This report provides an overview of vocational education and training systems in major European countries that is useful to practitioners and planners in further education. The first part provides brief descriptions of the vocational education and training systems in four countries: France, Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. By way of comparison, a description of vocational education and training in England and Wales has been included, following those of the four countries which were studied as part of the project. The main text for each country explains courses and qualifications and the various progression routes open to students, examines planning and administration of vocational education and training, and highlights current developments and issues. Each country text is accompanied by an inset providing information about the national economy. Tables list and define training levels in France and give the gross domestic product of the four countries and other leading industrialized nations. For comparison, a description of vocational education and training in England and Wales is included. The second part provides summaries of training in four employment sectors: construction, electrical and electronic engineering, motor vehicle mechanics, and travel and tourism. These summaries provide an industry profile and information on skill trends and curriculum concerns or implications for education and training. A brief conclusion summarizes practice across the four countries and the United Kingdom in four areas of concern to curriculum planners: participation, specialization, flexibility, and continuing education. (YLB)