Teaching Assistant

What does a teaching assistant do? – Tasks and work environment

Teaching assistants work closely with teachers and students in elementary and secondary schools. Their tasks include supporting teachers in planning and conducting lessons, assisting with practical activities in the classroom, and providing individual support to students as needed. Many teaching assistants also handle administrative tasks, such as documenting student progress, preparing materials, and coordinating activities. The work environment is typically school-based, with daily contact with children, adolescents, and educational staff. Much of the work takes place in classroom settings where flexibility, patience, and good communication skills are crucial.

Salary development over time

The salary of teaching assistants has shown a steady but clearly positive trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 26,600 SEK per month. In 2023, it increased to 27 500 SEK, representing an increase of approximately 3.4%. In 2024, the average salary continues to rise to 28 300 SEK, a further increase of about 2.9% compared to the previous year. This salary growth can be linked to increased awareness of the importance of support staff in schools and the impact of inflation on salary setting. Despite the demand for teaching assistants being assessed as unchanged nationally, competition for qualified personnel and the need for skilled support in schools have likely contributed to this positive salary development.

Teaching assistant salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,200 SEK/month (female), 26,900 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 33,000 SEK/month (female), 33,100 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 170 SEK/hour
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do (28 400 SEK vs 28 200 SEK)

Education and qualifications

To work as a teaching assistant, a high school diploma is generally required, often with a focus on children and leisure or pedagogy. Increasingly, employers also seek post-secondary courses or training specifically tailored for the teaching assistant role. Practical experience working with children and adolescents is highly valued, and many supplement their knowledge with shorter courses or internships.

• High school diploma: Child and leisure programs or similar (3 years)
• Post-secondary courses: Teaching assistant training at folk high schools or YH (6–24 months)
• Internship: Practical placements or trainee periods are common during training
• Prerequisites: Usually at least a high school education, sometimes experience working with children
• Certifications/courses: Additional qualifications such as special education or conflict management are advantageous

Common benefits and compensations

Teaching assistants are often covered by collective agreements and are offered occupational pension, holiday pay, and wellness contributions. In some municipalities, subsidized lunches, professional development, or further training opportunities are also provided. Compensation for unsociable hours may be applicable for certain schedules.

Competition and challenges

The job market for teaching assistants is characterized by high competition and a national oversupply of applicants, according to the latest forecast from the Employment Service. Despite there being 434 available positions within the profession, opportunities are limited in many areas. Challenges often involve differentiating oneself through the right education and experience, as well as meeting the diverse needs of students in an evolving school environment. The profession requires great flexibility and the ability to quickly adapt to various tasks, which can be demanding but also rewarding for the right person.

Tips for those who want to become a teaching assistant

To succeed as a teaching assistant, it is beneficial to combine a commitment to children's development with an attentive and flexible attitude. Demonstrating patience and the ability to build trust with students and colleagues is crucial, along with actively seeking internships and gaining experience in the school environment. Good collaboration skills facilitate support during teaching situations, and being proactive helps with administrative and pedagogical tasks. Continuing education, such as short courses in special education or conflict management, enhances employment prospects. The ability to handle stress and adapt quickly to new situations is also important, especially in schools where student needs can change rapidly.

Key facts about teaching assistants

• Education level: High school diploma, often supplemented with folk high school or YH training
• Work environment: School-based, close cooperation with teachers and students
• Work form: Usually full-time, but part-time and hourly positions also exist
• Demand: Limited opportunities nationally, oversupply of applicants
• Available jobs: Approximately 434 advertised positions in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a teaching assistant, there are opportunities to develop within the school, such as through further training to become a student assistant, leisure leader, or teacher. For those interested in specializing in special education, additional training can open doors to more specialized roles, such as resource pedagogues or working with students requiring additional support. The Employment Service's forecast indicates that demand for teaching assistants is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years, with a continued oversupply of applicants. This means competition will remain high, but those combining experience with further education will have better chances of obtaining more qualified assignments or advancing within the educational sector.

Frequently asked questions about teaching assistants

• What does a teaching assistant earn?
  - A teaching assistant has an average salary of 28 300 SEK per month, but salaries range from 26,200 to 33,100 SEK depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How do you become a teaching assistant?
  - Most commonly, a high school diploma in child and leisure programs, along with supplementary courses or education at a folk high school or YH.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn slightly more than men on average; 28 400 SEK compared to 28 200 SEK, which corresponds to 101% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like for teaching assistants?
  - The job market is characterized by limited opportunities and a national oversupply of applicants, but there are still about 434 available positions within the profession.
• What education is required to work as a teaching assistant?
  - At least a high school diploma is required, often with a focus on children and leisure, and preferably supplementary courses or training in pedagogy.
• What personal qualities are important for a teaching assistant?
  - Patience, teamwork skills, flexibility, and good communication are essential qualities for success in the role.
• Are there development opportunities within the profession?
  - Yes, further education can lead to roles such as student assistant, leisure leader, or teacher.