The Health Promoting School

Book excerpt: Under the UK Labour Government (1997-2001) there have been clear signs of a willingness to revive the 'pastoral' curriculum in schools and to develop stronger links between the health and eductaion sectors. This book, based on empirical work undertaken in England and throughout Europe, explores such government policy and in particular the development of the health promoting school. The authors provide a detailed examination of the health promoting school movement in Europe, including application of concepts, policies, research and practice to the National Healthy Schools Standards in England. A whole school approach to the promotion of health, well-being and educational achievement is taken throughout the book. This approach includes analysis of such subjects and issues as: personal, social and health education; citizenship; environmental education; democracy; self-esteem; social capital and empowerment. The Health Promoting School: Policy, Research and Practice is a timely publication that will serve to inform the practice of teachers in schools and higher education, school management, student teachers and health professionals, health promotion and public health specialists.