Gledswood Hills High School

Telephone02 4645 2800

EmailGledswoodhill-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Personal development, health and physical education

Personal development, health and physical education (PDHPE) is mandatory from Kindergarten to Year 10.

According to the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA), students are expected to participate in PDHPE for 300 hours per year in Years 7 to 10.

The PDHPE (Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education) Faculty at Gledswood Hills High School is a dynamic and enriching faculty. Students embark on a journey of self-discovery and holistic development, focusing on physical well-being, mental health, and personal growth. Our dedicated faculty members guide and support students as they navigate the complexities of health education.

PDHPE provides students with opportunities to explore issues that are likely to impact on the health, safety and wellbeing of themselves and others – now and in the future. Students also participate in challenging and enjoyable physical activity, improving their capacity to move with skill and confidence.

In Stage 4 (Years 7 and 8), students delve into the foundations of PDHPE, building their knowledge and understanding of physical health, mental well-being, and personal development. They engage with a variety of learning experiences that promote a healthy lifestyle, positive relationships, and the importance of making informed decisions. In addition, students explore a variety of physical activities developing skills in different contexts.Through interactive activities and assessments, students develop essential skills that contribute to their overall well-being.

As students progress to Stage 5 (Years 9 and 10), they explore a comprehensive range of topics in PDHPE, including respectful relationships, fitness, mental health, and interpersonal skills . By the end of Stage 5, students are equipped to respond to and address various health challenges, making informed choices that positively impact their lives. In addition, they explore a variety of physical activities developing their leadership and communication skills. They engage in critical analysis, reflection, and articulate their understanding of health concepts, adapting their approach based on context and societal influences.

What will students learn about in PDHPE?

Years 7 to 10 mandatory PDHPE provides students with both theory and practical lessons. The theory content focuses on important topics including: personal identity, the changing body, relationships, health issues (including mental health), drug safety, personal safety, minimising risk behaviour and the promotion of a balanced lifestyle. During practical lessons, students develop movement skills and tactical game play in a variety of sport applications. Students access our gymnasium, specialist outdoor sports fields (basketball, football, cricket nets) and our in-house gym when participating in practical lessons.

What will students learn to do?

We are committed to developing students’ emotional, social and physical health and the study of PDHPE subjects delivers and develops important skills and knowledge in this area. Students will learn some important skills that will enable them to take action to maintain their health and physical activity. These include skills in communicating, interacting, problem solving, decision-making, planning and moving.

The above video can be found on NESA's NSW Curriculum website.