Health competencies in primary teacher training: A new approach to health-related prevention in schools

The following article proposes the structure of a new certificate study programme "Health competencies in primary teacher training" (Gesundheitskompetenz in der LehrerInnenbildung, GiL), a compulsory part of primary teacher training in the coming years, which should be seen as an important step towards a healthy school for everyone. Actual studies confirm that teachers' and students' health is jeopardized in various ways. In this context the new study programme for the new certificate has been developed. Here, issues are discussed, relating to organizational, structural, pedagogical topics in relation to health education. Students' and teachers 'health problems can be resolved through preventive measures and how the healthy school can influence school development in general. The competences, which students or teachers from primary teacher training acquire in this certificate study programme, enhance not only their own health but also their pupils' health as well al family health in general.