Institute of Education London

Taking Stock: A rapid review of the National Child Measurement Programme

Research Summary

The National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP) is a monitoring programme launched in 2005 which collects annual data on the height and weight of all children in English state primary and middle schools, in reception class and Year 6. The programme has been supported by a national and regional infrastructure. In recent years local areas have been encouraged to provide feedback to parents on their child's results, and proactive follow-up of those who are not a healthy weight. This six week review was commissioned by the Department of Health to draw together existing and new data on the delivery of the programme, and to suggest any changes that would help the programme to make an effective transition into the new public health system proposed for England.

Methods

A multi-method approach was used. This included documentary analysis; interviews with key stakeholders at national, regional and local level; and an online survey of professionals involved in the NCMP delivery across England (over 200 responses were received).