School Chancellor

What does a school clerk do? – Tasks and work environment

A school clerk primarily works with administrative and service-oriented tasks within the school environment. Responsibilities include managing student registers, scheduling, document handling, and supporting school management, teachers, and students. Daily contact with students, guardians, and staff is common, and the role requires good communication skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. The work environment is mostly office-based, but work in school premises occurs, especially during events or semester starts. The pace can be high, particularly during periods with many administrative deadlines.

Salary development over time

The salary for a school clerk has developed steadily over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 32,300 SEK per month, which increased to 33 500 SEK in 2023. During 2024, the average salary has risen further to 34 500 SEK, corresponding to an increase of approximately 7% over the period. This positive salary trend can largely be explained by an increased focus on the importance of administration within schools and a shortage of experienced candidates. Although the profession is within a relatively stable and traditional occupational group, a cautious but steady trend toward higher compensation, especially for those with longer experience and post-secondary education, is noticeable.

School clerk salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 34 500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 30,100 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 37,000 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 207 SEK
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of men's salaries
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on region and employer

Education and qualifications

To work as a school clerk, a high school diploma with an administrative or economic focus is usually required, although post-secondary studies are meritorious and can positively influence salary. Practical experience from school administration or similar activities is often desirable. Some employers also require specific IT skills and good language skills. Success in the role depends on accuracy, service orientation, and the ability to handle confidential information.

• High school diploma: Administration or economics, 3 years
• Post-secondary studies: YH-education or university studies, 1–3 years
• Internship: Experience from school environment or similar administration is advantageous
• IT skills: Familiarity with administrative systems and Office programs are often required
• Language skills: Proficiency in Swedish and often English

Common benefits and compensations

For a school clerk, benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, subsidized lunch, and opportunities for professional development through courses and internal training are common. Flexitime and holiday benefits are also typical, especially within the municipal sector.

Competitions and challenges

Competition for positions as a school clerk is considered balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified applicants nationwide. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for school assistants, which includes school clerks, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession often involve managing many tasks simultaneously, changing administrative routines, and digitalization of work processes. Success requires the ability to quickly adapt to new systems and methods, and to maintain high accuracy despite increasing workload.

Tips for those who want to become a school clerk

To succeed as a school clerk, it is good to combine structure with service-mindedness in daily work. Being detail-oriented facilitates managing student registers and administrative tasks, while flexibility makes it easier to adapt to the school's sometimes fast pace. A communicative and attentive personality helps build good relationships with students and colleagues, which is central to the role. For those looking to develop within the profession, actively seeking further education and staying updated on new administrative systems is recommended. Showing initiative and willingness to take responsibility for new projects is appreciated by employers. Finally, patience and the ability to stay calm under pressure are important, as workload can vary significantly during the year.

Key facts about school clerks

• Salary range: 30,100–37,000 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school diploma, preferably supplemented with post-secondary education
• Work environment: Office-based, often in a school setting with much social contact
• Demand: 758 available jobs nationwide, with medium opportunities according to the Swedish Public Employment Service
• Gender distribution: Women earn 99% of men's salaries

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a school clerk, there are opportunities to advance to more qualified administrative roles, such as administrative coordinator or school administrator with increased responsibilities. Some choose to specialize in personnel administration, student health, or finance, especially if post-secondary education is part of their background. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast for school assistants, the job market is stable with medium opportunities and unchanged demand over five years. Digitalization and increased administrative requirements mean that skills in IT and project management are becoming increasingly important for those wishing to advance in the field.

Frequently asked questions about school clerks

• What is the average salary of a school clerk?
  - The average salary is 34 500 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a school clerk?
  - A high school diploma with an administrative focus is usually sufficient, but post-secondary studies are advantageous.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn approximately 99% of what men do in the profession.
• What does the job market look like for school clerks?
  - The job market is stable with medium opportunities and about 758 available jobs nationwide.
• What personal qualities are important for a school clerk?
  - Attention to detail, service-mindedness, flexibility, and good communication skills are central qualities.
• Is there potential for career development?
  - Yes, with experience and further education, one can advance to more qualified administrative roles.
• How much has the salary increased in recent years?
  - The salary has increased by approximately 7% over the past three years.