The CHERISH (CHampioning Efforts Resulting in Improved School Health) Junior Award in Singapore is modelled after the Health Promoting School concept of the World Health Organization. The Award framework incorporates the six components of WHO Western Pacific Regional Office’s Health Promoting School Framework: healthy school policy, physical environment, social environment, community links, action competence for healthy living and healthcare and promotion services. A pilot project was first carried out in 2009 with 15 preschools attaining the Award status in 2010. Next, the Award was made available to all preschools for a two years Award cycle. Participating preschools were given consultation and resources to support their implementation of this holistic health promoting school framework. A range of health programmes were also available for preschools to take on as part of the whole school approach. These preschools have access to a staff member in Health Promotion Board for any further assistance necessary for the Award. In addition to programmes for students, there are also programmes for the wellbeing of teachers and parents. Funding in the form of Grant on a co-funding basis is given to preschools who want to organise specific programmes. All participating schools needed to submit a report on their health promotion efforts. This was followed up with a validation visit and interview to determine their Award status. In 2012, a total of 94 preschools participated and all of them achieved the Award status.
Level of Education: Preschool, School
Lead Organisation: Health Promotion Board Singapore
