{"id":9685,"date":"2025-09-11T12:19:19","date_gmt":"2025-09-11T10:19:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/unescochair-ghe.org\/?p=9685"},"modified":"2026-01-06T09:23:10","modified_gmt":"2026-01-06T08:23:10","slug":"schools4health-policy-brief-health-promoting-schools-as-a-lever-for-equity-in-education","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/unescochair-ghe.org\/fa\/schools4health-policy-brief-health-promoting-schools-as-a-lever-for-equity-in-education\/","title":{"rendered":"Schools4Health Policy Brief: Health Promoting Schools as a lever for equity in education"},"content":{"rendered":"

Source: Schools4Health<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

How can we reduce health and learning disparities that put millions of children and young people at a disadvantage? The answer may begin in schools\u2014but not with schools alone. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The latest policy brief from the Schools4Health project makes a strong case for why Health Promoting Schools (HPS) are a vital part of creating more equitable education systems. It highlights how embedding health, inclusion and wellbeing across school environments\u2014not just within isolated lessons\u2014can improve both student outcomes and overall school climates. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A call for \u201cproportionate universalism\u201d <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The brief argues for a shift toward \u201cproportionate universalism\u201d: an approach that combines universal support for all schools with tailored resources for those with the highest need. Schools in underserved communities often face greater health and learning challenges, but they are also powerful agents of change\u2014if given the tools and support. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

From practice to policy <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Drawing on examples from Finland, Scotland, Greece, Spain, and others, the policy brief illustrates how real-world implementation of the HPS approach can promote inclusion and equity. Whether through school-wide campaigns, social-emotional learning, healthier food environments or better coordination with local services, the impact is clear: when students feel safe, supported, and well, they\u2019re better equipped to learn and succeed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What\u2019s needed next? <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

To unlock the full potential of the HPS model, the brief outlines a number of practical recommendations for governments, school leaders, and local authorities. These include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n