Updated: 25 October 2024
Legacy Qualifications vs. New QCTO Occupational Qualifications in ECD
As of June 30, 2023, legacy qualifications in Early Childhood Development (ECD) are being phased out to make way for new, industry-relevant occupational qualifications. These older qualifications, developed before the establishment of the QCTO and OQSF frameworks, are being replaced with updated credentials that focus on aligning education with current industry demands.
Why the Change?
The shift from the old SETA-based system to the QCTO (Quality Council for Trades and Occupations) is part of a broader strategy to improve vocational training in South Africa. QCTO qualifications focus on practical, workplace-ready skills, addressing gaps left by the unit-standard-based system of SETA qualifications.
What is an Occupational Qualification?
An occupational qualification is designed to prepare learners for specific trades, professions, or occupations by combining theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and workplace experience. Instead of just classroom learning, learners participate in real-world work settings, gaining hands-on experience.
Key Differences:
- Legacy Qualifications: Each unit standard carried its own NQF level and credit value. Credits were earned and recorded individually.
- QCTO Qualifications: Credits are awarded for the entire qualification, not for individual units, streamlining the process and focusing more on practical competence.
Benefits of the QCTO System:
- Strong focus on practical, workplace-based learning.
- Standardized national exams provide consistent competency measures.
- Industry-aligned qualifications produce job-ready graduates, better equipped for the workforce.
Important Changes:
- Training Providers: Must obtain QCTO accreditation to continue offering relevant qualifications.
- Existing Learners: Can complete SETA-accredited programs until June 30, 2027.
- New Learners: Must enrol in QCTO-accredited programs, which include national exams and practical components.
What This Means for ECD Courses:
The transition impacts ECD qualifications, with older courses being replaced by updated occupational certificates that better meet industry needs.
This transition to occupational qualifications brings South Africa’s vocational training in line with modern industry demands, ensuring learners are better prepared for their chosen careers in ECD.
By embracing these changes, learners, training providers, and industries can ensure a smoother transition and a brighter future for education in the country.
Need more info?
We invite you to reach out to Thuto Teach if you have any questions or would like more information about the accredited courses we offer. As a professional institution recognized by ETDP SETA and QCTO, we are committed to providing high-quality education that prepares your staff for impactful careers in ECD. Our accredited programs ensure that learners receive the best training, equipping them with the skills, competencies, and ethical grounding necessary to succeed in the ECD sector.
Feel free to contact us for more details and how we can support your school’s professional development.
Thuto Teach: info@thutoteach.co.za or 082 899 7321/ 062 938 7228