About the child measurement programme
The child measurement programme is a routine health check which measures your child’s weight and height. It’s similar to other checks children have as they grow.
Parents and carers of eligible children will receive a letter explaining what will happen before the programme starts. If you don’t want your child to take part, you need to reply to the letter to let the team know.
Children have their measurements taken:
- when they start primary school
- in their final year of primary school
This helps the school nurse team check that children are growing and developing as expected for their age.
We understand that measuring height and weight can feel sensitive for some children and families. However, the information helps us understand children’s health in Jersey and supports the planning of local services to improve the health and wellbeing of all children.
Standardised child growth charts
A standard growth chart is used to check whether your child’s height and weight are in proportion for their age. The school nurse records the measurements on the chart and adds them to your child’s health record.
Some medical conditions or medicines can affect a child’s growth. If you have concerns, contact your GP or another health professional who can discuss this with you.
Next steps
If your child takes part, you will receive a letter with your child’s results. You’ll also receive a leaflet with information and advice to support your child’s health and wellbeing.
The school nurse team is available if you would like to discuss the results or need further support.
Additional information for parents
English language leaflets
Growing as expected for their age, sex and height
Below the expected weight for their age, sex and height
Above the expected weight for their age, sex and height
Portuguese language leaflets
A crescer conforme esperado para a sua idade, sexo e altura
Abaixo do intervalo de peso esperado para a sua idade, sexo e altura
Acima do intervalo de peso esperado para a sua idade, sexo e altura
How your data is collected and used
Your child’s measurements are added to their confidential electronic health record (EMIS). This record can be seen by your GP who may also share it with other appropriate health professionals, where it is necessary to do so.
Statistics Jersey receives anonymised data to produce Island-wide reports. This information is kept secure and confidential.
Individual results aren’t shared with:
- school staff
- other children
- other organisations
More information about how personal data is handled can be found in the Family Nursing and Home Care privacy notice.
gov.je