Teacher, home economics, high school

What does a home economics teacher in upper secondary school do? – Tasks and work environment

A home economics teacher in upper secondary school is responsible for teaching students subjects related to household economics, nutrition, cooking, consumer studies, and sustainable living. The tasks include planning and conducting lessons, assessing student performance, and supervising practical activities in kitchens and classrooms. In addition to teaching, participation in team development, curriculum work, and contact with guardians are common. The work environment varies between theory classrooms, specially equipped kitchens, and digital platforms for teaching and documentation. Safety and hygiene are important aspects of daily work.

Salary development over time

The salary for a home economics teacher in upper secondary school has shown steady growth over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK per month, increasing to 41 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 42 700 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.5% during the period. Factors driving salary development include teacher shortages in certain subjects and investments in the education sector, as well as experience, further education, and employer type influencing salary levels. The trend indicates continued positive development, with demand for qualified teachers with subject expertise and pedagogical skills supporting salary levels.

Home economics teachers in upper secondary school – 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, public sector, doctoral degree)
• Hourly wage: 257 SEK
• Gender differences: Women and men have essentially equal salaries (women 42 700 SEK, men 42 600 SEK)
• Regional differences: Small variations, but metropolitan regions tend to offer slightly higher salaries

Education and qualifications

To work as a home economics teacher in upper secondary school, a teaching degree with subject specialization in home and consumer studies is required. The education combines pedagogy, subject studies, and practical training. Formal qualifications are often supplemented with continuing education in pedagogy, nutrition, and sustainable development. Admission requirements and regulations vary depending on university and program.

• Teaching degree with subject specialization: 4–5 years at university or college
• Qualification courses: Home and consumer studies, pedagogy, didactics
• Practical training (VFU): Included as a mandatory part of the program
• Prerequisites: Basic university eligibility and specific subject requirements
• Additional qualifications: Opportunities for already qualified teachers to acquire subject competence

Common benefits and compensations

Home economics teachers in upper secondary school are often covered by collective agreements, which include benefits such as occupational pension, sick pay, holiday pay, and wellness contributions. Opportunities for professional development, work clothing, and subsidized lunches may also be available, depending on employer and region.

Competition and challenges

The job market for home economics teachers in upper secondary school is characterized by balance, with moderate opportunities nationwide. Challenges may arise in recruiting in smaller towns or for those without full subject certification. The profession requires managing both practical and theoretical aspects and creating a safe and inspiring learning environment. Changes in school policies, resource availability, and workload can influence daily work. However, teacher shortages in certain subjects have increased demand for competent home economics teachers.

Tips for aspiring teachers in home economics in upper secondary school

To succeed as a home economics teacher, it is beneficial to combine pedagogical skills with a genuine interest in food, health, and sustainability. Being structured facilitates lesson planning and managing practical activities in the kitchen. Flexibility is important to adapt teaching to different student groups and conditions. Good communication skills help to engage students from diverse backgrounds. Engagement and curiosity about new teaching methods contribute to ongoing development of oneself and the teaching. Collaboration with colleagues and a solution-oriented approach are also central to creating a good work environment and meeting school requirements.

Key facts about teachers in home economics in upper secondary school

• Educational level: Teaching degree with subject specialization (4–5 years)
• Work environment: Practical and theoretical, often in specially equipped kitchens and classrooms
• Demand: Moderate, 434 job openings within the profession
• Gender distribution: Equal salaries between women and men
• Typical employment: Full-time position covered by collective agreement

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, there are opportunities to take on expanded responsibilities, such as senior teacher, team leader, or subject developer. Some choose to further their education in pedagogy, didactics, or leadership to work as school leaders or development pedagogues. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that job opportunities are moderate, with a recruitment situation characterized by balance and unchanged demand over five years. Specialization in sustainable development, consumer studies, or digital teaching methods can further strengthen career prospects. Regional variations exist, with larger cities often offering more positions and somewhat higher salaries.

Frequently asked questions about teachers in home economics in upper secondary school

• What is the salary of a home economics teacher in upper secondary school?
  - The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with minor differences between genders.
• How has the salary development for home economics teachers been?
  - Salaries have increased from 40100 SEK (2022) to 42 700 SEK (2024), which is approximately 6.5% over three years.
• What education is required to become a home economics teacher in upper secondary school?
  - A teaching degree with subject specialization in home and consumer studies involving 4–5 years of university studies including practical training.
• Are there salary differences depending on employer or education level?
  - Yes, the highest salary of 48,400 SEK is with a woman holding a doctoral degree in the public sector, while the lowest of 32,400 SEK is for a woman with pre-secondary education employed privately.
• What is the job market like for home economics teachers?
  - Opportunities are moderate, with about 434 job openings nationally, and the recruitment situation is balanced.
• What personal qualities are important for the profession?
  - Pedagogical ability, engagement, structure, and good communication are central qualities for success.
• How much is the hourly wage for a part-time employed teacher?
  - The hourly wage is 257 SEK for a part-time home economics teacher in upper secondary school.