Abstract:
A cross-sectional study with a qualitative component was carried out to assess the
knowledge of the school teacher regarding the School Health, Programme and School
Health Promotion, to describe health promoting activities in schools and to identify
constraints faced by schoolteachers when implementing the programme in the Negombo
MOH area. Knowledge regarding concepts of School Health Promotion was adequate in the
majority. Statistically significant associations were seen between knowledge and age, years
of service, type of school and educational qualifications. Some concepts of School Health
Promotion in th4 practical context were poorly understood by the teachers. Majority of
schools with good facilities provide more opportunities for health promotional activities
than schools with poor facilities. However, community participation is more in schools with
poor facilities. Constraints faced by school teachers during implementation of the School
Health Programme are time, resources, staff support, community participation and
coordination between health and education sectors. Poor transport and communication
problems also emerged as constraining factors. Knowledge of the school teacher regarding
School health should be improved and resources for schools should be provided to promote
health
