Education Support Courses

Education support is one of the busiest parts of Australia’s education and training sector. According to Jobs and Skills Australia, 1,318,100 people worked in education and training in February 2026. That was an increase of 52,800 on the year before. School education is the largest part of that workforce, employing 663,600 people. That scale creates steady demand for people who want to support teachers and students every day.

Within that sector, education aides do much of the hands-on support work in classrooms. Jobs and Skills Australia data shows 137,900 education aides employed nationally, with numbers growing by about 6,800 a year. Most work part-time, and 87% of the workforce is female. Median weekly earnings sit at $1,342, reflecting the largely part-time nature of the role.

Most people enter the field through a Certificate III in School Based Education Support. This course covers the basics of assisting teachers and supporting students with additional needs. Some Certificate III and Certificate IV places qualify for government funding, which can lower the cost for eligible students. Workers who want to specialise can go further. A Certificate IV in School Based Education Support builds skills in areas such as disability support and literacy programs.

Most education support roles need a Working with Children Check, since the work involves direct contact with students. Requirements vary by state, so it pays to check with your local education department before you apply. With strong ongoing demand and clear qualification pathways, education support offers a practical way to build a career around helping young Australians learn.

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