Update on the impact of the Holistic Health Framework (HHF) in primary and secondary schools

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Darryl David, Ang Mo Kio GRC

Question

To ask the Minister for Education (a) whether he can provide an update on the impact of the Holistic Health Framework (HHF) in primary and secondary schools; (b) how has the HHF benefited students with weight management issues; and (c) how have students’ weight management matters been handled to avoid embarrassment or stigmatisation to those students.

Response

1.The Holistic Health Framework aims to improve the overall well-being of students and encourage them to lead an active and healthy lifestyle. All students are given the opportunity through Physical Education lessons to acquire knowledge and skills to lead a healthy lifestyle and sustain it even after they leave school.

2. Students outside the healthy range for physical growth are supported by the school to adopt healthier behaviours using strategies such as journaling, goal setting and action planning in physical activities and nutrition to bring about gradual improvement in their Body Mass Index (BMI). Schools also partner parents on developing healthy habits in their children. Students who are severely overweight or severely underweight are referred to Health Promotion Board’s Student Health Centre for medical screening and counselling.

3. In our survey with students, many reported practising the healthy habits they were taught. The proportion of students in our schools who were overweight remained stable in the past 10 years at between 11 and 13%, with the exception of the last two years when it increased to 16% due to the impact of COVID-19 on opportunities for physical activities. This proportion remains low compared to many other countries.

4. Our Character and Citizenship Education (CCE) curriculum equips students with an understanding of the developmental changes they will experience, as well as the knowledge and skills to build a positive body image and healthy self-esteem. Engagement of students on weight management matters is done with sensitivity and discretion, to support not just the building of an active lifestyle but also a positive self-image.