Linking the themes
Young people generally do not isolate different aspects of their lives and can with an effective educational and participative process learn about themselves, and reflect on and develop insight into how different aspects of their lives influence one another.
Blake, 2005
One of the key messages of the health promoting school is that good health involves the whole child. That is, it involves children's physical, social and emotional well-being as well as the context and settings that they find themselves in.
The different elements that make up young peoples' lives all influence and affect their behaviour. The way they feel about themselves will influence whether they are physically active and what type of food they eat, just as drinking alcohol or taking drugs can influence sexual behaviour. It is important, therefore, that these topics are presented in a cohesive way that allows young people to develop the knowledge and understanding they need in order to make informed lifestyle choices.
Whole school approach
Policy, planning and delivery all need to reflect the importance of a holistic integrated approach. For example 'Hungry for Success, a Whole School Approach to School Meals in Scotland' (Scottish Executive, 2002), highlights the importance of the eating environment and the impact that this can have on:
- confidence
- self-esteem
- partnership working
- pupil and family/carer involvement
- promoting inclusion
- eliminating stigma.
Many young people, particularly girls, struggle with negative self-image, cultural pressures, dieting preoccupations and eating disorders. Allowing space in the school curriculum to provide supportive education, discussion and communication about these sensitive issues is part of a holistic approach and may help prevent the development of related problems.
Evidence shows that low confidence, lack of self-esteem, stress, anxiety and negative body image are closely linked to an unwillingness to participate in physical activity. It is important to work with children and young people to find out what they perceive as barriers to being physically active – and to support them in overcoming these barriers.
Being physically active can improve emotional well-being, help with anxiety, depression and low self-esteem and may even contribute to preventing such problems developing. Ensuring that the environment and daily timetable of the school allows a variety of ways for everyone to be more physically active will provide both physical and psychological benefits for all.
Useful resources
Blake, S, 'Health Education and Young People: it's time to join up', Health Education, 2005, 105 (4)
Scottish Executive, 'Hungry for Success, a Whole School Approach to School Meals in Scotland', 2002
