This study by the Scottish Executive examined attainment of Higher National Certificates (HNCs) and Scottish Vocational Qualifications (SVQs) (types of educational qualifications) by child care providers in Scotland, noting the perceptions of key participants. The study had five key objectives: (1) to determine levels of uptake and, if possible, completion of both college-based and workplace qualifications, profiling respondents; (2) to explore students' and employers' opinions of the qualifications from a career and practical view; (3) to understand employers' views and opinions on the range of qualifications, for example about the quality of qualifications and the channels through which they are delivered; (4) to assess the relative merits of the qualifications from the perspective of training providers/awarding bodies; and (5) to identify any changes or modifications required to the overall design and delivery of child care qualifications. Based on findings in these areas, it was concluded that stakeholders regard the HNC as the better option in terms of career enhancement and academic quality, but most accepted that the SVQ was suitable for those already working in the profession. The SVQ was seen to offer employment opportunities of its own as well as more flexible modes of delivery. (EV)