Years 11-12 (Stage 6)
PDHPE
Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) is an integrated area of study that provides for the intellectual, social, emotional, physical and spiritual development of students. It involves students learning about and practising ways of maintaining active, healthy lifestyles and improving their health status. It is also concerned with social and scientific understandings about movement, which lead to enhanced movement potential and appreciation of movement in their lives.
In order for students to enhance personal growth and to make a significant contribution to the well being of others, this syllabus focuses on the health of individuals and communities and the factors that influence movement skill and physical activity levels.
This syllabus focuses on a social view of health where the principles of diversity, social justice and supportive environments are fundamental aspects of health. The examination of individual, family and community values and beliefs and the sociocultural and physical environments in which we live provides an explanation for health status and sustainable solutions for better health.
This syllabus also includes a detailed study of movement and physical activity. The emphasis is on understanding how the body moves and the sociocultural influences that regulate movement. Scientific aspects to be studied include anatomy, physiology, biomechanics and skill acquisition. Students also think critically about aspects of history, economics, gender and media as they impact on patterns of participation in physical activity and the ways that movement is valued. These areas of study prepare students to be informed participants in movement culture, skilled, intelligent performers and analysts of movement.
The syllabus has been designed for all students in Years 11 and 12 who have an interest in this area. While there are no formal prerequisites for this course, it is assumed that students have undertaken a minimum 300 hour course based on the PDHPE Years 7–10 Syllabus. The Stage 6 PDHPE syllabus builds upon this experience by introducing students to more detailed study and higher order skills.
The study of PDHPE also supports students as they develop into young adults. The syllabus encourages personal growth, the enhancement of well being and the development of the individual’s capacity to take a productive role in society.