Growth and reach
By the end of 2024, 3,799 school locations (44% of all schools in the Netherlands) were working with the whole-school Healthy School approach. The original target of one third was achieved as early as 2021 and was later increased to 40%, which was also achieved. On average, 34% of participating schools belong to the group at increased risk of developing an unhealthy lifestyle.
Support
Demand for incentive schemes grew each year and often exceeded the available budget. Evaluation research shows that schools are seeing noticeable effects among their pupils and students. The support provided by approximately 275 Healthy School advisors through the municipal public health services is appreciated by schools and has proven crucial to the success of the approach.
Professional development and inspiration
In 2024, a new online environment was launched: Jouw.gezondeschool.nl, where education and healthcare professionals can take training courses and attend webinars. In addition, the renewed Gezondeschool.nl website provides information and inspiration, including through practical stories from other schools.
Collaboration and knowledge sharing
Collaboration with knowledge and thematic institutes has been strengthened, including through joint annual plans and training programmes. Meetings, materials, and stories have been shared with partners such as Gezonde Kinderopvang, JOGG, and Gezonde Basisschool voor de Toekomst. There has also been collaboration with the Welbevinden op School programme, which has resulted in practical tools and training courses.
Exploring the future
In preparation for a new multi-year plan, dialogue sessions were held with stakeholders from education, policy, research, and practice, including pupils and students.
The public summary of the Healthy School Final Evaluation is available for download here.