What does a craft teacher in upper secondary school do? – Tasks and work environment
A craft teacher in upper secondary school is responsible for teaching students woodworking and metalworking, textiles, or combined craft subjects. The work involves planning and conducting lessons, guiding students in both theoretical and practical aspects, and creating a safe and inspiring learning environment in the craft room. The craft teacher assesses students’ work, provides feedback, and documents their development. The profession requires good knowledge of various materials and techniques, while safety considerations in the work environment are central, especially when using machines and tools. The role also includes collaborating with colleagues and ongoing professional development to stay updated with new teaching methods and subject advancements.
Salary development over time
The salary for a craft teacher in upper secondary school has steadily increased over recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 40100 SEK per month, rising to 41 400 SEK in 2023. For 2024, the average salary has increased further to 42 700 SEK, representing a growth of approximately 6.5% over the three-year period. This salary trend reflects continued demand for qualified teachers in practical and aesthetic subjects, as well as an increased focus on elevating the status and attractiveness of the teaching profession. Salary increases may also be linked to general investments in teacher salaries and the need to retain competent teachers in upper secondary schools.
Craft teacher, upper secondary school salary – comprehensive overview
- Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
- Lowest salary: 32,400 SEK/month (female, private sector employee, pre-secondary education)
- Highest salary: 48,400 SEK/month (female, public sector, research degree)
- Hourly wage: 257 SEK/hour
- Women/men: Women 42 700 SEK, men 42 600 SEK – no gender salary differences
Education and qualifications
To work as a craft teacher in upper secondary school, a teacher’s degree with a specialization in craft subjects and a teaching license are required, including both subject knowledge and pedagogical skills. The education includes theoretical studies, practical components, and internships at schools. Formal qualifications and accreditation are mandatory for employment within the public sector. Further training, certifications, or specializations in woodworking or textiles can strengthen competitiveness in the job market.
- Teacher’s degree with craft specialization: 4–5 years (subject teacher degree)
- Teaching license: Required for permanent employment
- VFU (practical teacher training): Included in the education
- Eligibility requirements: Basic eligibility for university studies
- Additional courses: Possible for those wanting to broaden their subject competence
Many craft teachers testify that the profession offers a unique opportunity to combine craftsmanship with pedagogy, and that the creative process with students often leads to unexpected and inspiring results.
Common benefits and compensations
In addition to the base salary, benefits such as pension schemes, wellness allowances, and opportunities for professional development are often offered. Many employers also provide subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and insurance coverage. Compensation for unsocial hours and work clothing may apply depending on the employer and collective agreements.
Competition and challenges
The job market for craft teachers in upper secondary schools is balanced, with 434 job openings within the profession and moderate employment opportunities nationwide. Challenges may include limited positions in smaller towns and requirements for broad subject expertise. Craft teachers also need to handle high safety standards in craft rooms and adapt teaching to students with varying backgrounds and interests. The profession requires flexibility, patience, and a desire to work with young people in a creative environment.
Tips for aspiring craft teachers in upper secondary school
To succeed as a craft teacher, it’s good to combine a genuine interest in craftsmanship with pedagogical skills. Patience and attentiveness are important, as students’ backgrounds and interests can vary greatly. Creativity and solution-oriented thinking help when adapting teaching to different groups and projects. A structured approach facilitates planning, assessment, and documentation of students’ progress. Finally, good communication skills and the ability to collaborate with colleagues are valuable, as many projects and activities are carried out in teams.
Key facts about craft teachers in upper secondary school
- Average salary: 42 700 SEK/month
- Salary range: 32,400–48,400 SEK/month
- Gender differences: None, women and men earn equally
- Education requirements: Teacher’s degree with craft specialization and license
- Job openings: 434 within the profession
Career paths and future prospects
After some years of experience as a craft teacher in upper secondary school, there are opportunities to take on expanded responsibilities, such as team leader, senior teacher, or development coordinator within aesthetic subjects. Some choose to further their education to become special educators or subject developers, while others engage in school development projects or teacher training. According to the Employment Service’s forecast, the job market is expected to remain balanced, with moderate opportunities over the next five years and unchanged demand at the national level. Those combining subject expertise with a commitment to school development have good prospects for a long and rewarding career in education.
Frequently asked questions about craft teachers in upper secondary school
- What is the salary of a craft teacher in upper secondary school?
- The average salary is 42 700 SEK per month, with a range between 32,400 and 48,400 SEK.
- Are there salary differences between men and women?
- No, women and men earn approximately the same in the profession.
- What education is required to become a craft teacher in upper secondary school?
- A teacher’s degree with a craft specialization and a teaching license are required.
- What does the job market look like for craft teachers?
- Opportunities are moderate, and the job market is balanced nationwide.
- What benefits are common for craft teachers?
- Pension schemes, wellness allowances, professional development, and sometimes extra vacation days are often provided.
- How high can the salary for a craft teacher go?
- The highest reported salary is 48,400 SEK per month, for a woman in the public sector with a research degree.
- How many job openings are there in the profession?
- There are 434 available positions according to the latest data.
