School nurse

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

A school nurse is responsible for promoting students' health and well-being within the school environment. Daily tasks include health talks, vaccinations, basic healthcare, and advising students on lifestyle and mental health. School nurses work closely with school management, teachers, and sometimes social services, which requires both medical expertise and the ability to handle sensitive situations. The work environment is often varied, with meetings with students and administrative tasks alternating, and workload can be high during large vaccination campaigns or crisis situations.

Salary development over time

The salary for school nurses has shown a clear upward trend in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 41,900 SEK, which increased to 43 300 SEK in 2023 and further to 44 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 7.2% over three years. The rise can largely be explained by increased demand for school health services, higher qualification requirements, and changes in labor market conditions. Additional factors influencing salary development include the general shortage of specialist nurses and a greater focus on student health in schools. This trend indicates that the profession is becoming increasingly valued, especially as schools' need for qualified staff grows.

School nurse salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 44 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 43,500 SEK/month (male, public sector)
• Highest salary: 45,900 SEK/month (female, private sector, postgraduate education)
• Hourly wage: 270 SEK
• Gender differences: Women 44 900 SEK/month (data for men missing for average, but highest for men is 43,600 SEK/month)
• Regional differences: Salary ranges vary depending on employer and region, with clear differences between public and private sectors.

Education and qualifications

To work as a school nurse, a license as a registered nurse is required, along with further education to become a specialist nurse in child and adolescent healthcare or school health. The educational pathway includes both theoretical studies and practical experience, and the profession demands high medical competence as well as the ability to work independently in a school setting.

• Nursing degree: 3 years (basic education)
• Specialist nurse in child and adolescent/school health: 1 year (master's degree)
• Licensure: Swedish nursing license required
• Practical training: Included in both basic and specialist education
• Courses in communication skills and student health: Recommended for increased competence

Common benefits and compensations

School nurses are often offered benefits such as generous vacation policies, wellness allowances, professional development, and sometimes flexible working hours. Access to supervision and opportunities for further training are common, especially in larger municipalities and school organizations. Pension contributions and insurance coverage are usually included in the employment package.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a school nurse is considered balanced, meaning there is neither a surplus nor a shortage in the job market nationally. One of the main challenges is workload, especially during periods with large student groups or increased demands for health interventions. Changes in regulations and increased administrative tasks can also impact daily work. Despite this, many find the profession meaningful and an opportunity to make a difference in young people's lives. Success in the role requires flexibility and the ability to adapt quickly to new situations.

Tips for those wanting to become a school nurse

To succeed as a school nurse, it’s beneficial to combine medical expertise with a genuine interest in children and adolescents’ development. Being attentive and communicative facilitates interactions with students and parents, especially in sensitive situations. Practical experience in pediatric care or student health is valuable, as is the ability to work independently and take responsibility for your tasks. A structured approach helps manage administration and documentation, which are natural parts of the profession. Continually updating knowledge in health matters and participating in further training enhances competence and confidence. Collaboration skills are essential, as contact with school staff and other professionals is central to the work. Finally, patience and engagement are important for building long-term relationships with students.

Key facts about School Nurse

• Education level: Specialist nurse degree (4 years total)
• Work environment: School setting with both independent and team-based work
• Work schedule: Usually daytime, permanent position
• Demand: Moderate job opportunities, 375 vacancies nationwide
• Special skills: Communication techniques and student health

Career paths and future prospects

After 3–5 years as a school nurse, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as head of student health, coordinator for school health services, or trainer in the field. Some choose to specialize further in child and adolescent psychiatry or work on development projects related to student health. The Swedish Employment Service indicates that the job market is balanced, with demand expected to remain stable over the next five years. This provides stable career opportunities and good prospects for those wishing to work long-term in the profession. The number of job openings is relatively high, indicating ongoing demand for qualified school nurses across the country.

Frequently asked questions about School Nurse

• What does a school nurse earn?
  - The average salary for a school nurse is 44 900 SEK per month.
• What education is required to become a school nurse?
  - Licensure as a nurse and further education to become a specialist nurse in school health or child and adolescent healthcare.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Women earn an average of 44 900 SEK; the highest salary for men is 43,600 SEK, but no average data is available for men.
• What are the job prospects for school nurses?
  - Opportunities are moderate and expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What are the duties of a school nurse?
  - The work includes health talks, vaccinations, basic healthcare, and collaboration with school staff on student health.
• What is the hourly wage for school nurses?
  - The hourly wage is 270 SEK for hourly-employed school nurses.
• How many job openings are available for school nurses?
  - There are 375 vacancies nationwide for the profession of school nurses.