Teacher, dance, theater, drama, elementary school

What does a teacher in dance, theater, and drama in primary school do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher specializing in dance, theater, and drama in primary school works to inspire and develop students' creativity through performing arts and movement. Tasks include planning and delivering lessons in aesthetic subjects, leading projects and performances, and adapting pedagogy to different age groups and individual needs. The role often involves collaboration with colleagues in other subjects, as well as coaching students for performances or assessing their achievements based on artistic and pedagogical criteria. The work environment is characterized by a dynamic and creative atmosphere but can also present challenges related to resources and scheduling.

Salary development over time

Teachers in dance, theater, and drama in primary school have experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 37,700 SEK, rising in 2023 to 39 000 SEK and reaching 40 200 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.6% over three years. Salary development has been influenced by both general collective agreements in the public sector and an increased awareness of the importance of aesthetic subjects in school education. Despite the expected decline in demand over the long term, salaries have strengthened as skills and educational requirements have increased within the profession. Differences also exist depending on education level and sector, with higher education and employment in the public sector tending to offer better terms.

Teacher, dance, theater, drama, primary school salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 40 200 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,500 SEK/month (female, private sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 42,900 SEK/month (male, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 242 SEK
• Women earn: 40 400 SEK/month (102 % of men's salary)
• Men earn: 39 700 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher in dance, theater, and drama in primary school, a teaching degree focused on aesthetic subjects is required, often supplemented with subject studies in performing arts and pedagogy. The education includes both theoretical and practical components, with internships in schools being an important part to gain insight into the profession. It is also common for applicants to have experience from artistic practice or participation in further training courses to strengthen their competence.

• Teaching degree with specialization in dance, theater, drama (3.5–5 years)
• Subject studies in performing arts at college/university
• VFU (practical training) – internships in school settings
• Qualification requirements: basic university eligibility + specific subject requirements
• Further training through courses in pedagogy or artistic work

Common benefits and allowances

Teachers specializing in dance, theater, and drama in primary school are often offered benefits such as holiday pay, occupational pension, wellness allowance, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. In some cases, work clothing or equipment for performances may be included, as well as flexible working hours and extra compensation for evening and weekend work during performances or projects.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as teachers in dance, theater, and drama in primary schools is moderate according to the National Employment Agency's forecast. Over the next five years, demand for these teachers is expected to decrease, which could lead to increased competition for available positions. Challenges in the profession often involve limited resources for aesthetic subjects, varying student populations, and sometimes reduced schedule space. Flexibility and the ability to advocate for the importance of the subject to school management are therefore valuable. At the same time, there are opportunities for those who are engaged and can demonstrate the value of the subject for student development, especially through interdisciplinary collaborations and projects.

Tips for those who want to become a teacher in dance, theater, and drama in primary school

To succeed as a teacher in dance, theater, and drama in primary school, it is important to combine pedagogical skills with artistic creativity and strong collaboration abilities. Patience is helpful when working with different student groups, while good organizational skills facilitate planning multiple projects and performances simultaneously. Being communicative and attentive to both students and colleagues is crucial for creating an inclusive and inspiring learning environment. Engagement in school cultural activities and a willingness to continue professional development in new pedagogical methods or artistic expressions provide good opportunities for growth. Flexibility and adaptability in teaching are appreciated, as is a positive and solution-oriented attitude when facing challenges.

Key facts about Teachers, dance, theater, drama, primary school

• Education level: Teaching degree with aesthetic specialization (3.5–5 years)
• Work environment: Dynamic school setting with creative and project-based work
• Gender distribution: Women have slightly higher average salaries than men
• Demand: Medium, with a forecast of decreasing needs in the coming five years
• Number of available jobs: 434 (within the primary school teacher group)

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, teachers in dance, theater, and drama in primary school can advance to leadership roles, such as team leader, development coordinator for aesthetic subjects, or supervisor for student teachers. There are also opportunities to work on school development projects or further qualify as special educators or principals. According to the National Employment Agency's forecast, job opportunities in the primary school teacher group are moderate, but demand is expected to decline somewhat over five years, which may increase competition for positions. Despite this, there remains a need for committed and competent teachers with an aesthetic profile, especially in schools that invest in culture and creative activities.

Common questions about Teachers, dance, theater, drama, primary school

• What does a Teacher, dance, theater, drama, primary school earn?
  - The average salary is 40 200 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a teacher in dance, theater, and drama?
  - A teaching degree with a focus on aesthetic subjects, often 3.5–5 years at college or university.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women have a slightly higher average salary than men (40 400 SEK compared to 39 700 SEK).
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand is currently medium but is expected to decrease over the next five years.
• What are the most common benefits?
  - Holiday pay, occupational pension, wellness allowance, and professional development are common benefits.
• How competitive are the job opportunities?
  - The competition is moderate and expected to increase slightly in the future.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries in the profession?
  - The highest salary is 42,900 SEK (male, public sector, research education), the lowest is 26,500 SEK (female, private sector, upper secondary education).