Consultant, school

What does a consultant in schools do? – Tasks and work environment

A consultant in schools supports school staff, students, and sometimes guardians in pedagogical, social, and organizational matters. Tasks vary depending on school type and principal, but common activities include mentoring teachers, developing student health and inclusion initiatives, and implementing measures to prevent and address various issues in the school environment. The consultant often acts as a link between school management, student health teams, and external actors, requiring both pedagogical insight and strong collaboration skills. The work environment is diverse and can include both office work and activities at schools, often with a fast pace and multiple projects running simultaneously.

Salary development over time

The salary for a consultant in schools has steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, while in 2023 it increased to 44 400 SEK and reached 45 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over a three-year period, which is slightly above the average for the education sector overall. This positive trend can partly be explained by increased demand for qualified specialists in schools, increased complexity in school tasks, and a growing focus on student health work. Both public and private sectors have contributed to salary development, and women have experienced a somewhat faster salary increase compared to men within the profession.

Consultant, school salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK
• Women: 46 000 SEK
• Men: 45 500 SEK
• Women earn: 101% of what men do
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries are often seen in metropolitan regions

Education and qualifications

To work as a consultant in schools, a university degree in pedagogy, special education, psychology, or social work is generally required. Many have previous experience as teachers, special educators, or school counselors and pursue further training to obtain a more consultative role. Several employers also seek experience in mentoring, project management, or development work within the education sector.

• Formal degree: Teacher education or degree in pedagogy/special education (3–5 years)
• Further training: Special education programs, mentoring courses, or equivalent
• Practical experience: Several years of work in a school environment, preferably in student health teams
• Certifications: Courses in mentoring, conflict management, or project management
• Prerequisites: Experience of pedagogical work and good references

Common benefits and compensations

Consultants in schools are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, and extra vacation. Occasionally, compensation for travel between schools, professional development, and access to mentoring and work tools are included. Flexible working hours are also common, especially in larger municipalities and organizations.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a consultant in schools is considered moderate, with a balance between supply and demand according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecasts. Challenges in the profession often involve handling complex student cases, coordinating efforts between different actors, and staying updated within a changing educational landscape. The role requires both high pedagogical competence and the ability to work consultatively. Workload can be high at times, especially during term starts and major change initiatives. Employers often seek documented experience in school development, which increases competition for the most attractive positions.

Tips for aspiring consultants in schools

To succeed as a consultant in schools, it’s beneficial to combine pedagogical skills with strong collaboration and listening abilities. Good interpersonal skills and social competence are crucial for gaining trust from colleagues and students, so developing communication skills is recommended. Being flexible and open to change is also important, as tasks often vary and conditions can shift quickly. Experience in mentoring or project management is advantageous, which can be gained through further training or involvement in school development projects. Precision and analytical skills help evaluate and improve activities, while a solution-oriented approach facilitates teamwork within student health teams and workgroups. Finally, ongoing professional development is essential, as the school world changes rapidly and new challenges continuously arise.

Key facts about Consultant, school

• Education level: University degree in pedagogy or special education
• Work environment: Varied between office and school settings
• Typical role: Consultative role within the public sector
• Demand: 434 job openings in the profession in 2024
• Gender distribution: Women earn on average 101% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a consultant in schools can advance to leadership roles such as development manager, coordinator for student health, or transition into strategic positions within educational administration. Some choose to specialize in areas like neuropsychiatric disabilities or intercultural pedagogy, opening new career opportunities. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, demand for special educators and special education teachers is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with moderate job opportunities and a balanced recruitment situation. There are good prospects for continued professional development and specialization through courses, networks, and research projects. Regionally, competition may vary, but metropolitan areas often offer more career opportunities and specialized roles.

Frequently asked questions about Consultant, school

• What does a Consultant, school earn?
  - The average salary is 45 900 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 276 SEK.
• What education is required to become a Consultant, school?
  - Academic degree in pedagogy, special education, or equivalent, along with work experience in schools.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What are the outlooks for the future?
  - Demand is expected to remain unchanged with moderate job opportunities over the next five years.
• What is the highest and lowest salary?
  - The highest salary is 50,700 SEK/month, and the lowest is 34,600 SEK/month.
• What benefits are usually included?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, extra vacation, and professional development.
• What is the work environment like for a Consultant, school?
  - The role involves a varied environment between offices and schools, often with a high pace and consultative work.