Schools and the education community feel increasingly under pressure to 'solve' a plethora of health and societal problems. Whenever there is public interest and media attention in a particular issue, there is often a suggestion that it be addressed in schools.
It is worth remembering, however, that these are extremely complex issues. While schools provide a unique opportunity to conduct health promotion activities, as they are the one setting where all children can be reached, the core business of schools is maximising student achievement of learning outcomes.
On the other hand, there is a significant body of research that suggests the enhancement of a child's health status improves their education achievements. There is also evidence that health outcomes can be improved by conducting comprehensive health education programs in schools.
Therefore, schools have a responsibility to provide students with opportunities to develop essential knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to enable them to make informed decisions about their health behaviours.
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© The State of Queensland (Department of Education, Training and Employment) 2005.