Teacher, child and youth studies

What does a teacher specializing in children and youth studies do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher with a focus on children and youth studies primarily works in upper secondary schools and is responsible for teaching, guiding, and supporting students in their knowledge development. Tasks include planning and conducting lessons, assessing student performance, and developing pedagogical methods suited for young people. The teacher often collaborates with colleagues and student health teams to create a safe and inclusive environment. The work environment is characterized by a fast pace, social interaction, and demands for flexibility, where it is important to meet the diverse needs and backgrounds of youth.

Salary development over time

Salaries for teachers specializing in children and youth studies have steadily increased in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK per month, which increased to 41 400 SEK in 2023 and reached 42 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total salary increase of approximately 6.5% over three years. This development reflects a continued demand for qualified upper secondary teachers and an increased focus on the status and conditions of the teaching profession. Salary improvements may also be linked to collective agreements and investments in the education sector, where competition for qualified teachers has been noticeable.

Teacher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (female, private sector, pre-secondary education)
• Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (female, government sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 257 SEK
• Women/men: Women earn as much as men (women 42 700 SEK, men 42 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Data is limited or unavailable

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher with a focus on children and youth studies, a teaching degree with relevant subject specialization is usually required, obtained through higher education. The program includes both subject studies and pedagogy, as well as practical training in schools. Qualification to teach at the upper secondary level is essential, and sometimes additional courses or specialization are requested. Some employers may also value experience from similar work or extra engagement in student support.

• Teaching degree: 4–5 years (college/university)
• Subject studies: Focus on children and youth studies
• Practical training (VFU): Internship at an upper secondary school
• Qualification requirements: Completed teacher education and certification
• Additional training: Courses in special education or leadership

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers with a focus on children and youth studies are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, holiday pay, and wellness allowances. Further benefits may include staff discounts, professional development, and opportunities for further training. Many employers also provide subsidized lunches, flexible working hours, or reduced working hours during certain periods. Sick pay, parental leave, and insurance are other common employment conditions.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as teachers in children and youth studies is moderate, with 434 job openings in the entire profession according to the latest statistics. The Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast indicates a balanced recruitment situation and moderate employment opportunities, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified teachers in the field. Challenges in the profession include managing large student groups, varying student backgrounds, and demands for documentation and development work. Success requires a high degree of flexibility, good pedagogical skills, and teamwork ability.

Tips for those aspiring to become teachers in children and youth studies

To succeed as a teacher in children and youth studies, it is beneficial to be communicative and clear, as this facilitates teaching and contact with students and parents. Engagement in daily work and a genuine desire to support young people are crucial for building trust and a positive learning environment. Being organized helps manage planning and assessment efficiently, while patience and responsiveness make it easier to meet different students’ needs. Continuing education and participation in school development projects enhance competence and increase advancement opportunities. Collaboration skills are also important, as work often occurs in teams with other teachers and student health teams. Finally, being flexible and able to adapt teaching to changing conditions is valued by both students and colleagues.

Key facts about teachers in children and youth studies

• Education level: Teaching degree, 4–5 years (university/college)
• Work environment: Upper secondary school, often fast-paced with many social contacts
• Work form: Full-time, often daytime with some evening work for development talks
• Demand: Moderate employment opportunities, balanced labor market
• Special skills: Pedagogy, youth development, mentoring

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a teacher with a focus on children and youth studies can take on more responsibility, such as mentor, team leader, or senior teacher. There are also opportunities for further education in special education, school leadership, or subject development. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the recruitment situation is balanced, and opportunities for work are moderate, with an unchanged demand forecast over the next five years. Within the broader profession, there are good opportunities for specialization and career development, especially for those engaged in school development or further studies.

Frequently asked questions about teachers in children and youth studies

• What does a teacher in children and youth studies earn?
  - The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with an hourly wage of 257 SEK.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Women and men earn approximately the same in this profession, with only marginal differences.
• What education is required?
  - A teaching degree with a focus on children and youth studies, typically 4–5 years at college or university.
• What does the job market look like?
  - There are moderate employment opportunities, and the recruitment situation is balanced according to the Swedish Public Employment Service.
• What are the lowest and highest salaries?
  - The lowest salary is 32,400 SEK and the highest is 48,400 SEK per month.
• What are the career paths?
  - Opportunities include becoming a team leader, senior teacher, or taking on managerial roles within schools.
• What benefits are typically included?
  - Common benefits include occupational pension, wellness allowance, professional development, and insurance.