Special education teachers

What does a Special Education Teacher do? – tasks and work environment

A Special Education Teacher works to teach and support students with intellectual disabilities or other special needs, primarily within primary and secondary special education. The duties include planning, implementing, and evaluating tailored teaching based on each student's conditions. Special Education Teachers often collaborate with special educators, student health teams, and guardians to create a safe and developmental learning environment. The work is usually conducted in smaller groups and requires great pedagogical flexibility and the ability to meet each student on an individual level.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, Special Education Teachers have experienced steady and positive salary growth. 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 about 6.8% over the period, with a slightly stronger increase in the most recent year. The development can partly be explained by an increased focus on competence in special education, higher demand for qualified teachers in special schools, and efforts to raise teacher salaries nationally. Gender salary differences are minimal, with women earning slightly more on average than men, which is uncommon in the teaching profession.

Special Education Teacher salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month (male, state sector, 3-year upper secondary education)
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month (female, public sector, research degree)
• Hourly wage: 276 SEK
• Women: 46 000 SEK/month
• Men: 45 500 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 101% of what men do

Education and qualifications

To work as a Special Education Teacher, a teacher education with specialization in special education is required, often supplemented with further training in special pedagogy. The basic education includes both theoretical and practical components, with practical training in schools with special education services being a central part. Qualification requirements and educational pathways are regulated nationally and usually involve university-level studies.

• Special teacher degree: University education, 1–1.5 years after basic teacher degree
• Basic teacher degree: 3–4.5 years depending on specialization and prior education
• Qualification requirements: Teaching certification and often prior experience in pedagogical work
• Special courses: Courses in special education and neuropsychiatric disabilities
• Practical training: Extended practical periods in special education included in the program

Common benefits and compensations

Special Education Teachers are often offered benefits such as wellness allowances, extra vacation days, and opportunities for professional development through courses and conferences. Occupational pensions, clothing allowances, and sometimes extended sick leave are other common benefits, especially within the public sector. Flexible working hours and support from student health teams are also common in many municipalities.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Special Education Teachers is characterized by balance, where supply and demand for qualified teachers are relatively evenly distributed. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast, job opportunities are considered moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession mainly include high documentation requirements, the need for ongoing professional development, and creating individualized learning environments for students with diverse needs. Stress levels can be high during certain periods, especially in connection with resource shortages or changes in student groups.

Tips for aspiring Special Education Teachers

To succeed as a Special Education Teacher, it’s good to combine patience with strong listening skills and teamwork. Developing communication skills facilitates contact with students and colleagues, while empathy and creativity help tailor teaching to each individual's needs. Being organized and solution-oriented is crucial for handling documentation and planning, while flexibility is needed to quickly adapt to changing conditions. Continuously seeking new knowledge and participating in further training enhances both professional growth and job satisfaction. Engagement and a positive attitude are qualities often appreciated by students and colleagues alike.

Key facts about Special Education Teachers

• Salary range: 34,600–50,700 SEK/month
• Education level: University education with a special education teacher degree
• Work environment: Smaller student groups and interdisciplinary teams
• Gender distribution: Women have slightly higher average salaries than men
• Demand: Moderate opportunities, 434 available jobs

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a Special Education Teacher, there are opportunities for specialization in special education, supervisory roles, or leadership positions such as senior teacher. Some choose to further their education to become a special pedagogue or take responsibility for development work within student health. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service’s forecast for the profession of special teachers and special pedagogues, the labor market is expected to be balanced, with moderate job opportunities and unchanged demand over the next five years. The number of available jobs nationwide is 434, reflecting a stable need in both municipal and independent schools.

Common questions about Special Education Teachers

• What does a Special Education Teacher earn per month?
  - The average salary for a Special Education Teacher is 45 900 SEK per month.
• What are the salary differences between women and men?
  - Women earn on average 46 000 SEK while men earn 45 500 SEK, meaning women have a slightly higher average salary.
• What education is required to become a Special Education Teacher?
  - Higher education with a special education teacher degree and teaching certification are standard requirements.
• Are there good job opportunities?
  - Yes, job opportunities are considered moderate with 434 available positions nationwide.
• How has the salary development looked over time?
  - Salaries have increased from 43,000 SEK in 2022 to 45 900 SEK in 2024, representing approximately a 6.8% increase.
• What are the highest and lowest salaries for a Special Education Teacher?
  - The highest salary is 50,700 SEK and the lowest is 34,600 SEK per month.
• What personal qualities are important in this profession?
  - Important qualities include patience, empathy, flexibility, and good teamwork skills.