On this page you will be able to find out about the National (and local) Healthy Schools programme, receive useful healthy tips on preparing and eating food at home and making healthy packed lunches. There will be links from this page to other websites with the latest information about healthy eating and physical activity.

What is the National Healthy Schools programme?

This is a joint National programme set up by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES) and the Department for Health (DOH) in 1999. This programme is also known as ‘Healthy Schools'. Every local authority in the country and their Primary Care Trust (PCT) partner(s) are involved in this programme. On a local level Westminster runs a joint Healthy School programme, in partnership with Kensington and Chelsea, forming a Health Education partnership. This partnership consists of representatives from Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea education departments and representatives from Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea PCT.

What is a healthy school?

A healthy school is one that creates a safe, enjoyable, and productive learning environment for all of its stakeholders, taking a holistic approach to health, involving all members of the community - school staff, pupils, parents, community groups etc. in policy development and activities. In addition, a healthy school will involve all aspects of school life in promoting health and well being.

Healthy eating and physical activity

Healthy eating and physical activity forms a key aspect of schools achieving/retaining ‘Healthy school' status. The criteria for healthy eating and physical activity are:
• The school presents consistent, informed messages about healthy eating
• The whole school community is involved in revising menus in liaison with the school meals contractor
• The school provides, promotes and monitors healthier food at lunch and break times and in any breakfast club, where they are provided
• Pupils are encouraged to bring healthy snacks to school and advice is available as to what these could be
• Cool clean drinking water is provided and accessible at regular intervals
• The school curriculum includes education on healthier eating and basic food safety practices
• The school offers all pupils whatever their age or ability, a minimum of 2 hours physical activity per week
• The school encourages its staff, pupils, parents/carers and other adults to become involved in promoting physical activity and develop their skills abilities and understanding