Healthy Schools have healthy learning environments where children and youth are supported by their school community to make healthy lifestyle choices. The entire school community – students, school staff, parents and community partners - participates in this collaborative process. The focus is on health issues specific to the needs and concerns identified by the school community.
"Healthy learners are better learners." (Health Canada, 2002)
Students in Healthy Schools will:
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Be able to concentrate and learn better in class because their basic needs are met
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Develop greater confidence, motiviation, and self-esteem
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Have the capacity to make important health and life choices
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Have access to community services
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Be more likely to achieve better academic results
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Have strategies to interact effectively with peers
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Attend school more regularly
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Build their resume and earn community service hours
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Help to build a positive environment at the school
Healthy Schools is an integrated approach that gives students numerous opportunities to observe and learn positive health attitudes and behaviours. This approach promotes health within and beyond the classroom, encouraging values, skills and actions that foster the healthy development of students.
A comprehensive Healthy Schools approach includes these four foundations:
1. High-Quality Instruction and Programs
2. A Healthy Physical Environment
3. A Supportive Social Environment
4. Community Partnerships
With support from a York Region Public Health Nurse, a Healthy School champion leads the school community through the four steps of the Healthy Schools process:
1. Form a Healthy School committee
2. Identify strengths and needs of the school community
3. Develop and carry out an action plan
4. Evaluate and celebrate achievements
HOW TO GET STARTED
Elementary Schools
Secondary Schools
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