The development of the Irish Network of Health Promoting Schools

Abstract

Traces developments in the Irish Network of Health Promoting Schools since joining the European network in 1992. The Irish Network is managed by a steering committee and supported jointly by the Department of Education and Science and the Department of Health and Children. The emergence of a framework that facilitates planning and progress reviews is outlined. The work of 40 schools is acknowledged together with the part played by principals, Health Promoting school co‐ordinators, parents and pupils. The role of the National Support Centre is described and reference is made to how progress has been evaluated. Future plans include the integration of the health‐promoting school concept with developments to include social, personal and health education as part of the core curriculum in all schools.