Health and Physical Education

Building a Foundation for a Healthy, Active Lifestyle 

At Harrisdale Senior High School, the Health and Physical Education (HPE) program is designed to empower students to lead healthy and active lives while developing essential life skills in physical, mental, and social wellbeing. Our comprehensive curriculum offers students the opportunity to engage in a wide range of physical activities, explore health-related topics, and develop a lifelong commitment to fitness and wellness. 

 

Health and Physical Education Curriculum for Years 7 - 10 

In Years 7 to 10, students are introduced to a broad range of Health and Physical Education subjects that build the foundation for a healthy lifestyle. The core curriculum includes: 

• Health Education: Students explore key health topics such as nutrition, mental and emotional well-being, relationships, and the impact of lifestyle choices on health. They develop the skills to make informed decisions that support a healthy and balanced life. 

• Physical Education: Students participate in a variety of physical activities that promote fitness, teamwork, and individual skill development. From team sports to individual activities, Physical Education helps students improve their physical fitness and motor skills while learning the values of fair play, discipline, and perseverance. 

In addition to these core subjects, Year 9 and 10 students have the opportunity to choose from the following elective subjects to extend their learning: 

• Health and Sport Science: This subject provides students with an in-depth understanding of the science behind physical activity, health, and fitness. Students study topics such as anatomy, physiology, and the impact of exercise on the body, preparing them for future studies in health and sport-related fields. 

• Recreational Outdoor Pursuits: Students in this elective explore a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, orienteering, and kayaking. This subject encourages students to develop outdoor survival skills, environmental awareness, and a love for recreational activities that promote physical health. 

 

Specialist Programs in Cricket and Volleyball

For students with a passion for sport, Harrisdale Senior High School offers specialist programs in Cricket and Volleyball. These programs are designed for students who want to develop advanced skills in their chosen sport, both on and off the field. Through targeted coaching, practice, and competition, students in these programs improve their technical skills, teamwork, and sportsmanship, gaining valuable experience that can support future athletic endeavours. 

 

Health and Physical Education in Years 11 and 12 

In Senior School, the Health and Physical Education curriculum offers more specialised courses designed to cater to students interested in pursuing careers in health, fitness, and recreation. The following subjects are available in Years 11 and 12: 

• Health Education (ATAR and General): Students in this course engage in a deeper exploration of health issues, including nutrition, mental health, and the social determinants of health. They also learn about health promotion and how to apply health education in real-world settings. 

• Physical Education (ATAR and General): This course allows students to develop their skills in physical activities while learning about biomechanics, sports psychology, and physical fitness. The focus is on both the theoretical and practical aspects of physical education, preparing students for higher education or careers in sport and fitness. 

• Certificate II in Sport Coaching (Year 11): This vocational course gives students the skills and knowledge necessary to coach sports at a variety of levels. Students learn about coaching techniques, sports ethics, and athlete management, gaining practical experience that can lead to certification as a sports coach. 

• Certificate II in Sport and Recreation (Year 12): Building on the skills developed in Certificate II Sport Coaching, this course provides students with the knowledge and experience needed to work in the sport and recreation industry. It covers areas such as event management, recreation planning, and facility management, preparing students for careers in the sporting or recreation sector. 

 

Why Study Health and Physical Education? 

Studying Health and Physical Education at Harrisdale Senior High School offers numerous benefits: 

• Physical Fitness: Students improve their physical health, strength, and endurance through regular participation in sport and physical activity. 

• Mental Wellbeing: Health education focuses on mental and emotional health, teaching students how to cope with stress, build resilience, and maintain a balanced lifestyle. 

• Career Pathways: The skills developed in HPE provide a foundation for careers in sport, fitness, coaching, recreation management, health promotion, and more. 

• Lifelong Skills: Students learn important life skills such as teamwork, leadership, communication, and decision-making that benefit them both personally and professionally. 

 

State-of-the-Art Facilities and Resources 

Harrisdale Senior High School boasts excellent facilities to support the learning and development of students in Health and Physical Education: 

• Modern Gymnasium: Equipped with a variety of fitness equipment and space for physical activities. 

• Sports Fields: Our extensive outdoor spaces cater to a wide range of team sports and recreational activities. 

• Outdoor Pursuits Equipment: Our specialized outdoor recreation equipment supports activities such as camping, hiking, and water sports. 

• Health and Fitness Labs: Students have access to state-of-the-art technology to study the science of health and fitness. 

 

Extracurricular Opportunities 

Students also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, including: 

• Inter-School Competitions: Representing Harrisdale Senior High School in local and regional competitions. 

• Fitness Clubs: After-school fitness programs where students can continue to develop their physical fitness and wellbeing. 

• Sporting Events: Students can take part in special sporting events and tournaments, gaining exposure to competitive sports environments. 

 

Join Our Health and Physical Education Community 

Choosing to study Health and Physical Education at Harrisdale Senior High School means becoming part of a vibrant and active school community. Our dedicated and passionate teachers are committed to helping students develop both their physical and mental well-being, equipping them with the skills they need to succeed in school and beyond. 

For more information about our Health and Physical Education courses and programs, please contact the HPE Department. We look forward to supporting your health, fitness, and sporting aspirations!