Resource teacher, student assistant school

What does a resource teacher or student assistant do in a school? – Tasks and work environment

A resource teacher or student assistant in a school is tasked with supporting students with special needs, both inside and outside the classroom. The work involves collaborating with teachers and other school staff to adapt teaching and create a safe, inclusive environment for all students. Tasks can vary but often include providing extra support in specific subjects, mentoring individual students or small groups, and contributing to students' social development. The role demands flexibility, patience, and the ability to quickly adapt to different situations. The work environment is characterized by close contact with students and colleagues, and it often involves both practical and pedagogical work during a school day.

Salary development over time

The profession of resource teachers and student assistants has experienced steady salary growth in recent years. The average salary was 26,600 SEK in 2022, increased to 27 500 SEK in 2023, and has now reached 28 300 SEK in 2024. This corresponds to a salary increase of approximately 6.4% over three years. The development is mainly driven by an increased focus on inclusion in schools, which has raised demand for competent assistants, along with union negotiations and inflation adjustments. Salaries have increased slightly more for women than for men, reflected in current statistics. Despite moderate salary growth, the profession remains among the lower-paid within the educational sector, partly because educational requirements are often relatively low and competition for jobs is high.

Resource teacher, student assistant in school salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 28 300 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,200 SEK/month (female), 26,900 SEK/month (male)
• Highest salary: 33,000 SEK/month (female), 33,100 SEK/month (male)
• Hourly wage (average): 170 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 101% of what men do (28 400 SEK/month vs 28 200 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary variations may occur depending on municipality and region, with somewhat higher wages in larger cities and regions where demand is higher.

Education and qualifications

To work as a resource teacher or student assistant in a school, a high school diploma is often required, preferably with a pedagogical focus, but formal requirements vary between employers. Practical experience working with children and youth is highly meritorious, as are courses in special education or the Child and Recreation Program. Additional training can increase chances of employment and higher salary, especially within the municipal sector. Employers value personal suitability and teamwork skills.

• High school diploma: Child and Recreation Program (3 years) is common
• Courses in special education: Advanced training increases employability
• Internship or trainee: Practical experience from school or leisure centers is highly valued
• Prerequisites: Often high school competence, sometimes experience working with children
• Further education: Short post-secondary courses can provide advantages in salary negotiations

Common benefits and compensations

Resource teachers and student assistants in schools are often covered by collective agreements that provide access to occupational pension, insurance, and holiday pay. Other common benefits include wellness allowances, opportunities for professional development, and sometimes subsidized lunches. In some municipalities, extra compensation may be provided for working with particularly demanding student groups or during unsocial hours.

Competition and challenges

The labor market for resource teachers and student assistants in schools is characterized by a surplus of labor and limited opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast. However, regional variations exist, and there are occasional increased demands in larger cities and areas with many schools. A challenge in the profession is that tasks can be physically and mentally demanding, especially since they often involve working with students with significant support needs. Because educational requirements are relatively low, competition for positions is high and salary development limited. At the same time, the role demands a high level of personal maturity and stress management skills.

Tips for those who want to become a resource teacher or student assistant in a school

To succeed as a resource teacher or student assistant, patience and empathy are valuable qualities that help when working with students with diverse needs. Being flexible makes it easier when tasks and groups change quickly, and good teamwork skills are essential for functioning well with teachers and other school staff. An interest in children's development and learning provides energy in daily work and facilitates building positive relationships with students. Investing in short courses in special education or conflict management can improve employability and better prepare you to handle difficult situations. It is also beneficial to gain experience through internships or volunteering, which provides valuable references. Finally, the ability to communicate clearly and attentively is central to supporting students effectively.

Key facts about resource teachers and student assistants in schools

• Salary range: 26,200–33,100 SEK/month depending on experience and education
• Educational level: High school diploma often sufficient, further education advantageous
• Work environment: School setting with close student contact and varied tasks
• Demand: 434 available jobs nationally, but generally a surplus of labor
• Gender distribution: Women earn slightly more on average than men within the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession as a resource teacher or student assistant, there are opportunities to advance to more responsible roles, such as coordinator, special education assistant, or further training as a preschool teacher, leisure pedagogue, or teacher. Those who pursue further studies in special education or pedagogy can often advance within the school organization. The Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast indicates a surplus of labor and limited opportunities for work, with demand expected to remain unchanged over five years. Nevertheless, regional differences and occasional increased demand for substitutes and specialists in specific school forms exist.

Common questions about resource teachers and student assistants in schools

• What is the salary of a resource teacher or student assistant in a school?
  - The average salary is 28 300 SEK per month, with variations depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What education is required to become a resource teacher or student assistant?
  - Usually, a high school diploma is required, preferably from the Child and Recreation Program, along with experience working with children.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, women earn on average 101% of what men do within the profession.
• What is the job market like?
  - There is a surplus of labor nationwide, but there are still 434 available jobs within the profession.
• What opportunities are there for further education?
  - It is possible to pursue further training in special education or continue to become a teacher or preschool teacher.
• What is the work environment like for resource teachers and student assistants?
  - The work environment is social and varied, often with close contact with students and colleagues in a school setting.