Highest Level of Qualification (7 categories)

The highest level of qualification variable uses both the educational and vocational qualifications question, and the professional qualifications question. No qualifications: No academic, vocational or professional qualifications. Level 1: 1+ 'O' levels/CSE/GCSE (any grade), NVQ level 1, Foundation GNVQ. Level 2: 5+ 'O' levels, 5+ CSEs (grade 1), 5+ GCSEs (grade A - C), School Certificate, 1+ 'A' levels/'AS' levels, NVQ level 2, Intermediate GNVQ or equivalents. Level 3: 2+ 'A' levels, 4+ 'AS' levels, Higher School Certificate, NVQ level 3, Advanced GNVQ or equivalents. Level 4/5: First degree, Higher Degree, NVQ levels 4 - 5, HNC, HND, Qualified Teacher Status, Qualified Medical Doctor, Qualified Dentist, Qualified Nurse, Midwife, Health Visitor or equivalents. Other qualifications/level unknown: Other qualifications (e.g. City and Guilds, RSA/OCR, BTEC/Edexcel), Other Professional Qualifications.