This reference guide to 25 vocational languages qualifications by major awarding bodies in the UK is presented in table format and gives details of the form, content and level of the qualification, with information on fees, dates, target age range and languages covered.

The structure of the National Language Standards forms a framework to the book. These are explained and their relationship to each of the vocational qualifications is made explicit. There is a brief no-nonsense, run-through of issues concerning vocational qualifications and advice on selecting a suitable award. This introduction also explains options and highlights what to look out for in a course: whether it is an advanced diploma in business studies or acquiring a simple skill like telephoning. Full documentary support is supplied: a glossary of abbreviations in vocational education and languages; names and addresses of awarding bodies; exam statistics; other sources of useful information.

All in all, an indispensable guide to an area of language learning that can be a minefield of jargon and excessive choice.