Special teacher, primary school

What does a special education teacher in primary school do? – Tasks and work environment

A special education teacher in primary school works to support students who need additional help with learning. Tasks include designing, implementing, and following up on individual education plans in consultation with colleagues, guardians, and student health services. Much of the role involves working both one-on-one with students and collaboratively in the classroom, as well as guiding and supporting other teachers on adapted teaching. The work environment is characterized by close collaboration with other educators and often a flexible approach, as student needs vary over time and between schools.

Salary development over time

Salaries for special education teachers in primary school have shown a clear positive trend over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month and increased to 44 400 SEK in 2023, which corresponds to an increase of about 3.3%. In 2024, the average salary was 45 900 SEK, representing a further increase of approximately 3.4% from the previous year. This salary development reflects both an increased demand for special pedagogical skills and employers’ willingness to attract and retain qualified special educators. The salary increase can also be linked to qualification requirements and the important role special educators play in the school’s compensatory mission. In recent years, higher education levels and experience among special educators have also influenced salary levels, with higher education often leading to higher pay.

Special education teacher, primary school salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 34,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 50,700 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 276 SEK
• Women: 46 000 SEK/month (101% of men’s salary)
• Men: 45 500 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary between regions and school authorities, with larger cities and competitive municipalities often offering slightly higher wages.

Education and qualifications

To work as a special education teacher in primary school, a postgraduate teacher education in special pedagogy is required, which means supplementing a teaching degree with further training in special education. The program includes both theoretical and practical components and provides an in-depth understanding of various functional variations and pedagogical methods. Formal qualification requirements and experience from working in schools are central to gaining employment as a special education teacher.

• Teaching degree: Basic teacher or subject teacher degree (3.5–5.5 years)
• Further education: Special education program (1.5 years at advanced level, 90 ECTS)
• Qualification: Teaching license and at least three years of professional experience
• Practical training: Included in the program and often workplace-based
• Supplementary courses: Opportunities for further training in special education or neuropsychiatric disabilities

Common benefits and compensations

Special education teachers in primary schools are often offered collective agreement benefits such as occupational pension, wellness contributions, professional development, and generous vacation entitlement. It is also common with insurances, training days, and sometimes extra compensation for supervision or mentoring. Employers in the public sector also offer stable employment conditions and predictable working hours.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as a special education teacher in primary school is assessed to be balanced, with moderate job opportunities according to the Employment Service’s forecasts. Nationwide, demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. However, shortages of qualified special educators persist in some regions, which can provide greater opportunities for those with the right qualifications. Challenges in the profession often involve managing a complex student group, collaborating with various professional roles, and staying updated on new methods and legislation. The role requires flexibility and strong prioritization skills.

Tips for those who want to become a special education teacher in primary school

To succeed as a special education teacher, it is good to combine strong pedagogical skills with genuine engagement for each student’s development. Being attentive and communicative facilitates cooperation with students, colleagues, and parents. Being organized and able to plan long-term supports helps in designing and following up on individual support measures. A problem-solving attitude is valuable when teaching needs to be adapted to different needs. Finally, patience and perseverance are advantages, as the work often involves following students' progress over a longer period and handling challenges along the way.

Key facts about Special Education Teachers, primary school

• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Salary range: 34,600–50,700 SEK/month
• Gender difference: Women earn 101% of men’s salaries
• Education level: Advanced postgraduate special education degree
• Job vacancies: 434 advertised positions nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a special education teacher in primary school, there are opportunities for further development within the profession. It is common to take on more responsibility, such as coordinating student health teams or mentoring colleagues. Some choose to further qualify as a special pedagogist, which offers a broader role and the opportunity to work more strategically at school or municipal levels. Forecasts from the Employment Service show that job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged in the coming years. The profession offers stable employment conditions and opportunities for professional development and specialization in areas such as neuropsychiatric disabilities or language and reading development. Within the profession, there are also opportunities to work on development projects or as trainers for future special educators.

Frequently asked questions about Special Education Teachers in primary school

• What does a special education teacher in primary school earn?
  - A special education teacher in primary school has an average salary of 45 900 SEK per month.
• How long is the education to become a special education teacher?
  - The education includes a basic teaching degree (3.5–5.5 years) followed by a 1.5-year special education program.
• Are there salary differences between women and men?
  - Yes, women earn 101% of men's salaries in the profession, with average salaries of 46 000 and 45 500 SEK respectively.
• What are the future prospects for special education teachers in primary school?
  - The Employment Service assesses that job opportunities are moderate and demand is expected to stay unchanged over five years.
• 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, depending on education, experience, and sector.
• What are the job responsibilities of a special education teacher?
  - Supporting students with special needs, designing individual education plans, and collaborating with student health services and colleagues.
• What benefits are common for special education teachers?
  - Collective agreements, occupational pension, wellness contributions, and professional development.