Teacher, the food program

What does a teacher within the Food Program do? – Tasks and work environment

A teacher within the Food Program instructs high school students in subjects related to food production, nutrition, hygiene, and food processing. Responsibilities include planning and delivering lessons, supervising practical activities in kitchens or food labs, and assessing students' performance. Collaboration with industry companies often takes place to give students insight into professional life and opportunities for internships. The work environment features a mix of classroom, kitchen, and sometimes field visits. High demands are placed on pedagogical skills, subject knowledge, and the ability to create a safe and fostering learning environment.

Salary development over time

Teachers within the Food Program have experienced a stable salary development over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 39,100 SEK per month, which increased to 40 200 SEK in 2023 and further to 41 600 SEK in 2024. The total increase over three years amounts to approximately 6.4%, slightly higher than the average salary growth for teachers overall during the same period. The salary increase can partly be explained by increased demand for vocational teachers and a greater focus on quality in vocational education. Despite this positive trend, differences remain between regions and employers, with private sector employees and those with higher education often earning higher salaries than their municipal sector counterparts.

Teacher salary – comprehensive 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: 250 SEK/hour (average, part-time)
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (women 41 300 SEK, men 41 800 SEK)
• Regional differences: Salaries can vary between regions and employers, with private sector and urban teachers often earning more.

Education and qualifications

To work as a teacher within the Food Program, a vocational teacher’s degree focusing on food is usually required, combining pedagogical studies with subject knowledge. Many also have several years of experience in the food industry before starting teacher training. Some schools may require special certifications or further education in areas like food hygiene or nutrition.

• Vocational teacher’s degree: 3–4.5 years at university/college
• Work experience: Often several years in the food industry required
• Internship: Part of the training through work-based learning (VFU)
• Certifications: For example, training in food hygiene and safety
• Prerequisites: Upper secondary diploma and often work experience

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to the base salary, benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes subsidized lunches are often offered. Teachers in the municipal sector are usually covered by collective agreements regulating vacation, sick pay, and other compensations. Some employers also support further training or mentorship programs.

Competition and challenges

The demand for teachers within the Food Program is considered high, but recruitment difficulties persist within the profession. Many schools struggle to find qualified teachers with the right combination of pedagogical training and industry experience. Workload can be uneven, especially during internship periods or when new curricula are introduced. Flexibility and adaptability are required to meet different students’ needs and stay updated on industry developments. At the same time, a high proportion of part-time work and some leaving the profession for other roles within the food sector or education are reported.

Tips for those aspiring to become teachers within the Food Program

To succeed as a teacher within the Food Program, it’s beneficial to combine solid subject knowledge with pedagogical skills and an interest in young people's development. Patience and the ability to adapt teaching to different students’ needs are invaluable. Being organized facilitates planning and implementation of both theory and practical sessions, while good collaboration skills are important for building relationships with colleagues and industry contacts. Gaining practical experience in the food industry, supplementing with pedagogical training, and continuously updating oneself on industry news are recommended to inspire and motivate students convincingly.

Key facts about teachers within the Food Program

• Education level: Vocational teacher’s degree (3–4.5 years) and industry experience
• Work environment: School, kitchen environment, and practical exercises
• Demand: Great opportunities for employment, especially for qualified teachers
• Work form: Full-time/part-time, often with holiday employment
• Special skills: Food hygiene, nutrition, and pedagogy

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a teacher within the Food Program, opportunities exist to develop into a senior teacher, mentor, or team leader. Some choose to further their education in pedagogy or leadership to move into school management. Others advance to roles within adult education, curriculum planning, or advisory positions in the food sector. According to the Swedish Employment Agency’s forecast, future prospects are good, with ample opportunities for employment and unchanged demand over the next five years within the profession of vocational subject teachers. Despite recruitment challenges, many vacancies exist – currently, 434 job openings highlight the need for more qualified teachers.

Common questions about teachers within the Food Program

• What is the salary of a teacher within the Food Program?
  - The average salary is 41 600 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education level, and employer.
• What education is required to become a teacher within the Food Program?
  - Usually, a vocational teacher’s degree focusing on food and several years of industry experience are required.
• What is the job market like for teachers within the Food Program?
  - Opportunities for employment are considered good, but there is a shortage of qualified teachers.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 99% of what men do within the profession.
• In which work environments does a teacher within the Food Program work?
  - Teaching occurs in classrooms, practical kitchens, and sometimes during field visits.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for the profession?
  - The highest salary is 47,600 SEK (male, private sector, research education), and the lowest is 34,400 SEK (female, municipal sector, upper secondary education).
• What personal qualities are important in the profession?
  - Pedagogical skills, teamwork, and patience are especially important for success.