Establishing and implementing a health promoting school in rural Cambodia

Few studies have used a whole-of-school approach in implementing a health promoting schools (HPS) framework. Descriptions of how HPS is being implemented, particularly in low-resourced, developing countries, are limited. This study used an exploratory case study design to examine the planning and implementation of a HPS in a rural Cambodian village. Data were collected via observations of the school, school documentation, and interviews with stakeholders (n = 9). The data were analysed inductively as an iterative process, from initial coding, through to categorizing, leading to concept mapping and then identifying the emergent themes within the stages of school development and implementation of educational and health programming. The case study demonstrated how all six components of the HPS framework can be used to plan and implement a school in a rural village in a developing country. The key elements of implementation were building local and international partnerships, local leadership, and a culture of change and participation. These elements were used to establish a non-profit school that aimed to address the stated health and educational needs of local villagers. This case study adds to the limited evidence on the HPS components and implementation methods that are being applied in low-resourced, developing countries.