Screening

Every year in England, school children in Reception and Year 6 have their height and weight checked at school as part of the National Child Measurement Programme, which is a nationally mandated public health programme. Height and weight measurements are used to calculate weight status and is part of the government’s approach to tackling child obesity.  This information is also used to help understand trends in child weight and provide better health services for children in Haringey. The checks are carried out by registered school nurses or trained health care providers. Children are measured fully clothed, except for their coats and shoes, in a private space away from other pupils. The programme is delivered in a COVID-safe way, in line with the school and local authority’s safety control measures and national guidance for schools and healthcare.

The wellbeing of children and families is very important. Individual results are not shared with your child or their school. The height and weight information are shared only with you in the parent or carer feedback letter. It is your choice if you share the information with your child. The emotional impact of the NCMP has been researched and studies show that body image, self-esteem, weight-related teasing, and restrictive eating behaviours do not change as a result of being measured or receiving feedback. If you are concerned about your child’s growth, weight, body image or eating patterns, you can seek further support from your school nurse.