Even if you learn HTML and use templates, you certainly don't want to type new pages from scratch. Instead, you want to use a software tool that will do it for you.
There are many tools out there. The one you pick is a matter of personal preference.
Many people use Netscape Composer because it's free, it's relatively easy to use, and they already have it. But Composer is limited in terms of what it can do.
There are only two Web authoring tools which I can recommend without reservation. Both programs give you great control, are easy to use, and cost less than $100.
For Mac users: BBEdit
Download a free demo from http://www.barebones.com/free/free.html
For Windows users: HomeSite
Download a demo from http://www.allaire.com/Products/HomeSite/
To reiterate: the choice of tool is up to you. My recommendation reflects my own personal bias, and should not be taken as an official endorsement of these products.