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Writer's picturePassent El Soury

Your way to becoming a preschool teacher

Updated: May 4, 2023

Does the thought of teaching preschool make you happy? Do you enjoy working with children and have a passion for education? If so, then this article is for you.

In Sweden, Preschool teachers have a lot of opportunities. There will always be a supply of exciting job openings from public schools to childcare centers. The starting salary of this job is 34000 SEK. Lesson plans are focused on fun activities to get students excited about learning. Becoming a preschool teacher means positively impacting students’ social and academic skills during one of the most influential times in a child’s brain development. Preschool Teachers: career path, Salary, job outlook, education, and a true experience!


Get insights into an actual journey from Rabab Al-khafaji early childhood teacher in Helsingborg.



Who is Rabab?

Rabab Al Khafiji came to Sweden a year …. She studied economics in her home country. Rabab started by validating her certificates, and it came that she could look for a job as a company economist. But, she thought that she needed the language to move forward in Sweden “I felt I won’t be able to integrate and communicate without the language.” So, I started by SFI and then completed distance till Svenska 3 through Hermods.


Why did you choose this career?

I registered as a substitute teacher at different schools, worked hard, and always heard (unfortunately, not certified teachers). I felt limited, and my eagerness for self-development made me apply to study at the university to become certified. Also, The manager of the school was extremely encouraging and positive toward me. She gave me advice and offered me a job contract. She even showed interest in giving me a fast job, but it required a university degree.

So, I applied for a 100% distance program in Eskilistona; the studies took three years and a half. The requirement to register is a “link.”


How did you manage the challenges of studies and being a wife and a mother?

I remember the first day in university; I cried because I couldn’t pronounce a word and felt terrible. I thought of quitting, but I was motivated to go on and didn’t want to let go of my dreams. I had two kids. It was a lot of responsibility when I started my journey to study and work in parallel. But, My husband helped and supported this step; we agreed that this is essential for my development and family stability. We exchanged our responsibilities during the day to fulfill the requirements of my studies and my substitute teacher position. Without his help and support, it would have been tough.


Can you give us an example of a working day?

We are usually two teachers per class, and we help each other manage the classroom.

7:30 am to 9:00 the day starts by taking the kids out, depending on the weather. Then take the kids inside to wash and eat fruit.

9:00 to 10:30 We divide the kids into two groups, each averaging five kids. We teach them one subject maths, science, etc. I don’t stress about kids

10:30 - 11:00 hot meal, followed by nap time for kids; we take our rest time at 11:00.

11:00-13:00 we exchange with each other, some stay in the nap room with the kids, and others go for their lunch and do their paperwork, and vise versa.

13:00 -13:30 everyone should be up and awake to change diapers

13:30 -14:00 feed the kids snacks

14:00-16:00 we work with the kids.

16:15. I finish my working day


What do you love most about your job?

I love the kids. I can compare nothing to my satisfaction when I see the kids develop and do the things I teach them. Teaching them problem-solving skills makes them realize their potential; the happiness I feel when I make one of the kids says, “yes, I did it,” is incomparable to anything else.


What’s your advice to anyone who would like to choose this career?

  • To have the courage and challenge yourself. Please don’t take a decision unless you try it and take an opportunity through the substitute bank.

  • During your time as a substitute teacher, try to observe the childhood teacher as much as possible because it will make it easier for you in your studies; you will apply what you observe and practice during your substitute time. You need to understand the routine of your school and don’t be shy to ask.

  • Consider going to university; you will be knowledgeable, and your view about working in Sweden will change. Take your time understanding your working environment before socializing with your colleagues.

  • Always receive the kids and the parents with a smile, and give the kids kindness, attention, and safety.

  • The most important the person needs to have a goal and plan.

What’s your advice during challenging times and misunderstandings at work?

  • Open dialogue with the parents if there is any misunderstanding and ask what’s wrong. Don’t try to defend your opinion or push yourself into supporting the road. Be a good listener, try to understand the other’s point of view, and communicate your point of view in a good and calm way. Take any comments positively to develop your competencies.

  • The limited time between writing and reflecting on the kid’s development and keeping the routine of the kid’s activities at the nursery.

How to apply for a substitute teacher in Helsingborgstad?


Apply to study förskollarare


To read more tips click here



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