A Happy, Healthy Return to School
Heading off to university or back to school, pre-school or college can be an exciting time—but it can also come with challenges for children, young people, and their families.
As schools and universities fill with pupils and students after the summer break, it’s also a time when infections tend to spread. To help everyone stay healthy and make the most of the new academic year, local healthcare leaders are running the Frimley Back to School campaign. It offers essential information on:
- Mental wellbeing
- Healthy eating
- Vaccinations
- Asthma care
- When to stay home and when to seek help
Dr Alexandra Streeter de Diego, a GP and Clinical Lead for Frimley Healthier Together, explains:
“Starting or returning to school can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. With so many bugs going around, it can be tricky to know when to go to school, when to rest at home, or when to get medical help—especially for children with asthma. We want to make it easier for families by sharing clear, trusted advice in one place.”
Key Health Tips for the New School Year:
📌 Asthma Awareness
Children with asthma may be more vulnerable during the return to school, especially with respiratory infections circulating. A clear asthma action plan and knowing how to use inhalers properly are essential.
📌 Mental Wellbeing Matters
Feelings of anxiety, insecurity, or low mood are common during the back-to-school period. Support is available—encourage children to talk about how they feel.
📌 Stay Up-to-Date with Vaccinations
Vaccines help protect children from serious illnesses. Make sure your child is up to date with the school-age vaccination programme.
📌 Eat Well, Feel Well
Healthy eating is vital for growth, energy, and learning. Establishing good eating habits early makes a difference for life.
📌 Practice Good Hygiene
Simple steps like handwashing with soap and using tissues can prevent the spread of many common illnesses.
Dr Streeter de Diego adds:
“School should be challenging in the right ways—full of learning, growth and fun. By sharing what services are available and encouraging good habits, we can help our young people stay healthy and thrive.”
🔗 Find out more at frimley-healthiertogether.nhs.uk
📱 Or download the Healthier Together app for quick advice before contacting your GP or visiting A&E.
You can also follow the campaign on the following platforms:
Website: fhac-archive.frimley.icb.nhs.uk
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FrimleyHealthandCare/
Instagram: @frimleyhealthandcareics