Health and Physical Education

Students learn about their physical and mental capabilities, and those of others, through participation in physical and theoretical activities. The activities are designed to improve physical fitness and skills, and promote self-esteem and a sense of wellbeing. Health and Physical Education provides students with the knowledge and skills to become healthy, active citizens. The areas of study include holistic health education, relationship education, nutrition and drug education, risk taking and decision making, mental health education and sports skills and fitness development.

Those classes involving practical activities are usually held outdoors, at off-site venues or in the Savio Centre. Year 7 to 10 Health and Physical Education is a core subject and is therefore compulsory for all students.

Sport Science

This is a two year course which can be chosen as an elective in Years 9 and/or 10. This is a highly academic, theory based subject which provides students with the opportunity to develop an understanding of the physiological and psychological aspects of sport. Area of study includes: body systems, psychology, drugs in sport, energy systems, sports nutrition, biomechanics, sports injuries and first-aid.

Athletic Development

This is an elective subject in Years 9 and/or 10 and is a highly practical course. Students who choose this subject need to be highly motivated and committed to improving their own individual sporting performance. Students will learn about the factors which affect sporting performance and will work to improve all components of fitness through a variety of training methods.

Adventure Recreation

The focus of this subject encompasses learning about self, others and the environment through a variety of theoretical, practical and experiential learning activities. Outdoor Education provides a context for students to develop self-reliance, interdependence and leadership in outdoor and natural environments, and to understand and explore human-nature relationships in theory and through self-reflection. Students are engaged in outdoor and adventurous activities that promote the development of an adventurous spirit with an emphasis on managing personal risks, conducting safe journeys in nature, and the value of life-long outdoor recreation for enjoyment, health and well-being, and understanding nature. Aspects of this course are inherently physically challenging and include exposure to the elements, some of these are in aquatic environments and being a competent swimmer is advantageous. There will also be a compulsory camp and some basic outdoor clothing will be required by students, including warm insulating layers such as thermal and fleece garments, a waterproof coat with hood and sturdy and durable footwear. This is a one year course that can be studied in either Year 9 or Year 10.