Early Childhood Education and Montessori Courses in Sri Lanka
Last updated: November 2026 · Written by the StudyWay Editorial Team
Quick answer
Early childhood education (ECE) trains you to teach and care for young children before they start school, in preschools, Montessoris and daycare centres. Most people start with a certificate and move on to a diploma for deeper skills and better jobs. Early childhood education is one of the most popular teaching subjects on StudyWay, with over 117,000 searches and a strong inquiry rate.
What will I learn?
| Area | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Child development | How young children grow, think, feel and learn |
| Teaching methods | Play-based learning, Montessori principles, activity planning |
| Classroom practice | Managing a group of young children calmly and safely |
| Health, safety and care | Hygiene, nutrition, first aid and child protection |
| Working with parents | Communicating progress and building trust with families |
| Teaching practice | Real experience in a preschool or Montessori setting |
Certificate or diploma?
- Certificate: covers the basics and suits beginners or assistant teachers.
- Diploma: goes deeper, includes more teaching practice, and is more valued by employers and parents.
- Higher study: some teachers continue to degrees in education or early childhood studies.
Choose a course with plenty of real teaching practice. Working with children is learned by doing.
Tell us what you want to study, and institutes will contact you with options
Who is early childhood teaching a good fit for?
People who are patient, caring, creative and energetic, and who enjoy songs, stories, art and play. Many students join after O/L or A/L, and many mothers and career changers also train as preschool teachers.
Can I open my own preschool?
Yes. Many early childhood teachers later open their own preschool or daycare. Along with teaching skills, you'll need to understand management, finances and local requirements for running a preschool. See our business management courses guide and entrepreneurship guide.
What other teaching careers are there?
Early childhood teaching can lead to primary teaching, special needs support or teaching English. See our guide to becoming a teacher. Strong English helps in many preschools, so see our English courses guide.
Can I work abroad as a preschool teacher?
Some countries recruit early childhood teachers and childcare workers. Each has its own rules on qualifications, experience and visas. See our study abroad guide.
Find your early childhood course on StudyWay
Frequently asked questions
Can I do a Montessori course after O/L?
Many early childhood certificates accept students after O/L. Check each course's entry requirements on StudyWay.
Is a Montessori diploma better than a certificate?
A diploma usually covers more and includes more teaching practice, so employers value it more.
Can I study early childhood education on weekends?
Yes. Many courses offer weekend, evening or online options.
What's the difference between Montessori and other preschool methods?
Montessori is one well-known approach, built on child-led, hands-on learning. Many courses cover several approaches.
Can I start a preschool after my course?
Many teachers do after gaining experience. You'll also need management skills and to follow local requirements.