This dataset provides 2001 Census estimates that classify usual residents aged 16 to 74 in England and Wales by sex and age by highest level of qualification. The estimates are as at census day, 29 April 2001.

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.

Figures have been randomly adjusted to avoid the release of confidential data