England and Wales: perspectives in school health

The main roots of health care and health education for young people in the United Kingdom are described. Contributions of the National Health Service to health screening and developmental assessment are described, primarily through the function of school health services. The development and future potential for effective school health education also is considered in the light of the impending introduction of a new national curriculum. The evaluation of the concept of the "health promoting school" is highlighted as a key area for future development, together with more emphasis on achieving a balance between health enhancement and educational outcomes to school health education. Greater priority for evaluation of school health education also is advocated.