Legacy Qualifications
Legacy Qualifications remain an important part of South Africa’s qualifications framework, providing accredited learning pathways across a range of industries. Explore how Legacy Qualifications work, how they differ from QCTO Qualifications, and the programmes currently offered by BESEC.
What are legacy qualifications?
Legacy Qualifications are nationally recognised, accredited qualifications developed under South Africa’s previous qualifications framework. While new occupational qualifications are now developed through the QCTO, Legacy Qualifications remain valid and continue to provide structured learning pathways across a range of industries and occupations.
At BESEC, our Legacy Qualifications include accredited learnerships in business, management, and wholesale and retail, helping organisations build practical workplace capability while supporting their Skills Development objectives.
Are legacy qualifications still recognised?
Yes. Legacy Qualifications remain nationally recognised and accredited qualifications. They continue to provide valid learning pathways and are offered where they remain approved within the South African qualifications framework. At BESEC, our Legacy Qualifications deliver practical workplace skills while supporting organisational Skills Development initiatives.
Business Legacy Qualifications
Wholesale & Retail Legacy Qualifications
What is the difference between legacy and QCTO qualifications?
Legacy Qualifications were developed under the previous unit standard-based framework, while QCTO Qualifications are designed around specific occupations and combine knowledge, practical skills, and workplace experience.
Both pathways provide accredited learning, but they differ in structure and delivery. The most suitable option will depend on the qualification required, learner profile, and organisation’s Skills Development objectives.
| Legacy Qualifications | QCTO Qualifications |
|---|---|
| Unit standard-based structure | Occupation-based structure |
| Established qualification pathways | Current occupational qualification framework |
| Delivered through accredited learning programmes | Combines knowledge, practical skills, and workplace experience |
| Available in selected business, management, retail, and wholesale fields | Available across a broader range of defined occupations |
Frequently asked questions
Legacy Qualifications are generally structured around registered unit standards grouped into fundamental, core, and elective components. Learners complete the required credits through training and assessment to achieve the full qualification.
Yes. South Africa is gradually replacing historically registered Legacy Qualifications with newer occupational qualifications developed through the QCTO. However, enrolment and completion deadlines differ by qualification, so availability must be confirmed for the specific programme.
Qualifications already achieved remain valid, even after the qualification reaches its registration end date or is phased out. The achievement remains part of the National Qualifications Framework record and can still be verified through SAQA.