Teacher, bakery and patisserie

What does a teacher in bakery and confectionery do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher in bakery and confectionery instructs high school students or adult learners in practical and theoretical aspects related to baking, confectionery craft, and food hygiene. Responsibilities include planning and conducting lessons, supervising in the school's bakery or confectionery, and assessing students' knowledge and skills. It is common to work closely with the industry to keep teaching current and ensure students gain practical experience aligned with workplace requirements. The work environment combines classroom teaching with practical work in environments with machinery, heat, and food, where safety and hygiene are central considerations.

Salary development over time

Bakery and confectionery teachers have seen a steady increase in average monthly salary over the past three years. In 2022, the average was 39,100 SEK, followed by 40 200 SEK in 2023, and finally 41 600 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.4% over the period, which is slightly higher than the average salary growth in many other education sectors. The salary increase can partly be explained by rising demand for vocational teachers with industry-specific skills and general efforts to raise teacher salaries. The trend also indicates that employers value the practical experience and specialized knowledge required to teach in bakery and confectionery. Despite a relatively small gender pay gap, men still earn marginally higher salaries than women in the profession.

Bakery and confectionery teacher salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal, 3-year high school education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage (average): 250 SEK
• Women: 41 300 SEK/month (99% of men's salary)
• Men: 41 800 SEK/month

• Regional differences: Data not available

Education and qualifications

To become a teacher in bakery and confectionery, a combination of industry experience from the bakery or confectionery sector and pedagogical training is required. Typically, one starts with a high school education in food or bakery, followed by several years of practical experience. Then, a vocational teacher training program at university level is necessary, focusing on pedagogy and subject didactics. Internships during training provide opportunities to develop pedagogical leadership in real classrooms and bakery environments.

• Vocational teacher training at university: 1.5–2 years (depending on prior knowledge)
• Industry experience: Several years of practical work in bakery/confectionery required
• Internship (VFU): Workplace-based training included in teacher education
• Prerequisites: High school diploma in food or equivalent
• Additional courses: Hygiene, special diets, machinery safety

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in bakery and confectionery are often covered by collective agreements that provide occupational pensions, holiday pay, sick pay, and insurance. It is also common to have wellness allowances, professional development opportunities, and further training in pedagogy and bakery techniques. In some cases, work clothing and subsidized meals during work hours are offered.

Competition and challenges

The job market for bakery and confectionery teachers is characterized by high demand but also recruitment difficulties. Many schools struggle to find qualified vocational teachers with both pedagogical training and extensive industry experience. The profession also involves balancing practical teaching with theoretical components and staying updated on new trends and techniques in bakery and confectionery. The rapid development in the food industry requires continuous skills development, and workload can be high at times, especially during major projects or competitions.

Tips for aspiring bakery and confectionery teachers

To succeed as a teacher in bakery and confectionery, it’s important to combine a genuine passion for the craft with pedagogical skill. Initiative is valuable for planning inspiring lessons and projects, while patience helps in supervising students at different skill levels. Flexibility is a strength in an environment where both technology and trends change rapidly, and teamwork facilitates contact with colleagues, industry representatives, and students’ practical placements. Communication skills are crucial for explaining complex concepts clearly and creating a safe learning environment. Finally, being creative and curious helps to continuously develop both teaching and personal expertise.

Key facts about bakery and confectionery teachers

• Education level: Vocational teacher training at university + industry experience
• Work environment: School with bakery/confectionery facilities, practical and theoretical work
• Demand: Great employment opportunities, 434 available jobs nationwide
• Gender distribution: Small salary difference between women and men (99%)
• Occupational group: Teachers in vocational subjects (SSYK 2320)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a bakery and confectionery teacher, opportunities exist to develop into roles such as team leader, training coordinator, or to take responsibility for internships and industry contacts. Some choose to further their education in pedagogy or special education, while others engage in school development projects or competitions. The Swedish Employment Service’s forecast indicates good future prospects and ample opportunities within the vocational teaching field, despite recruitment challenges. The demand is expected to remain stable over the next five years, ensuring continued stability and career opportunities.

Frequently asked questions about bakery and confectionery teachers

• What does a teacher in bakery and confectionery earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK/month, with variation depending on education, experience, and sector.
• What education is required to become a teacher in bakery and confectionery?
  - Vocational teacher training at university and several years of experience from the bakery or confectionery industry are required.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, but the difference is small. Women earn 99% of men's salaries in the profession.
• What is the job market like for bakery and confectionery teachers?
  - Opportunities for employment are plentiful, with approximately 434 available jobs nationwide.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Benefits include occupational pension, holiday pay, wellness allowance, and opportunities for further training.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK/month and the lowest 34,400 SEK/month, depending on education, sector, and experience.