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The main aim of this project was to review the relevant literature on the impact of vocational qualifications (VQs). It investigated: What drives learner choice? What do we know about the nature and extent of the market for VQs? How do different delivery mechanisms impact on the effectiveness of VQs? What does the literature tell us about the wider impact of VQs? The findings show that there is a positive link between the attainment of qualifications and future participation, and some evidence to suggest that attainment of VQs is beneficial to an individual’s level of self confidence. It also shows that the demand for VQs that are delivered off-the-job and which combine theoretical knowledge and practical skills continues to be high. Other findings include: a lack of detailed statistical information on the numbers and characteristics of those taking up and achieving vocationally-related qualifications (VRQs) and other vocational qualifications (OVQs); more OVQs than National/Scottish Vocational Qualifications (N/SVQs) are awarded; while the cumulative number of NVQ awards continues to increase, the annual total of people gaining NVQs has started to decrease; and age is a key determinant of VQ take-up. This report is presented in 10 sections: section one is the introduction; section two outlines the methodology; section three outlines the development of VQs in the UK; section four provides an international perspective on the development of VQs in England; sections five to eight present the findings in relation to learner choice, market for VQs, delivery, and impact; section nine contains the review’s conclusions; and the final section offers some recommendations for further research.