ABSTRACT
Introduction The first part of the chapter clarifies what is meant by being healthy. It goes on to describe why the good health of learners is important in removing barriers to achievement. It refers the reader to the relevance of the National Healthy Schools Standard (NHSS), the Personal, Social and Health Education (PSHE) programme, the Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning (SEAL) and the Social, Emotional and Behavioural Skills (SEBS) strategies in supporting and developing learners’ health and well-being, which in turn helps to promote and enhance learning. Practical suggestions are offered as to how TAs can utilise existing strategies to support learners’ health and well-being, while acknowledging the valuable contributions TAs already make, in complementing the work of other health care professionals in schools. The second part of the chapter focuses on the concept and importance of learners staying safe. It emphasises TAs’ contributions to safeguarding the welfare of learners, and the importance of following the correct child protection procedures in schools. The chapter concludes with familiar practical strategies and approaches TAs can utilise in supporting and promoting the safety and welfare of learners.
