Evaluation of primary school whole school intervention in Midlands Region

Tender description

Background: The ACE (Activity Confidence Eating) Schools Programme was a whole school intervention, focused on promoting four main aspects of health within the school i.e. nutrition, physical activity, mental and dental health. The programme aimed to encourage schools to develop health promoting environments; making the healthy choice the easier choice for all in the school community. The ACE Schools Programme was rolled out across the 4 counties of the midlands: Laois, Offaly, Longford and Westmeath. As funding for the running of this programme has now come to an end it is planned to evaluate the programme. The Programme evaluation will be undertaken by a researcher: The researcher will carry out the following tasks: • Liaise with schools to provide quarterly newsletter; sustainability packs and awards • Inform and recruit schools for evaluation of programme • Complete and obtain ethical approval from HSE Research Ethics Committee for evaluation of programme • Collection of data through field work in schools, i.e. focus groups with staff, parents, pupils, e.g., ACE committee member • Collation of data and data analysis • Development of plain English summary of findings • Dissemination of findings to peers through conference presentation and peer reviewed article publication The researcher will liaise with WCDL and the Community Nutrition & Dietetic service on a regular basis with regards to progress with the project, at least quarterly. Person requirements: Essential • Degree in Human Nutrition & Dietetics from DIT/TCD or equivalent. • Experience in community dietetics and/or research in dietetics for young people. • Registered as self employed (evidence required) • Professional indemnity insurance (evidence required) • CORU Registered Dietitian (evidence required) • Car driver with full licence Timeframe for work completion: 2020 – 2023