The health promoting schools (HPS) movement was
initiated by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in
the mid 1980's.
Internationally, the European Network of Health Promoting Schools continues to support health promoting schools in many countries in Europe. HPS has been strongly adopted in England with the government setting the goal that all UK schools meet the 'National Healthy School Standard' by 2004.
The concept was introduced to Australia in 1992 by the Australian Network for Healthy School Communities, which became the Australian Health Promoting Schools Association Inc. (AHPSA) in 1994.
In Queensland, an increasing number of schools are successfully using the HPS approach, and being recognised for the very positive outcomes achieved by their communities. The Queensland Health Promoting Schools Project and Network began in 1992 with the support of Education Queensland and Queensland Health. Members of the Queensland Health Promoting Schools Network included parents, teachers, State, Catholic and Independent schools, government departments, and community groups. The aim of the Network was to share information, strategies and resources to support Queensland schools interested in the HPS approach. (The Health Promoting Schools Association - Qld Inc. now continues this role.)
In 1997, the Commonwealth Department of Health and Family Services commissioned the National Health Promoting Schools Initiative (NHPSI). This comprehensive program of consultation and research was carried out by the Australian Health Promoting Schools Association (AHPSA) to identify national baseline data and contribute to the development of a national strategy. The Queensland Health Promoting Schools Network was a major player in this national initiative, and schools and parents and citizens associations throughout the state took part in the consultation.
The NHPSI resulted in the publication of:
a National Strategy and Action Plan, now updated - National Framework for Health Promoting Schools 2000-2003
four research reports and a research monograph
The Queensland Health Promoting Schools Network incorporated in 1999 - as the Health Promoting Schools Association - Queensland Inc. (HPSAQ).
The HPSAQ, a not-for-profit organisation, provides members with newsletters, email updates, a website and professional development activities. Click here to become a HPSAQ member.
The 6th National Health Promoting Schools Conference was held in May 2002 and hosted by HPSAQ. This highly successful conference joined schools and health organisations from around Queensland to share stories and experiences of addressing health issues, overcoming difficulties and celebrating HPS successes.
An increasing number of schools in Queensland (and other Australian states) are using the HPS approach to enhance their school communities and create more supportive environments in which to learn, work and play.
National Framework for Health Promoting Schools 2000-2003 Vision and Principles of health promoting schools
Vision Statement for Health Promoting Schools in Australia
All children in Australia will belong to school communities which are committed to promoting lifelong learning, health and well-being.
Guiding principles of health promoting schools:
Health and learning
Good health supports lifelong learning, living and well-being.
Supportive, safe environment
Students grow and learn in a safe, caring, responsive and empowering environment.
Holistic (ecological) approach
Health-promoting schools view health holistically, addressing the physical, social, mental, intellectual and spiritual dimensions of health through comprehensive programs.
Social justice
Equal access to education opportunities by male and female students from all population groups is essential for promoting quality of life.
Linking curriculum, environment and community
Health-promoting schools ensure a coordinated, comprehensive approach to learning by linking curriculum with the school ethos/environment and the community.
School community engagement
Health-promoting schools are inclusive - the whole school community of students, parents, staff and local agencies are engaged in school activities.
Respect for all
Active participation is based on respecting skills, values and experiences of parents, students, staff, and members of the school community.
Staff and parent well-being
Staff and parent well-being is integral to health-promoting school activity.
Active participation and empowerment
Individuals and the community are empowered through collaboration, participatory decision-making and personal action.
Partnerships
Partnerships result in action which is more effective, efficient and sustainable.
Health literacy
Addressing health literacy is an important component of a health-promoting school.
Diversity
The contribution of diverse cultures and groups is sought, welcomed, supported and valued.
