarding facilities.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a boarding school principal is moderate, with a total of 123 available jobs in the profession according to recent figures. Challenges in the role often involve balancing high demands for leadership and responsibility with limited resources, while the work environment can be intense and expectations from both students and employers are high. An additional challenge is creating safe and inclusive living environments, especially in larger boarding facilities with diverse student populations. Digitalization and changing regulations within the education sector also require continuous professional development and adaptability.

Tips for those aspiring to become a boarding school principal

To succeed as a boarding school principal, good communication skills and the ability to handle different types of people professionally are important. Being organized facilitates scheduling and administrative work, while flexibility is necessary to quickly resolve unforeseen situations. Good leadership, characterized by empathy and clarity, helps build trust with staff and students. Actively gaining experience in student accommodations or similar settings enhances understanding of industry challenges. Further education in leadership and work environment management provides an advantage, as does building a network within the education sector. Finally, demonstrating engagement in youth development and well-being is often a key part of the role.

Key facts about boarding school principals

• Educational level: Post-secondary education of at least 3 years
• Work environment: Schools, folk high schools, and educational boarding facilities
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time with some on-call or standby duties
• Demand: 123 available jobs in the profession
• Special skills: Leadership, administration, and conflict management

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a boarding school principal, there are good opportunities to advance to senior management roles within the education sector, such as operations manager or administrative director for larger schools and educational organizations. Some choose to specialize in student health, HR, or property management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts, the demand for boarding school principals is expected to remain stable, especially within folk high schools and specialized educational institutions where the need for competent leaders is high. Digitalization and increased focus on student safety may also create new career opportunities for professionals with the right skills.

Frequently asked questions about boarding school principals

• What does a boarding school principal earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variation depending on experience and education.
• What education is required to become a boarding school principal?
  - A post-secondary education of at least three years in pedagogy, leadership, or similar fields is recommended.
• What is the work environment like for a boarding school principal?
  - The work primarily takes place at schools and boarding facilities, often involving both administrative and practical tasks.
• Are there differences in salary between men and women?
  - Women earn on average 42 400 SEK per month; data on men's average salary is unavailable, but the highest salary for men is 45,400 SEK.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Leadership, empathy, structure, and flexibility are central qualities for a successful boarding school principal.
• What are the future prospects?
  - The outlook is stable with continued demand, especially within folk high schools and educational boarding facilities.