This Curriculum Framework for Secondary Schools is based on the initial Health and Family Life Education Regional Curriculum Framework for Ages 9-14. This document provided the basic guidance required to develop the relevant Standards and Core Outcomes for the various age groups. Consequently the background information and the guidance for the use of the Framework is derived from this document. The Framework combines health promotion and problem prevention in an attempt to not only reduce risky behaviours but equally promote healthy decision making, development and lifestyles. In recognising that the development of social competencies is facilitated by strong social support, the Framework explicitly seeks to promote and encourage strong partnerships between the home, school and community environment of children and adolescents.