The health promoting schools (HPS) approach is a way of
thinking and working where health is valued by the school
community and considered holistically throughout all areas of
the school with the involvement of the whole school
community.
Based on the principles of the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion (Ottawa, 1986), the concept was initiated by the World Health Organisation and has a strong following internationally, nationally and locally (link to Qld history). It is a holistic approach to health promotion and health education in schools. International experience demonstrates that this is far more effective than traditional, curriculum-based health education models. The HPS approach recognises that effective health education encompasses supportive school environments (both physical and social), policy development, community action, and personal skill and knowledge development. Enabling school communities to act in ways that promote the well-being of school community members can have many benefits.
The HPS approach is one which considers the broad (physical, emotional and social) health needs of all school community members. These health needs are addressed collaboratively and comprehensively using a combination of strategies linked to three essential and interrelated components:
curriculum, teaching and learning
school organisation, ethos and environment
schools partnerships and services
These three interrelated components make up the health promoting schools framework. The HPS approach is implemented by following the health promoting schools process.
How can my school become a health promoting school? Click here.
Try our quiz to help determine if your school community is already working in a 'health promoting' way.
World Health Organisation defines HPS as:
"a place where all members of the school community work together to provide students with integrated and positive experiences and structures which promote and protect their health. This includes both the formal and informal curricula in health, the creation of a safe and healthy school environment, the provision of appropriate health services and the involvement of the family and wider community in the effort to promote health."
