A Novel Survey for Assessing Health‐Promoting School Practices and Capacity: Validation and Adaptability to Physical Activity

ABSTRACT Background Understanding current practice is crucial for implementing Health Promoting Schools (HPS) and Whole School Approaches to Physical Activity (WSA‐PA). This study validated two survey tools to assess HPS and WSA‐PA implementation, respectively. Methods Content validity was established via literature review and expert and target group consultations. Teachers at Danish schools for vulnerable youth (ages 16–25) completed surveys in fall 2023. Structural validity was assessed using confirmatory factor analysis, construct validity via the Multitrait‐Multimethod (MTMM) approach, and reliability with Cronbach's Alpha, Omega H, and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient. Results A total of 921 staff at 78 schools participated (72% response rate). The HPS scale had 24 items, while the WSA‐PA had 21 across various subfactors, such as school ethos, health services, and resources. Statistical analyses demonstrated good structural validity (e.g., RMSEA = 0.023 for HPS, RMSEA = 0.043 for WSA‐PA) and acceptable reliability. MTMM confirmed both convergent and discriminant validity. Implications for School Health Policy, Practice, and Equity These tools can help schools monitor and improve HPS and WSA‐PA implementation, supporting equity and informing national policies. Conclusion The validated tools can guide schools in enhancing HPS and WSA‐PA practices. Further research should refine these instruments.