Special teacher, training school

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

A special education teacher in training school supports and teaches students with extensive intellectual disabilities. Tasks include adapting instruction to each student's individual needs, developing special pedagogical methods, and collaborating with other school staff, parents, and sometimes habilitation services or other support agencies. The environment is often small-scale, with smaller student groups and close cooperation between various professional roles. The focus is on creating safety and structure, and working long-term on students' communication, independence, and social development.

Salary development over time

The salary for special education teachers in training school has steadily increased over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 43,000 SEK per month, followed by an increase to 44 400 SEK in 2023, and further to the current level of 45 900 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of approximately 6.7% during the period, which is somewhat higher than the general teacher salary development. Key drivers behind the increase include continued high demand for special educators, increased requirements for pedagogical competence, and a growing awareness of the profession's importance in schools. Despite stable salary growth, salary variation is significant, with education level and sector playing major roles.

Special education teacher in training 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
• Men: 45 500 SEK/month
• Women earn: 101 % of what men do
• Regional differences: Salary variations occur, especially between metropolitan areas and smaller towns

Education and qualifications

To work as a special education teacher in training school, a teaching license with a special education degree is required, often with a focus on intellectual disabilities. The educational path is based on a fundamental teacher education, followed by further training in special education. Practical experience and ongoing professional development are crucial, and sometimes specialized courses in communication support or low-arousal approaches are also requested.

• Teaching license: Basic requirement, often primary or preschool teacher (3–4.5 years)
• Special education degree: Further education, 1–1.5 years
• Focus on intellectual disabilities: Recommended
• Internship and work experience: Meritorious for employment
• Courses in communication support: Additional merit

Common benefits and compensations

Special education teachers in training schools are often offered benefits such as extra vacation days, wellness allowances, professional development, and flexible working hours. Pension schemes and insurance are usually included, especially within the public sector. Some employers also offer mentoring and special work clothing.

Competition and challenges

The job market for special education teachers in training schools is balanced, meaning there is neither a shortage nor an oversupply of qualified professionals. The challenge lies in meeting students' highly varied needs and continuously updating one's skills in special education. Workload can sometimes be high, especially when collaborating with multiple stakeholders and parents. There is also increased focus on documentation and evaluation of interventions. The profession requires resilience and the ability to handle emotionally demanding situations.

Tips for aspiring special education teachers in training school

To succeed as a special education teacher in training school, patience and attentiveness are important, as the work often involves following each student's small progress over a long period. Flexibility and creativity facilitate adapting instruction to rapidly changing needs. Good collaboration skills are also vital, as dialogue with colleagues and parents is central to the role. Personal engagement makes a difference for students' development, but the ability to set boundaries and manage your own recovery is crucial for sustainability. Ongoing professional development and actively seeking mentorship contribute to personal and professional growth. Ultimately, a genuine commitment to inclusion and everyone’s right to learning is essential.

Key facts about special education teachers in training school

• Salary range: 34,600–50,700 SEK/month
• Average salary: 45 900 SEK/month
• Education level: Teaching license + special education degree
• Work environment: Small groups, close collaboration, varied daily tasks
• Job openings (2024): 434 advertised positions

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a special education teacher in training school, there are opportunities to advance to roles such as special pedagogist, team leader, or development coordinator within special education. Some choose to further their education in leadership and move into principal or school management roles. The Swedish Employment Agency's forecast indicates that the job market for special educators and pedagogists is balanced, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Those with specialization in intellectual disabilities are particularly sought after, opening good career opportunities in both public and private sectors.

Frequently asked questions about special education teachers in training school

• What does a special education teacher in training school earn?
  - The average salary is 45 900 SEK/month, with a range between 34,600 and 50,700 SEK/month.
• How does one become a special education teacher in training school?
  - The educational path is a teaching license followed by a special education degree, preferably with a focus on intellectual disabilities.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 46 000 SEK and men 45 500 SEK; women thus earn 101% of men's salaries.
• What is the job market like?
  - There is a balance between supply and demand; 434 job openings were advertised during 2024.
• What are the duties of a special education teacher in training school?
  - The tasks include planning, teaching, and supporting students with extensive intellectual disabilities in small groups.
• What personal qualities are important?
  - Patience, attentiveness, collaboration skills, and creativity are essential for success in the profession.
• What further education opportunities are available?
  - Opportunities exist to qualify as a special pedagogist, leader, or principal within special education.