Chat: Body image classes to be launched for schools

Plans for a new qualification to educate young people about the importance of a healthy body image have been announced by the YMCA.

Around two-thirds of people in the UK are unhappy with their bodies, according to a Government report.

Nearly one in six young people say they'd rather be thin than healthy.

The new qualification will help kids get a better understanding of what it means to be healthy and happy with their bodies.

It'll also show the techniques advertisers and magazines use to make celebs look 'perfect'.

Little Mix told Newsround they think it's important for kids to know how changing images with air brushing works.

Weightlifter Zoe Smith has been bullied about the way she looks.

"I chose to focus on my sport and do what I was best at," she said.

"One of the tips I would say to being confident is to get involved in a sport or enrol in a team or something. Body confidence and competitiveness - you just feel much better about yourself I think. So give it a go!"

It's hoped the course will begin next year in schools that choose to use it.

We asked you what you thought, check out some of them below.

Your comments

"This seems like a really good idea. It's important for kids to understand how many images in the media are false."

Chiara, Bournemouth, England

"I think its very important to show people how it works since lots of people are self conscious about their body and trying to be like celebs and models."

Sophie, Sandhurst, England

"Great to see Little Mix are supporting such a good campaign. I think it would be great to see a qualification like this in schools and colleges as this is an issue that really affects young people. "

Darcey, Bournemouth, England

"In PSHCE we are learning about body image and how we should be pleased with what we look like. I think this it is important because it makes us learn that everyone is just that little bit different and that is what makes us all unique!"

Orla, Manchester, England

"I think that it should be taught because it can help people to be more confident about themselves."

Alice, Bristol, England

"I think that it's shocking because people shouldn't be teaching children that your body has to look good, its fine to look how you want to look."

Alana, Gloucestershire, England

"I think they should be taught in schools because children should learn how to look after their image and clothes."

Martha, Northampton, England

"I think they should be launched because it would be a great boost for some people. In my school every one is different religions, nationalities, shapes and sizes and some people get upset because they look different but that just makes them special."

Antonia, London, England

"I think no, because people might then be bullied because they are different to other people."

Ben, Nottingham, England

"I think it is a great idea, I know a lot of people who are self-conscious because of the way that they look."

Natasha, Manchester, England

"I think we should get body image classes to decrease the number of girls/boys who are dieting and unhappy."

Casey, Essex, England

"I think that people should be happy with who they are and should never copy others."

Haider, Bradford, England