The United Kingdom consists of four countries: England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, with a combined population of around 60 million.

Vocational education and training has a long tradition in the UK and is an increasing priority for all four countries, with each having recently launched, or being about to launch, new strategies for skills.

Although the four countries of the UK take different approaches to vocational education tailored to their own specific needs, the training and qualifications are interchangeable and of the same standard.

Each country places importance on ensuring that consistent standards and quality are built into the system and that its vocational education and training is flexible, responsive and relevant to the needs of industry and individuals.