School health
Each school in North Tyneside has access to a public health nurse. Public health nurses (previously called school nurses) are registered nurses who specialise in working with children and young people.
Public health nurses provide information, advice and support to children and young people, on a range of health issues including:
- Diet and nutrition (healthy eating)
- Physical activity
- Emotional well-being
- Puberty
- Smoking and substance (drugs) misuse
- Sexual health.
The health needs of the school population are continually reviewed and the public health teams work hard to create an environment that promotes healthy living.
As part of the national Child Health Promotion Programme all children have their height and weight measured when they first start school and again in year six (age 10-11). Any children that are identified as having weight issues that may affect their health can then be given the appropriate support. The information gathered also gives an indication of public health generally, and can be used to identify trends.
The public health teams work collaboratively and in partnership with other health professionals, educational authorities, social services and the voluntary sector to deliver the outcomes of national strategies including, Every Child Matters, National Service Framework for Children, Young People and Maternity Services and Choosing Health.
How can I access the service?
Public health nurses can be contacted through your child’s school or your local clinic.
Contact details
You can contact this service via your child’s school secretary OR via the school clerk at your nearest clinic:
Albion Road clinic: 0191 2196685
John Willie Sams Centre (Dudley): 0191 643 2866
Monkseaton clinic: 0191 2524264
Wallsend health centre: 0191 2205910
Balliol: 0191 200 7445
Useful websites
NHS choices - this NHS website contains a wealth of information on health issues affecting children and young people.
Youth health talk - this website contains a collection of interviews with young people about their experience of health and illness
North Tyneside Council - contains information on services available locally to young people and parents.
