Teenage pregnancy rates in the UK remain stubbornly high ([The] National strategy for sexual health and HIV: implementation action plan London: DH, 2001)

Higher than other countries in Europe

Little evidence of reduction as a result of Government’s Teenage Pregnancy Strategy

Rates of sexually transmitted infections are rising fast and annually among teenagers

Age of first intercourse is falling and number of partners rising

The Wanless report recognises that healthier behaviours are critical to being able to go on affording the NHS.    ( Wanless, D. (2004) Securing good health for the whole population: Final report. HM Staionary Office. Norwich)

Health behaviours adopted during adolescence persist into adult lifeA school based intervention offers one of the very few opportunities to reach a whole population with a health message. ( Department Of Health. (2004a) Choosing Health: Making health choices easier. Public Health White Paper. London.       Kirby D. (2001b) Understanding What Works and What Doesn’t Work in Reducing Adolescent Sexual Risk Taking. Family Planning Perspectives 33 (6) 276-281.)