Sesame Lane celebrated as large employer of the year at North Coast Queensland Training Awards

Sesame Lane has been recognised for its outstanding commitment to professional learning and workforce development, receiving the Large Employer of the Year award at the North Coast Queensland Training Awards.

The accolade reflects the organisation’s dedication to nurturing talent, investing in its people, and fostering a culture of lifelong learning across its network of early childhood education and care services.

At the heart of Sesame Lane’s success is a strong belief that when educators are supported to grow, children and communities thrive. Sesame Lane has long prioritised staff development through structured training programs, mentorship, and opportunities for career advancement.

“Our educators are at the core of everything we do,” Kerri Smith, Head of Sesame Lane said. “This award recognises the effort we put into creating an environment where our people feel valued, supported, and inspired to deliver the best outcomes for children and families.”

The award also highlights the vital role of the organisation’s Training and Development Team. Their tailored programs equip educators with the skills, confidence, and knowledge to respond to the evolving needs of the early childhood sector.

From supporting new educators in gaining qualifications to delivering advanced leadership programs, the team’s work has positioned Sesame Lane as a leader in professional learning. By aligning its training strategies with the National Quality Standard and the Early Years Learning Framework, Sesame Lane ensures that development opportunities translate into high-quality educational experiences for children.

Sesame Lane’s approach goes beyond compliance training. It focuses on building a workforce that embraces innovation, reflective practice, and continuous improvement. This philosophy is embedded across all centres, creating an environment where educators are empowered to take ownership of their learning and contribute meaningfully to service quality.

Educators have access to a range of pathways, including Certificate III and Diploma qualifications, leadership courses, and specialised workshops. Partnerships with training providers and industry bodies ensure these opportunities are current, responsive, and aligned with sector priorities.

The award was presented by Skills for Queensland, acknowledging Sesame Lane’s proactive investment in its workforce and the broader impact of its training initiatives. The organisation’s success serves as a model for how early childhood education providers can build strong, capable teams while delivering exceptional outcomes for children.

While the award is a significant achievement, Sesame Lane remains focused on the future. Ongoing investment in training and educator wellbeing will continue to be a priority, with new programs in development to further enhance skills and career opportunities across the organisation.

“This recognition is a testament to the hard work of our educators and our belief that supporting our people is the key to success,” Kerri Smith said. “We will continue to build on this momentum, ensuring every team member has the opportunity to reach their potential.”

As Sesame Lane celebrates this milestone, the message is clear: empowered educators create empowered communities.

For more information about Sesame Lane and its award-winning programs, visit Sesame Lane’s website.