Health education in schools: In a state of good health?

Abstract

AbstractThe introduction of the National Curriculum represents one of the most significant developments in education for many years. This paper addresses the impact this development has had on health education in schools. It argues that health education has always been in search of status within the curriculum, but that the subject has been marginalised further following the introduction of the National Cutriculum. A number of concerns which have arisen following the curriculum changes are identified including concerns over curriculum time, resources, inservice training, initial teacher training, and the effective delivery of health education. The need for support for teachers from central government, regional health authorities and LEA’s in particular is highlighted. The paper concludes that health education is currently not in a good “state of good health” and that it must fight for its survival and growth in a rapidly changing educational climate.