Health education

Health promotion and education initiatives are carried out in accordance with the recommendations of the World Health Organisation, as well as European and national guidelines and strategies on public health and the health of children and adolescents.

They are carried out in collaboration with the school community, local authorities and extracurricular organisations active in specific areas of health.

At an individual level

During routine medical examinations or health check-ups, pupils also receive practical, personalised advice on how to look after their health more effectively. These recommendations are tailored to their specific needs, based on any health issues identified.

At a collective level

School healthcare plays a vital role in health education by supporting pupils in adopting sustainable, health-promoting behaviours. Beyond medical care, it forms part of a comprehensive approach to prevention and awareness-raising within schools.

As such, school health and social care teams initiate and actively participate in health education and promotion initiatives. They work with pupils, in collaboration with teaching staff, to inform them, raise their awareness and help them develop healthy lifestyle habits suited to their age and needs.

Health education covers a wide range of topics, such as a balanced diet, a healthy lifestyle, respect for one’s own body, emotional and sexual health, mental wellbeing, and the prevention of risky behaviour, including the use of tobacco, alcohol or drugs.

In addition to these initiatives, information materials such as posters, leaflets and brochures are made available to pupils in the school health centre. On these occasions, health professionals provide further explanations and answer pupils’ questions.

Finally, pupils also have the opportunity to obtain further information from the school health service, which serves as a key resource for school health matters.