Promotion and implementation of healthy practices in Maltese primary schools : benefits and challenges

Abstract

The main aim of this dissertation was to discover what approaches Year 4 class teachers, PSCD and PE teachers adopt in order to promote a healthy lifestyle in Maltese Primary Schools. Three schools from diverse institutions within the local educational system, including state, church and independent schools, contributed to this study. In order to respond the research questions, nine semistructured face-to-face interviews were conducted. Three interviews were carried out the Year 4 class teachers, another three with the PSCD teachers and another three with the PE teachers. The conclusion of the research led me into becoming aware that the schools and teachers alike tried to incorporate healthy practices through numerous activities such as in class cooking activities and even through cross-curricular lessons. The latter activities help in creating health literate individuals and also target the children’s holistic development. Health consciousness and promotional messages from the teachers and the school to children’s homes, has been a predominant tool. Teachers affirm that children can become health literate, be physically active and in turn lead a healthy lifestyle through the guidance of parents and guardians alike. Thus, the latter will help children develop into healthy future citizens.