Health promotion and students’ well-being in secondary schools in Catalonia

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to analyse the views of different members of the school community regarding the health and well-being of young people and health promotion in schools. Design: Case study design was used, in which the Personal Wellbeing Index–School Children’s Questionnaire was administered to young people, and focus groups were held with other members of the school community (students, teachers, families, tutors and stakeholders). Setting: Five secondary schools in Catalonia (Spain). Method: Sequential triangulation between methods. Quantitative methods evaluated the students’ perception of health and well-being, while qualitative methods described school community perceptions of health promotion in school. Results: The results revealed a generally good perception of health among young people. Reported perceptions of health were lower among students in the later years of secondary education. Findings suggest that health promotion actions do not always translate into healthy behaviours among young people. Lack of resources and school overcrowding are key contextual factors influencing the promotion of health. Conclusion: Findings advance knowledge related to health education during the secondary years of schooling. In addition, they provide professionals with relevant data for developing and implementing health and well-being actions to include as part of a holistic curriculum.