Become a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator
Are you passionate about birth? Would you like to make a difference by helping women and their partners through one of life’s most exciting, but challenging experiences?
Fulfill your dream of becoming a childbirth educator with a nationally and internationally-recognised qualification!
For more than 65 years, Lamaze International has been the global leader in evidence-based childbirth education and remains the gold standard in professional childbirth educator certification. The Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (LCCE) credential is internationally recognised and respected, demonstrating your commitment to evidence-based practice, professional excellence, and empowering families through education.
Two Pathways to Certification. One Gold-Standard Credential.
One of the most exciting developments in Lamaze certification is the introduction of the new Competency-Based Certification Pathway.
For the first time, aspiring Lamaze educators can choose between two pathways to achieve the prestigious LCCE credential:
Option 1: Certification Exam Pathway
The traditional certification pathway involves:
Completing the Lamaze Learning Guide
Attending a Lamaze-accredited seminar
Successfully passing the Lamaze Certification Exam
This pathway is ideal for those who prefer a formal examination process and wish to demonstrate their knowledge through a rigorous, internationally recognised assessment.
Option 2: NEW Competency-Based Certification Pathway
The Competency-Based Pathway recognises that exceptional childbirth educators demonstrate their expertise through teaching, facilitation, curriculum development and real-world application of knowledge.
This pathway allows candidates to demonstrate competence through:
Completion of the Lamaze Learning Guide
Attendance at a Lamaze-accredited seminar
Observation of a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator
Development of a complete childbirth education curriculum
Teaching demonstration and participant evaluations
Supportive verbal assessment with Lamaze reviewers
Rather than focusing solely on examination performance, this pathway enables candidates to showcase the practical skills and professional competencies required to become an effective childbirth educator.
Why This Matters
Many highly skilled birth professionals – midwives, doulas, nurses, allied health professionals and experienced educators – excel in real-world teaching environments but may not perform at their best in high-stakes examinations.
The introduction of the Competency-Based Pathway means there has never been a better time to become Lamaze certified.
Whether your strengths lie in academic assessment, practical teaching, curriculum design or learner engagement, Lamaze now offers a pathway that recognises and values your unique abilities.
What do Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educators do?
Promote the childbearing experience as a normal, natural and healthy process that profoundly affects families.
Assist families to discover and use strategies that facilitate normal, natural, healthy pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and early parenting.
Help families to understand how interventions and complications influence the normal course of pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and early parenting.
Provide information and support that encourages attachment between babies and their families.
Assist families to make informed decisions for childbearing.
Act as an advocate to promote normal, natural, healthy, fulfilling childbirth experiences for families.
Design, teach and evaluate a course in Lamaze preparation that increases one’s confidence and ability to give birth.
2027 Training Programs
In 2027, we are thrilled to be offering a brand new hybrid training, combining in-person and live online sessions, as well as a fully live online training.
REGISTER EARLY AND SAVE!
Register for either of our 2027 training programs before December 31st, 2026 and save 20% with our super early bird discount (a saving of $500)! All that is required is to complete our online registration form and pay the deposit fee ($400). The balance is not due until 30 days prior to the start of your chosen course, and flexible payment plans are always available.
To take advantage of our regular early bird discount (10%), you must register for one of our 2027 courses at least 2 months before the start of your chosen course. All that is required is to complete our online registration form and pay the deposit fee ($400). The balance is not due until 30 days prior to the start of your chosen course, and flexible payment plans are always available.
2027 Training Dates
Your Journey Starts Here
If you are passionate about supporting families, promoting evidence-based maternity care, and becoming a confident and effective childbirth educator, we’d love to help you achieve your goals.
Join our next Lamaze Childbirth Educator Training Program and take the first step towards earning the internationally respected LCCE credential.
NEW! Hybrid Training (in-person and live online)
For the first time, we are excited to offer a hybrid course spanning 5 x consecutive Fridays. Three sessions will take place in person in Melbourne, and the remaining two sessions will be held live online.
When: 19 February (in person), 26 February (online), 5 March (in person), 12 March (online), 19 March (in person), 2027
Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm each day AEST
Where: In person sessions will be held in Moorabbin, VIC. Online sessions will be held via Zoom.
Live Online Training
If attending the training in person is difficult, we have you covered with a fully live online training option. This 5-day course is spread across two consecutive weeks.
When: Friday August 6, Saturday August 7, Friday August 13, Saturday August 14, Sunday August 15, 2027
Time: 9:00am – 5:00pm each day AEST
Where: Online
Your Trainer
Tanya Cawthorne, FACCE, LCCE, MWomenChldH
Tanya Cawthorne is Australia’s only Lamaze Program Director and one of Lamaze International’s most experienced childbirth educator trainers, having trained hundreds of educators across Australia and internationally since 2015.
She is a Fellow of the Academy of Certified Childbirth Educators (FACCE), co-founder of Lamaze Australia, and a Past President of Lamaze International (2022). She holds a Master of Women’s and Children’s Health from the University of Technology Sydney, and serves on the Editorial Board of the Journal of Perinatal Education, bringing together extensive practical experience, academic expertise and international leadership in childbirth education.
As Director of the Birthwell Birthright Lamaze Childbirth Educator Training Program, Tanya is committed to advancing evidence-based childbirth education and strengthening the skills and confidence of birth professionals. Her areas of expertise include adult education, trauma-informed practice, informed decision-making and maternity care advocacy.
Tanya is passionate about preparing the next generation of childbirth educators to deliver high-quality, inclusive and evidence-based education that empowers women and families throughout pregnancy, birth and the transition to parenthood.
What some of our graduates have to say about our Lamaze educator training:
Tanya has provided a wonderful and valuable course, full of fantastic resources and information and she gives support and guidance throughout. After attending the seminar, I found that my passion and determination was even more driven. I can’t recommend this course highly enough for those wanting to become a Childbirth Educator!
~ Gemma Wilson, Founder of Birthability, NSW
“Lamaze has given me so many fantastic resources including evidence based practice and research to educate couples to understand how normal labour, birth and breastfeeding can be without anxiety and fear that is plaguing our society. The Six Healthy Birth Practices are a reminder of the basics of midwifery care and are the structure I’ve needed to create change. Thank you so much for allowing me to attend your Lamaze educator course at my hospital. Having been a childbirth educator for the past three years l was really impressed with the Lamaze curriculum, which has reignited my enthusiasm and passion for empowering women to strive for normal, healthy, natural childbirth again!”
~ Narelle Tsiros, Midwife & LCCE (Melbourne)
“Tanya is a fantastic tutor who creates easy to access, interactive classes where she breaks down the information in a way that everyone can understand. She is inclusive in her teaching, easy to approach, always happy to talk about topics you may wish to discuss and always open to answering any questions you may have, even if you are not actively in session. I cannot recommend Tanya any higher, I learned so much from her and continue to do so. I feel very grateful to have Tanya as my guide through my education journey and know that anyone who gets to learn in her classes is very lucky to have her.”
~ Aiya Sellers, LCCE, Artemis Birthing Services, NZ
“I completed the Lamaze Online Training course with Tanya in late 2021 and it has changed my life. Having never done any sort of online zoom courses I was initially quite nervous and unsure, but Tanya immediately brought a feeling of welcoming and warmth to the group. Tanya is one of the most knowledgeable, welcoming and kind people that you could meet. Her ability to engage, teach and encourage is palpable. I was able to learn so much and it gave me an opportunity to meet like-minded women who have become a strong support and guiding hand in my endeavours to begin my own business. When the course is finished, Tanya is still accessible and is keen to help you in any way she can. She truly cares. I highly recommend this course”. ~ Sharday Stirton, LCCE, NSW
Curious to learn more?
VIDEO: The Future of Lamaze Certification: More Pathways, More Possibilities
Join Lamaze Program Director Tanya Cawthorne and Executive Director of Lamaze International, Robin Shadle as they discuss the exciting new competency-based certification pathway and what it means for aspiring and current Lamaze educators.
RECOMMENDED READING LIST
Lamaze Learning Guide
The Lamaze Learning Guide is a self-study resource designed to help you develop the competencies of a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator. It prepares you to teach the essential content for Lamaze classes and will continue to serve as an important reference for evidence-based information throughout your professional career. The Lamaze Learning Guide is considered essential reading. For more information on the Learning Guide, as well as other exam preparation resources, click here.
Lothian, J. & DeVries, C. (2017). Giving Birth with Confidence (3rd edition). New York, NY: De Capo Press.
Simkin, P., Whalley, J., Keppler, A., Durham, J.& Bolding, A. (2016 or 2018 edition). Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide (5th edition). New York, NY: De Capo Press.
Dempsey, R. (2026) Birth With Confidence: Savvy Choices for Normal Birth, Boat House Press (2nd Edition)
A comprehensive book on breastfeeding. Some suggestions can be found below;
La Leche League. (2010). Womanly Art of Breastfeeding. Schaumburg, IL: La Leche League.
Mohrbacher, N. & Kendall-Tacket, K. (2010). Breastfeeding Made Simple. Oakland, CA: New Harbinger Publications.
Newman, J. & Pitman, T. (2014). Jack Newman’s Guide to Breastfeeding. London, UK: Pinter & Martin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much does the training cost?
Consider registering early to take advantage of our early bird discount!
Participants who register more than 60 days prior to the start of their chosen training course are eligible for a 10% early bird discount $2,250.
Participants who register less than 60 days prior to the start of a training program will pay the full cost of the program which is $2,500.
*Important note for international students (outside of Australia)*
For international payments, we accept payment via Wise (preferred) or PayPal.
Wise offers secure international transfers with significantly lower fees and better exchange rates than PayPal. If paying by PayPal, please note that a 4.5% processing fee will be added to the invoice. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding payment if you are an international student.
What does this fee cover?
Included in this fee are the 5 x days of training (hybrid or live online), exclusive access to extensive online resources, AND monthly study sessions via Zoom all the way through to the next round of the Lamaze certification exam.
What’s not covered?
In addition, you will need to purchase the Lamaze Learning Guide via the Lamaze International website (US$250) and when you’re ready to sit the Lamaze Certification exam or register for the competency-based pathway, there is a fee of US$500 which includes 3 years of certification/membership with Lamaze International.
**Please refer to our training program brochure, which details the additional costs of study materials and exam/certification fees from Lamaze International.
Q: Do you offer payment plans?
Yes. Flexible payment plans are available to help make the program more accessible. Please contact us to discuss your personal situation. We are always happy to accommodate you.
Q: Do I need to have any formal training or qualifications (e.g. midwifery, nursing or doula training) before doing this course?
No. There are no pre-requisites for this course, other than a passion for supporting birthing families through evidence-based education! Lamaze recognises that educators come from all walks of life and we welcome you regardless of your level of previous knowledge and experience.
Q: Am I a qualified childbirth educator after I finish the course?
You are able to start teaching classes as soon as you feel confident doing so, however you are unable to use the Lamaze educator seal, or promote your classes as “Lamaze” classes unless you have passed Lamaze International Certification exam.
Q: What’s the difference between the exam and competency-based pathway?
Lamaze International now offers two pathways to certification. Exam Pathway: Candidates demonstrate their knowledge by successfully completing the Lamaze Certification Exam. Competency-Based Pathway: Candidates demonstrate their knowledge and teaching competence through a portfolio-based assessment process that includes practical demonstrations and a verbal assessment. Both pathways lead to the same internationally recognised credential: Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (LCCE).
Q: How long does it take to become certified?
The training seminar is delivered over five live online days. Following the seminar, most participants spend several months completing their certification requirements. The timeframe varies depending on your chosen certification pathway, your existing experience, and how much time you can dedicate to the process.
Q: Is the program online or in person?
We offer both options. Our new hybrid training runs across 5 x consecutive Fridays and comprises of 3 x in person sessions in Melbourne and 2 x live online sessions.
Our live online training enables participants from anywhere in Australia and around the world to attend. Sessions are highly interactive and include discussion, activities, small-group work, and opportunities to connect with fellow students. The live online training runs across 2 x consecutive weeks (Friday-Saturday, followed by Friday-Sunday the following week).
Q: Will I receive support after the seminar?
Yes. One of the unique strengths of our program is the ongoing support provided after the live seminar. Students are invited to attend regular study and mentoring sessions, receive guidance throughout the certification process, and become part of a supportive community of childbirth educators.
Q: Once I am certified, do I need to re-certify in the future?
Yes, Lamaze International has exceptionally high standards, making our educators some of the most informed and up-to-date childbirth educators in the world. LCCEs need to re-certify every three years by demonstrating continued relevant professional development and study. LCCEs are not required to sit the exam again provided they maintain their continued professional development. To find out more about the re-certification process, please click here.
Q: Can international students attend?
Yes. We regularly welcome students from New Zealand, South East Asia, North America, Europe, and elsewhere. Because the program is delivered online, you can participate from anywhere. Please contact us before registering so we can discuss time zone considerations.
Q: What if I don’t want to sit an exam?
That’s perfectly okay. Lamaze International’s new competency-based certification pathway provides an alternative route to certification for those who prefer to demonstrate their knowledge and teaching skills through practical assessment rather than a written examination.
Q: What continuing education / professional development points are available?
The birthwell birthright Lamaze Childbirth Educator training seminar has been awarded the following professional development credits;
32.5 Lamaze Contact Hours may be earned for attending the entire activity and completing a participant evaluation.
28.06 R-CERPs and 0.5 L-CERPs recognized by IBLCE. IBLCE CERPs Recognition Number: LTP Number CLT108-12.
Provider approved by the California Board of Registered Nursing, Provider #15932 for 39.0 contact hours.
This program is recognised by ICEA for 32.5 contact hours. Partial credit is not awarded.
This program is the only childbirth educator training in Australia that has been endorsed by CAPEA – Childbirth and Parenting Educators of Australia.
We would love to hear from you! Please contact us if you have any questions regarding our training program.
Forty years of research and learning from women’s experience of normal, natural birth have provided evidence that has gradually but dramatically changed Lamaze from being a method for giving birth, to a philosophy that provides the foundation and direction for women as they prepare to give birth and become mothers. “Breathing” is no longer the hallmark of Lamaze.
The mission of Lamaze International is to advance safe and healthy pregnancy, birth and early parenting through evidence-based education and advocacy. Our vision is “knowledgeable parents making informed decisions.”
Forming the foundation of the organisation are the Lamaze Six Healthy Birth Practices. These evidence-based practices, adapted from the World Health Organisation, promote, protect and support natural, safe and healthy birth.
To learn more about the Lamaze approach to Pregnancy, Birth and Early Parenting please click here.
Today Lamaze affirms the normalcy of birth, acknowledges women’s inherent ability to birth their babies and promotes the Lamaze Healthy Birth Practices. The Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator promotes, supports and protects every woman’s right to give birth, confident in her own ability, free to find comfort in a wide variety of ways, and supported by her family and all members of the health care team.
