2013—2016
One of CDI’s initial programmes was a whole school approach to improving child health and wellbeing and was called ‘The Healthy Schools Programme.’ This programme ran from 2008-2011. The evaluation found that while changes were being seen in a schools’ approach to improving the health and wellbeing of children, there were no statistically significant changes. As a result, the programme wound down in the schools. Trinity (who undertook the evaluation) carried out a follow up study with the same schools (both intervention and control groups) involved in the programme. Results show that there was an improvement in the intervention children’s Body Mass Index (BMI) and their peer relationships.
Based on these follow up results, CDI met with schools in Tallaght West to discuss these findings and determine how to move forward. Schools had a desire to continue improving the health and wellbeing of children but had limited resources. Discussions were held with the HSE Health Promotion school’s coordinator programme to discuss the possibilities of collaborative working.
2008—2013
The Healthy Schools Programme was implemented to improve children’s health and wellbeing and increase access to primary care services. The Healthy Schools Evaluation Report particularly noted the process aspects which can support and mitigate against the development of a whole school approach.
The Report found that there is a need for a strategic and whole-school approach to planning school-based health programmes – one that is inclusive of the views of the entire school community i.e., staff, parents, children, and services that are part of the schools functioning.
The Report also recommended that a National Framework for Health Promoting Schools involving the Departments of Education and Health to be developed.
Evaluation Report and Policy Brief
Video: https://vimeo.com/81506759