Health Impacts of Education a review November 2008 Claire Higgins, Teresa Lavin & Owen Metcalfe

Health Impacts of Education – facts and figures (2006/7 ) Compulsory school attendance ceases at age 16 across the island of Ireland but many young people remain in education well beyond this age. NI: 81.9% of year olds in full time education 46.0% of 21> year olds in third level education ROI: 86.0% of 17 year olds in full time education 45.0% of 20 year olds in third level education Access to and participation in education are prerequisites to achieving the health benefits that education can provide. While educational attainment has increased substantially for the population as a whole, some groups continue to experience poorer educational outcomes.

Health Impacts of Education There are strong links between education and health. Greater levels of education can lead to: Improved chances of finding secure, well paid employment, with subsequent health benefits. More opportunities for social development and enhanced social skills, with positive impacts for both the individual and wider community, and subsequently, for general health. Greater likelihood of developing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours conducive to good health.

Conclusion Education can contribute to increased health inequalities by perpetuating cycles of inter-generational and socioeconomic disadvantage. Four areas have been identified which merit particular attention in pursuit of a healthier island: Addressing inequalities; A lifecourse perspective; Cross jurisdictional learning; and Cooperation between education and health.