Peer supporter salary

Peer Supporter: Job Role and Responsibilities

As a peer supporter, often included in the group of professional student assistants, you play a crucial role in supporting children and young people in school environments. The job involves providing support to students with special needs, both inside and outside the classroom. You may also work on promoting a positive social environment and act as a link between students, teachers, and sometimes parents. It requires a high level of empathy, communication skills, and patience.

Educational Requirements and Qualifications for Peer Supporter

To work as a peer supporter, formal education is usually not required, but experience working with children and young people is highly valuable. Many employers prefer applicants with a high school education in pedagogy or social work, and sometimes internal training is offered to enhance specific skills needed in the profession. For those seeking further education, courses in special education or related subjects can be greatly advantageous.

Salary Statistics for Peer Supporter

The average salary for a peer supporter is 27 500 SEK per month. There is a slight difference between genders, with women earning an average of 27 600 SEK, which is 101% of men's average salary of 27 300 SEK. For peer supporters employed on an hourly basis, the average is 165 SEK per hour, based on 166 working hours per month.

Salary Development

There has been a slight increase in the average salary for peer supporters, from 26 600 SEK to 27 500 SEK since the last measurement. The highest recorded salary for a peer supporter is 31900 SEK, held by a woman in the public sector with a doctoral degree. On the other hand, the lowest salary for the profession is 25200 SEK, for a woman with less than 9 years of pre-secondary education.

Future Prospects and Job Market

The job market for peer supporters, or student assistants, is nationally assessed to have limited opportunities. Forecasts from the Swedish Public Employment Service show that the demand for these positions is expected to remain unchanged over a five-year period. The recruitment situation is characterized by an excess supply, meaning there are more job seekers than available jobs in this field.

Working Conditions and Benefits

Working conditions for peer supporters can vary depending on the workplace and employer. There are rarely formal benefits such as paid training or the opportunity to work from home, as the profession largely requires physical presence and direct interaction with students. However, some schools may offer further training or workshops to develop the staff's skills.

Considerations if You Want to Work as a Peer Supporter

Working as a peer supporter can be incredibly rewarding but also demanding. It is important to have a genuine interest in working with children and young people and the ability to handle stress and unpredictable situations. Good communication and collaboration with teachers and other school staff are crucial for success in the role.

Summary

Peer supporters play a critical role in school environments, focusing on supporting students with special needs. With an average salary of 27 500 SEK and a slight increase since the last measurement, the profession offers stability but limited future prospects according to current forecasts. For those passionate about making a difference in young people's lives, this profession offers a meaningful career.