Teacher, special

What does a special education teacher do? – Tasks and work environment

A special education teacher works to support students who need special assistance in school. Tasks include adapting teaching to each student's individual needs, developing pedagogical strategies, and working closely with other teachers, student health services, and parents. It is common for a special education teacher to conduct investigations, create action plans, and follow up on students' development. The work environment is often school-based and can vary between elementary, secondary, and special education groups. The role requires good communication skills, high flexibility, and a strong commitment to each student's learning and well-being.

Salary development over time

Special education teachers have experienced steady salary increases in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, increasing to 44 400 SEK in 2023 and further to 45 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% over three years. The salary development is mainly linked to the increased demand for specialized skills in schools and investments in student health and inclusive education. Growing complex student needs and a greater focus on special support have made the profession more attractive, which is also reflected in salaries. The trend indicates that salaries for special education teachers have strengthened somewhat faster than for some other teaching categories, highlighting the importance of the profession for school development.

Special education teacher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, public sector, upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month (female, public sector, research education)
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK/hour
• Women: 46 000 SEK/month
• Men: 45 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 101% of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur between urban and rural areas and between different employers

Education and qualifications

To work as a special education teacher, a teaching degree with additional training in special education is required. The educational path usually involves a basic teaching qualification followed by a master's level special teacher or special pedagogy qualification. Practical experience in school settings is often a requirement, along with strong collaboration skills and the ability to analyze students' needs. Many employers also value ongoing professional development in special pedagogical methods.

• Teaching license: Basic teaching qualification (3–5 years) required
• Special teacher or special pedagogy degree: Additional training (1–1.5 years, advanced level)
• Practical experience: Work-based training and often experience from school environments
• Further training: Courses in neuropsychiatry, language disorders, or similar are advantageous
• Prerequisites: Teaching license and work experience in schools

Common benefits and compensations

Special education teachers are generally offered collective agreement-based occupational pension, holiday pay, and wellness allowances. Many employers also provide opportunities for professional development and supervision, and sometimes reduced working hours or additional vacation days. Sick insurance and other insurances through the employer are also common.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a special education teacher is considered relatively balanced nationwide, with moderate job opportunities. However, regional variations exist where some schools and regions have more difficulty recruiting qualified special educators. One of the biggest challenges is working with students with highly diverse needs, requiring both solid subject knowledge and strong social skills. The profession demands good teamwork and stress management, as workload can be high at times. Staying updated on research and new pedagogical methods is also a challenge in the role.

Tips for those who want to become a special education teacher

To succeed as a special education teacher, it is helpful to be attentive and empathetic, as the work often involves recognizing and understanding each student's unique needs. Being solution-oriented is a valuable asset, especially when adapting teaching and finding creative ways to facilitate learning. Precision and analytical skills are necessary for investigating and documenting students' development accurately. Good teamwork skills are also important, as the role involves close collaboration with colleagues, student health services, and parents. Flexibility and patience help in dealing with challenging situations and changing tasks. Continuing education and staying informed about new research in special education strengthen your professional role. Finally, a genuine commitment to the development of children and youth is highly valuable.

Key facts about Special Education Teachers

• Education level: Teaching license + additional special education training (total 4–6 years)
• Work environment: School, often in smaller groups or individual support
• Demand: Moderate, approximately 434 vacant positions nationwide
• Gender distribution: Women have slightly higher average salaries than men
• Career opportunities: Good prospects for further education and specialization

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a special education teacher, there are good opportunities to take on more responsibility within the student health team or to further qualify as a special pedagogue. Some choose to become mentors for other educators or work on development issues and school leadership. According to the Employment Service, job opportunities in the profession are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over five years. There is a relatively balanced supply and demand, with regional variations. The labor market is also influenced by schools' investments in inclusion and special support, which can open additional career paths for those wishing to specialize further.

Frequently asked questions about Special Education Teachers

• What does a special education teacher earn?
  - A special education teacher has an average salary of 45 900 SEK per month.
• What is required to become a special education teacher?
  - A teaching license and additional training in special education or special pedagogy are required.
• Are there differences between men's and women's salaries?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for special educators?
  - Opportunities are moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the duties of a special education teacher?
  - Tasks include providing special support, investigating students' needs, and adapting teaching methods.
• What is the highest and lowest salary for a special education teacher?
  - The highest salary is 50,700 SEK and the lowest is 34,600 SEK per month.
• What development opportunities are available within the profession?
  - Opportunities include further education, mentoring roles, and leadership positions within schools.