This chapter discusses the theoretical foundations and principles of health education, describes the essential steps in the community health education process and explores the community nurse’s role in health education. Health education is an integral part of the community nurse’s role and can have a powerful influence on individual and community behaviour. Education can take place either formally or informally—for example, at school, in other educational institutions, the workplace, through the media, from a friend or colleague, or by learning a hobby. In keeping with an empowering model of education, the learner is viewed as an equal partner in the teaching–learning process, and therefore has shared responsibility for decision-making. Reflection on our own educational experiences will probably substantiate the assertion that people learn best when they are active participants in the process. Learning is difficult to achieve for a person when there appears to be little or no relevance to their circumstances, interests or needs.