Last month the team from the Centre for Population Health hosted ‘Growing up in Wales,’ a research and collaboration event held at Swansea Stadium. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders—including representatives from primary schools, local authorities, the Welsh Government, and charities—to explore key findings and priorities in early childhood research.
The afternoon was dedicated to shaping the health and wellbeing of children in Wales, with presentations on the latest findings from the Born in Wales study and the Health and Attainment of Pupils in Primary Education (HAPPEN) Network. Attendees also gained insights from the Born in Wales Nursery Network.
Discussions throughout the event focused on new findings from the HAPPEN and Born in Wales, the role of Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) in enhancing research approaches, and key insights from Welsh fathers on their children’s health and wellbeing as part of the Born in Wales study. Attendees also took part in an interactive workshop, using their experiences to shape future research and policy directions
Hope Jones, leading the Born in Wales study, said: “Born in Wales is dedicated to understanding the early experiences of children across Wales and how these shape their long-term health and wellbeing.
This event provided a valuable opportunity to share our latest findings and to engage with key stakeholders on the challenges and opportunities in early year’s research. By working together, we can use this evidence to inform policies and initiatives that truly support families and young children.”
Dr Michaela James, leading the HAPPEN Network, “HAPPEN has shown us how important it is to provide opportunities for children to tell us about their health. This has significant impact on the health of future generations and opportunities to inform policy and practice.
Schools can take part in the survey throughout the academic year to provide snapshots, track change, and evaluate practice. Having completed the survey, schools receive an individual school report aligned with the new curriculum, showing the overall picture of health and wellbeing in the school.
By working with schools, parents, and policymakers, we can use our research to create environments where children can thrive—both in and out of the classroom.”