Teachers, clothing professions

What does a teacher in clothing and textile professions do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher in clothing and textile professions instructs students in practical and theoretical aspects related to textiles, fashion, sewing, and design at upper secondary vocational programs or adult education. Tasks include planning and delivering lessons, supervising students in workshops and sewing studios, and assessing and documenting their skills and progress. The profession requires both pedagogical skill and deep industry knowledge within textiles and clothing production. The work environment is often creative and hands-on, with access to modern machines and materials. Collaboration with colleagues, contacts with industry, and sometimes supervising students during internships are important parts of the role.

Salary development over time

Salaries for teachers in clothing and textile professions have shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, increasing to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and reaching 41 600 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a total increase of approximately 6.4 % during the period. The positive trend reflects increased demand for vocational teachers, especially in areas with a shortage of specialist skills. Salary development can also be linked to investments in vocational training and the need to attract more experienced professionals to teaching roles. Despite the overall increase, regional and gender-related differences within the profession remain.

Teacher salaries in clothing and textile professions – complete overview

• Average salary: 41 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,400 SEK/month (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 47,600 SEK/month (male, private sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 250 SEK
• Women's average salary: 41 300 SEK/month (99% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 41 800 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employment type

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in clothing and textile professions, a combination of solid industry experience in textiles and fashion and a pedagogical education is required. Many who choose the profession have backgrounds as seamstresses, designers, or within the textile industry. The educational pathway typically includes a vocational teacher degree, which encompasses subject knowledge and pedagogy. Internships and supervision are central, as well as ongoing training in new techniques, materials, and industry trends.

• Vocational teacher degree: University-level education, often 1.5–2 years (advanced on relevant industry experience)
• Internship: Teaching internship/supervised teaching included in the program
• Prerequisites: Documented industry experience in textiles, fashion, or sewing
• Additional courses: Pedagogy, special education, and subject didactics
• Advice for choosing: Combine practical experience with pedagogical education for best opportunities

Common benefits and compensations

Teachers in clothing and textile professions are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pensions, sick insurance, and holiday pay. Other common benefits include wellness grants, skills development, and flexible working hours. Some employers also offer subsidized meals, work clothing, and opportunities to participate in industry fairs or further training courses.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as teachers in clothing and textile professions is generally low, but several challenges exist. Recruitment is characterized by difficulties in finding qualified teachers with both pedagogical training and industry experience. At the same time, some leave the profession or work part-time, creating a paradoxical situation where there is both unemployment and high demand. Technological development and changing requirements in the textile industry also mean continuous professional development is necessary to stay updated. Workload can be high during certain periods, especially during grading and internship planning.

Tips for those who want to become teachers in clothing and textile professions

To succeed as a teacher in clothing and textile professions, it is beneficial to combine strong pedagogical skills with solid industry expertise in textiles and fashion. Being attentive and able to adapt teaching to different students' needs requires patience and engagement. Creativity is a major asset, as is the ability to inspire and motivate others. Staying updated on new techniques and trends in the industry is crucial for creating relevant and inspiring lessons. Flexibility and collaboration skills facilitate interaction with colleagues and industry contacts. Finally, having a structured approach to planning and documentation is valuable for effective work management.

Key facts about teachers in clothing and textile professions

• Education level: Vocational teacher degree, often supplemented by industry experience
• Work environment: School, workshop, sewing studio
• Demand: Large opportunities for employment nationwide
• Available jobs: 434 positions within the profession (May 2024)
• Special skills: Textiles, sewing, fashion, pedagogy

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a teacher in clothing and textile professions, there may be opportunities to advance to supervisory roles such as program manager, training coordinator, or mentor for new colleagues. Some choose to specialize further within specific textile fields or pursue additional training, for example, as a special education teacher. The prognosis from the Employment Service indicates that job opportunities remain strong, and demand is expected to stay stable over the next five years. At the same time, challenges in recruiting qualified teachers persist, which can benefit those combining industry experience with pedagogical training. The industry's move toward sustainability and technological innovation makes ongoing skills development important for long-term career growth.

Frequently asked questions about teachers in clothing and textile professions

• What does a teacher in clothing and textile professions earn?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, but it varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• How does one become a teacher in clothing and textile professions?
  - It requires industry experience in textiles/mode and a university-based vocational teacher degree.
• Are there salary differences based on gender?
  - Women earn on average 99 % of what men do in the profession.
• What is the job market like?
  - There are great opportunities for employment, with 434 available positions reported in May 2024.
• What benefits are common?
  - Occupational pension, wellness grants, skills development, and holiday pay are common benefits.
• What education is required?
  - A combination of industry experience and a university-based vocational teacher degree is required.
• How can one develop in the profession?
  - Opportunities for specialization, leadership roles, and further education in special education or leadership are available.