The National Guidelines on Religious and Moral Education 5-14 were published in November 1992 following national consultation. The introduction to the Guidelines included reference to the role of appropriate religious authorities in determining the religious education curriculum in denominational schools, and anticipated the production of further guidance. This document, which has been produced through co-operation between the Catholic Education Commission and the Scottish Office Education Department, provides such guidance.

These guidelines are based on the contents of, and response to, the consultation document which was issued in December 1993. They are intended to assist teachers as they help Catholic pupils to develop a knowledge and understanding of their own faith and to support their faith formation. They also aim to encourage an understanding of, and respect for, those who adhere to other Christian traditions and other World Religions. The Catholic Church recognises that moral education is an integral part of religious education, and therefore the presentation of Christian moral values permeates the philosophy of the document. It is hoped that this document can also be used to benefit Catholic pupils unable to attend Roman Catholic schools and contribute to the wider field of religious and moral education.

These guidelines provide a coherent and progressive approach to religious education in Roman Catholic schools. Archbishop Winning, president of the Catholic Education Commission, and the Secretary of State commend the document and invite schools to use it in the implementation of the Religious Education programme.